Apprentices - are they becoming extinct?

By Emily Ciardiello

If we listen carefully, we can almost hear them...the eager young apprentice, stepping into the salon ecosystem for the first time. Wide-eyed, full of promise, and ready to learn…

But these once-abundant creatures are becoming increasingly rare. Once thriving in salons across the country, apprentices are now at risk of becoming an endangered species.

After attending Industry Day (an Australian Hairdressing Council event), it has become even more apparent that a concerning number of young people are choosing not to enter an apprenticeship in hairdressing or if they have, they soon disappear never to be found again.

Other worrying stats? Formal training in salons is happening a little under 60% of the time and only 5% are receiving more than 5 hours a week. Many apprentices aren’t receiving weekly training at all. When they do, they often describe it as too slow and repetitive. Like animals in captivity, their natural curiosity and drive are nullified when they’re not stimulated and challenged.

In the wild, apprentices thrive from hands-on experience and dynamic learning. Their favourite part of the day? Working on clients - feeling the excitement of real-life transformation and this is closely followed by training and learning new things.

But there’s a new predator in the ecosystem: fear.

As both creators and consumers on social media, many apprentices are terrified of being judged by their peers. Instead of exploring, experimenting, and boldly sharing their creations, they hide in the shadows - fearful of attack from critics.

What can we, as the guardians of this habitat, do to help this species not only survive, but flourish?

1. Rethink training: Apprentices need stimulating, engaging, and fastpaced learning. Repetition without purpose dampens their spirit. Let’s keep training relevant, exciting, and reflective of the world they have observed.

2. Create safe spaces: Social media should be a place to showcase, not shame. Support apprentices publicly, encourage them to share, and celebrate their growth without fear.

3. Show them the way: Young apprentices need clear pathways. Share success stories of those who started in the same chair and are now thriving as salon owners, educators, and/or international artists.

4. Value them as future leaders: Apprentices aren’t just spare hands to fold towels. They’re the next generation of creators, innovators, and industry voices.

5. Celebrate daily wins: A quick “well done” after a blow-dry, a shoutout on Instagram, or a simple thank you can build confidence and loyalty stronger than any pay check.

6. Connect with them in their natural habitat: One wise salon leader shared that they invite their apprentices to take turns blow-drying her hair each day. It’s a moment of close connection - like grooming rituals seen in the wild - allowing apprentices to bond with their leader while honing their skills. Another leader flips this dynamic, gently blow-drying the apprentice’s hair instead - a nurturing gesture that builds trust and reminds them they’re part of the same pack.

We all need to understand what this species needs to thrive: purpose, flexibility, connection, and recognition. Without these vital elements, they’ll continue to disappear, seeking greener pastures in other industries or leaving altogether.

At Industry Day, I felt the collective heartbeat of an industry that deeply cares. But if we don’t take urgent action, we risk losing these incredible young talents forever.

Imagine a future where apprentices thrive - bold, creative, and confident, moving freely and joyfully through the salon floor. A future where more salons buzz with energy, mentorship, and innovation, rather than echoing with the silence of empty chairs.

We have the power to restore balance. To protect, nurture, and empower these magnificent creatures.

Because if we don’t - who will foil or hold the scissors next? AI? I doubt it.

It’s time to act now before apprentices become extinct and then eventually, the industry.

As always, be kind during your grind - and remember, we’re here to thrive, not just survive.

@foilmefoils @foilme.thedressinggownceo www.foilme.com.au