HJ's Apprentice Week runs from February 9th to February 15th, 2026. This annual event coincides with National Apprenticeship Week. Its aim is to provide support for apprentices within the hairdressing industry.
The week offers a comprehensive content schedule designed for both new apprentices and salon owners. Topics range from career kickstarting and kitbag essentials to diverse career paths beyond salon work. This approach acknowledges the broad spectrum of opportunities available in hairdressing.
Content on February 11th addresses neurodiversity and its role in attracting apprentices. It also tackles the 'do's and don'ts' of apprenticeship success. The focus on practical advice and industry insights suggests a desire to demystify the apprenticeship journey for all involved.
Mental health support for apprentices is highlighted on February 12th. This includes advice on managing anxiety and learning from past mistakes. Hearing directly from experienced hairdressers and industry leaders like Cos Sakkas, who shares insights on attracting new talent on February 13th, offers valuable perspectives.
The schedule also explores what apprentices actually want from their employers and training. Discussions on February 15th compare in-salon versus college-based training. This signals a crucial conversation about optimising training structures for future industry professionals.
While HJ's commitment to apprentice development is clear, the schedule raises a question: how will the industry ensure salon owners actively implement the advice given? The success of Apprentice Week depends on translating information into tangible support and opportunities for the next generation of stylists.
