Demand for training services at beauty salons has increased in Queensland
Training salons at TAFE campuses in the state of Queensland, Australia, saw an influx of new clients during the past fiscal year. In some areas, the number of service bookings rose by more than 70%, according to ABC News Australia.
Deb Blow, Executive Director of Education and Training at TAFE Queensland, attributed the increased demand to the cost-of-living crisis. Clients are drawn to the lower prices for services provided by student hairdressers. For example, Denise Kelly paid $20 for a wash and blowout at a training salon on the Gold Coast, whereas a similar service at a professional salon can cost over $70.
Kelly was initially concerned about whether the student would be able to perform the procedure properly and dry her hair. However, she was satisfied with the result, and the money she saved, she said, allows her to travel more after retirement.
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Services provided by barber apprentices are also in demand. Simon Zanketta, an IT staff member at TAFE Queensland who works one floor above the training salon on the Gold Coast, has become a regular customer. He noted that the $10 price was the main draw for him, although going to a student does require a certain amount of trust.
The increase in the number of visitors is also beneficial for the future hairstylists. Instructor Naomi Diamond explained that a greater flow of clients helps students practice speed and precision in a busy salon environment. Second-year student Ariel Jeffery added that working alongside other student hairdressers allows them to learn from one another.
In addition to technical skills, students learn how to communicate with clients in the training salon. According to Diamond, it’s important for hairdressers not only to speak but also to listen carefully to clients. First-year student Chevi Loford noted that working in a busy salon helps develop communication skills even before they start working with scissors.
