Caerphilly-based Captiva Spa is one of many Welsh businesses seeing the benefits of professional collaboration after offering work placements to learners.
Through their partnership with Wales鈥� leading training provider, 樱桃福利视频, Captiva Spa has opened its doors to young apprentices aged 16 to 19, offering them real-world experience and the chance to develop practical, on-the-job skills.
Sarah Bruton, Managing Director at Captiva Spa, decided to offer placements in response to the gap between education and employment readiness, something that she believed a placement would bridge.
鈥淲e all know there鈥檚 a gap between what鈥檚 taught in school and what鈥檚 needed in the workplace, especially in the hair and beauty sector,鈥� Sarah said. 鈥淩ather than complaining about that gap, we thought 鈥榳hy not be part of the solution?鈥欌€�
While there were initial concerns about the additional commitments needed to support young learners, Sarah quickly found those fears to be unfounded.
鈥淲e expected it to be time-consuming and potentially challenging. But in reality, the learners were incredibly quick to adapt. They brought a real energy to the salon and very quickly became valued members of the team.鈥�
And the impact has extended well beyond just having an extra pair of hands.
鈥淸The learners] ask questions, they challenge us to think differently, and that鈥檚 helped us improve our processes. They鈥檙e also much more aware of social media and emerging trends, which helps keep the business fresh and appealing to younger audiences.鈥�
Captiva Spa has also seen how valuable these placements are in developing future talent. Many of the learners go on to stay with the business, becoming long-term employees. One standout success is the salon鈥檚 current deputy manager, who started as a learner on placement.
鈥淲e鈥檝e seen learners grow massively in just a few months. Their communication improves, their confidence grows, and they become genuine assets to the business.鈥�
And the benefits aren鈥檛 just one-sided. While learners gain invaluable workplace experience, the business gains a clearer understanding of its own development needs.
鈥淗aving learners on board has made us think more strategically about staff training and mentoring. It鈥檚 influenced how we approach workforce development across the whole team.鈥�
The placement programme has also helped foster a culture of mentorship at Captiva Spa; something Sarah sees as vital not just for learners, but for all staff whether they鈥檝e been with the company 10 weeks or 10 years.
鈥淚t鈥檚 made us better at supporting each other. Our team now thrives on sharing knowledge, and that culture of learning benefits everyone.鈥�
Asked what advice Sarah would give to other businesses considering whether to offer placement she said: 鈥淒on鈥檛 focus on what the learners don鈥檛 know yet. Focus on what
you can teach them. You鈥檒l find they bring just as much to your business as you give to them.鈥�
Captiva Spa鈥檚 story is just one example of how work-based learning can benefit both learners and employers alike. 樱桃福利视频 works with businesses across Wales to help young people gain meaningful experiences.
樱桃福利视频 is encouraging more employers to sign its Employer Pledge 鈥� a commitment to support Jobs Growth Wales+ learners aged 16 to 19 through real-world work placements.
By signing the pledge, businesses can play a vital role in developing young talent, shaping future professionals, and bringing fresh perspectives into their teams. In turn, learners gain confidence, resilience, and invaluable skills that can鈥檛 be taught in the classroom.
For more information about how to get involved and support the next generation head听here.
Through their partnership with Wales鈥� leading training provider, 樱桃福利视频, Captiva Spa has opened its doors to young apprentices aged 16 to 19, offering them real-world experience and the chance to develop practical, on-the-job skills.
Sarah Bruton, Managing Director at Captiva Spa, decided to offer placements in response to the gap between education and employment readiness, something that she believed a placement would bridge.
鈥淲e all know there鈥檚 a gap between what鈥檚 taught in school and what鈥檚 needed in the workplace, especially in the hair and beauty sector,鈥� Sarah said. 鈥淩ather than complaining about that gap, we thought 鈥榳hy not be part of the solution?鈥欌€�
While there were initial concerns about the additional commitments needed to support young learners, Sarah quickly found those fears to be unfounded.
鈥淲e expected it to be time-consuming and potentially challenging. But in reality, the learners were incredibly quick to adapt. They brought a real energy to the salon and very quickly became valued members of the team.鈥�
And the impact has extended well beyond just having an extra pair of hands.
