Louth Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB) hairdressing apprentices recently celebrated their achievements at the inaugural LMETB capstone event, which was held at the Oriel Centre Dundalk Gaol in Dundalk, Co Louth.
The National Hairdressing Apprenticeship had its first intake in 2021, so the apprentices are the first cohort to qualify with a QQI Level 6 in hairdressing in the LMETB region and other education centres.
The National Hairdressing Apprenticeship was developed to deliver a nationally recognised standard in hairdressing in Ireland, which is responsive to the needs of the sector through robust engagement and liaison with industry and education experts nationwide. Prior to its establishment, there was no nationally-recognised qualification for hairdressers in Ireland.
Validated by QQI in September 2020, the programme is a minimum of three years in duration, and intends to provide the industry with some stimulus in recruiting new apprentices to a career in hairdressing, with a nationally-recognised qualification.
Offered by a number of education centres around the country, it is aimed at school leavers who have completed their Leaving Certificate; early school leavers who have at least two years full-time experience in a salon; or mature applicants who wish to pursue a career in hairdressing or change their profession.
The recent Dundalk event highlighted the talents of eight apprentices, who have spent three years honing their craft. It showcased their e-portfolios and mood boards, illustrating the inspiration behind their themes and creative journeys.
Each apprentice designed a hair look, and the capstone included a professional photoshoot featuring the apprentices’ models, who took part in a catwalk show on the night.
The event was hosted by Fiona Gainfort and Caroline Corrigan, who form part of the management team. Also in attendance was director of further education and training at LMETB Sadie Ward McDermott, who commended the apprentices’ accomplishments, along with the innovative programme that nurtured their talent.
“To our apprentices, we couldn’t be prouder of your hard work, imagination and perseverance,” said Gainfort. “The incredible creations showcased tonight exemplify your talent, and the future of hairdressing in our region is undeniably bright.”
Other education centres that have recently held capstone events to mark the first cohort of National Hairdressing Apprenticeship graduates are Cork College of FET, Douglas Street Campus and Limerick and Clare ETB’s College of FET, Mulgrave Street Campus.
