CV for a Hairdressing Apprentice with No Experience (UK)
A hairdressing apprenticeship CV is unlike most other entry-level applications. Salon owners are not looking for technical hair skills — they know you do not have them yet. They are looking for personality, presentation, genuine passion for the craft, and the reliability that makes an apprentice worth investing in.
The Level 2 NVQ pathway: understand what you are applying for
Most hairdressing apprenticeships in the UK lead to a Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Hairdressing (or the equivalent Trailblazer Standard: Hairdressing Professional). The apprenticeship typically lasts 12-18 months and combines on-the-job training at the salon with off-the-job learning at a college or training provider.
What employers are hiring for is not technical ability — they will teach you that. They are hiring for:
- Attitude and willingness to learn
- Reliability and professionalism
- A genuine interest in hair, beauty, and the industry
- Communication skills with clients
Your CV needs to evidence all four.
Personal statement example
"Enthusiastic and creative individual with a strong passion for hairdressing and an ambition to build a career in the salon industry. Practised cutting, colouring, and styling techniques on friends and family for three years, and regularly follow industry professionals on social media to stay current with trends. Presentable, punctual, and committed to delivering excellent client experiences. Seeking a hairdressing apprenticeship where I can work towards my Level 2 NVQ Diploma while contributing to a professional salon environment from day one."
How to show passion and practical interest
Salon owners hire apprentices partly on gut feel — does this person actually love hair? The more specific you can be about your genuine interest, the better.
On your CV:
- Reference specific techniques you have practised (balayage, French plaits, blowouts, colour application)
- Name stylists or educators you follow or admire (session stylists, platform artists, Instagram educators)
- Mention any beauty or hairdressing courses you have completed — even online ones (Wella education, L'Oreal Professionnel webinars, VTCT-accredited short courses)
- Include any relevant work experience: helping at a salon, model calls, college demonstrations, volunteering at a charity makeover event
Transferable skills from other roles
Even with no salon experience, you have relevant skills. Draw on them explicitly.
From retail or customer service:
"Regularly engaged with members of the public in a fast-paced retail environment, managing queries professionally and maintaining a positive, approachable manner — directly applicable to client communication in a salon setting."
From any role involving physical dexterity or creative work:
"Developed manual dexterity and attention to fine detail through [art, craft, beauty treatments, nail work] — skills that translate directly to scissor work and precision cutting techniques."
From any role demonstrating reliability:
"Maintained 100% attendance across a 6-month part-time role at [employer], demonstrating the punctuality and reliability that a fast-paced salon environment requires."
Education section for a hairdressing apprentice CV
Hairdressing apprenticeship providers and salons do not have strict academic entry requirements. GCSE grades matter less than attitude. That said:
- List your GCSEs with grades — especially English and Maths (grade 4/C or above is usually required by training providers)
- Include any art or design qualifications — they support the creative framing of your application
- Include any beauty, hair, or make-up courses however short — even a one-day workshop
Portfolio: should you include one?
Yes — if you have one. A basic portfolio of photographs showing work on models (friends, family) demonstrates practical interest and gives the salon owner something concrete to look at. It does not need to be professional photography.
On your CV: "Portfolio of work available on request" or include a link to an Instagram or Pinterest board.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need any qualifications to apply for a hairdressing apprenticeship?
Most require GCSE English and Maths at grade 4/C or above. Some training providers have Level 1 hairdressing or beauty courses that can qualify you if your grades are lower.
Should I contact salons directly rather than applying online?
Yes — many hairdressing apprenticeship opportunities are filled by candidates who walk in, introduce themselves, and leave a CV. Arrive looking well-presented, ask to speak to the salon manager, and express your interest directly. A confident, enthusiastic in-person introduction often carries more weight than an online application.
What should I wear to drop off my CV or attend an interview?
Present yourself as you would for a day in the salon: clean, professional, and polished. Your appearance is directly relevant to the role — salon owners are assessing whether you fit the professional image of their business.