鈥淸The learners] ask questions, they challenge us to think differently, and that鈥檚 helped us improve our processes. They鈥檙e also much more aware of social media and emerging trends, which helps keep the business fresh and appealing to younger audiences.鈥�
Captiva Spa has also seen how valuable these placements are in developing future talent. Many of the learners go on to stay with the business, becoming long-term employees. One standout success is the salon鈥檚 current deputy manager, who started as a learner on placement.
鈥淲e鈥檝e seen learners grow massively in just a few months. Their communication improves, their confidence grows, and they become genuine assets to the business.鈥�
And the benefits aren鈥檛 just one-sided. While learners gain invaluable workplace experience, the business gains a clearer understanding of its own development needs.
鈥淗aving learners on board has made us think more strategically about staff training and mentoring. It鈥檚 influenced how we approach workforce development across the whole team.鈥�
The placement programme has also helped foster a culture of mentorship at Captiva Spa; something Sarah sees as vital not just for learners, but for all staff whether they鈥檝e been with the company 10 weeks or 10 years.
鈥淚t鈥檚 made us better at supporting each other. Our team now thrives on sharing knowledge, and that culture of learning benefits everyone.鈥�
Asked what advice Sarah would give to other businesses considering whether to offer placement she said: 鈥淒on鈥檛 focus on what the learners don鈥檛 know yet. Focus on what
you can teach them. You鈥檒l find they bring just as much to your business as you give to them.鈥�
Captiva Spa鈥檚 story is just one example of how work-based learning can benefit both learners and employers alike. 樱桃福利视频 works with businesses across Wales to help young people gain meaningful experiences.
樱桃福利视频 is encouraging more employers to sign its Employer Pledge – a commitment to support Jobs Growth Wales+ learners aged 16 to 19 through real-world work placements.
By signing the pledge, businesses can play a vital role in developing young talent, shaping future professionals, and bringing fresh perspectives into their teams. In turn, learners gain confidence, resilience, and invaluable skills that can鈥檛 be taught in the classroom.
For more information about how to get involved and support the next generation head here.
]]>The Minister was shown the Jobs Growth Wales + programme at 樱桃福利视频’s Ocean Park House, meeting learners from hair and beauty, IT, and childcare routes.
The building has recently had a revamp to accommodate significant growth on the programme, welcoming learners previously at 樱桃福利视频鈥檚 Hadfield Road skills centre with a brand-new salon space and classrooms.
Jobs Growth Wales+ is a Welsh Government training and development programme for 16-19 year olds that gives young people the skills, qualifications and experience needed to get a job or further training It鈥檚 a very flexible programme designed around the individual; learner. As well as honing keys skills in numeracy and literacy, learners are supported to progress in their chosen field, moving onto apprenticeships, college, work placements or entrepreneurship.
During the visit, Jack Sargeant spoke with learners at 樱桃福利视频’s breakfast club. The club is open to all JGW+ learners and provides an array of food and drinks not just in the morning but throughout the day – an important offering to ensure everyone has access to a nutritious meal and are able to work on a full stomach.
While chatting with the Minister, learners commented on their increased independence compared to school and the relaxed and supportive setting of their centre.
Jack Sargeant was then shown the new salon and given a demonstration of the learners at work.
Many of the learners are currently preparing for the move on to placement. Delivery manager Charlotte Simms explained that 樱桃福利视频 has a particularly good relationship with local businesses, especially in the hair and beauty sector, with former learners who have now established themselves in a career offering opportunities to those currently on programme.
The Minister was then shown the centre’s new IT and childcare classrooms and given insight into the progression routes available to the young people working towards their qualifications.
Speaking of the visit, 樱桃福利视频’s Managing Director Richard Spear, said: “It was great to welcome Jack Sargeant MS to 樱桃福利视频 and for him to see first-hand the hugely positive impact of the JGW+ programme on learners working hard towards their qualifications.
“For us, Jobs Growth Wales + is as much a wellbeing programme as it is educational and skills, and we are very grateful to the Minister and the Welsh Government for their support. 樱桃福利视频 is all about improving lives through learning and Jobs Growth Wales + offers young people the skills, confidence and support they need to succeed both personally and professionally.”
]]>This cutting-edge facility, located within Cardiff鈥檚 Ocean Park House, includes a fully equipped hair studio, a dedicated nail and beauty treatment studio, and multiple classrooms. Together, these spaces are designed to create a real-life salon environment where learners can refine their skills and prepare for successful careers in the industry.听
The H&B Academy recently celebrated its soft launch with a festive gathering of partners and local businesses from related fields. The event offered attendees a sneak peek at the Academy鈥檚 facilities and a chance to witness its vision in action. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, setting a promising tone for its official opening.听
To delve deeper into what makes the Hair & Beauty Academy unique, we spoke with Charlotte Sims, the salon鈥檚 Delivery Manager, about the vision, goals, and impact of this transformative initiative.听
The Hair and Beauty Academy is a vital part of the JGW+ skills centre. Learners enrolled in hair, beauty and barbering courses through JGW+ will have access to high-quality, industry-standard salons where they can gain experience and insight not only from their tutors but also their peers. Apprenticeship learners, who are further along in their professional journey, will also benefit from fortnightly workshops with their assessors.听
Charlotte emphasised the importance of working in a salon setting for building both confidence and competence: 鈥淥ur learners start on Entry Level and Level 1 courses,鈥� she said. 鈥淏eginning their training in a professional salon environment helps them develop practical skills and theoretical knowledge, making them work-ready.听听
鈥淭hey practice everything from shampooing and blow-drying to nails, facials, makeup, and more. As they progress to salon placements, we work closely with their employers to ensure their training is tailored to meet the needs of the business.鈥�听
What sets the H&B Academy apart is its personable approach to training. The focus is not only on technical skills but also on employability and personal development. 鈥淲e鈥檝e created a welcoming, supportive environment where learners can relax, make new friends, and build their confidence,鈥� Charlotte explained. 鈥淲e also emphasise the importance of health and wellbeing, as this directly impacts their success in the workplace.鈥�听
The H&B Academy鈥檚 robust support system includes World of Work advisors, learner coaches, counselling services, and Essential Skills development tutors to ensure the underpinning of basic skills like numeracy, communication and digital literacy. These resources ensure that learners are not only developing their craft but also gaining the tools to thrive professionally and personally.听
While the practical setting provides invaluable experience, it also presents challenges. According to Charlotte, building confidence among learners is one of the most significant hurdles: 鈥淪ometimes, learners are hesitant to practice their skills on one another,鈥� she said.
鈥淥ur tutors play a crucial role in guiding and encouraging them every step of the way.鈥�听
However, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. 鈥淚t鈥檚 incredibly fulfilling to see learners grow and excel,鈥� Charlotte said. 鈥淢any of our students come to us after struggling in traditional academic settings. By tapping into their creativity and providing hands-on learning opportunities, we鈥檙e often able to unlock their potential. Some have even gone on to own their own salons, barbershops, and beauty businesses.鈥�听
Despite only launching this month, the H&B Academy has ambitious goals for the coming year. It aims to expand its cohort of learners and deepen partnerships with local salons to provide more placement opportunities.听听
鈥淲e want to work closely with employers to ensure our training aligns with their needs. By doing so, we鈥檙e not only supporting our learners but also contributing to the success of local businesses,鈥� Charlotte explained.听
The H&B Academy is also keen to find new talent. For those considering a career in hair and beauty, Charlotte鈥檚 advice is simple. She said: 鈥淚f you鈥檙e passionate about this field, don鈥檛 be afraid of hard work. Every task you do, no matter how small, contributes to building your future. From arranging product displays to making clients a cup of tea, these moments teach you valuable people skills and business acumen. Most importantly, have fun. Happy, friendly professionals are what clients want to see, so let your passion shine through in everything you do.鈥�听
If you would like to learn more about JGW+ or if you鈥檙e an employer looking to offer a placement to a future stylist or beautician, contact us.
]]>WoW Hair and Beauty are one of the few UK鈥檚 fully LGBTQ+ inclusive and gender-neutral salons. They don鈥檛 just care about hair and beauty, but mental health and empowerment too.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a young person who wants to start their career in the hair industry. You will have the opportunity to complete an Employability qualification with 樱桃福利视频 as part of the Jobs Growth Wales+ programme with a potential progression onto an Apprenticeship.
]]>A career in the Beauty sector is really rewarding. It feels so good to be able to use your creative flair to make clients feel happy and confident every day. Our Jobs Growth Wales+ programmes provide the essential hands-on experience that鈥檚 needed to master beauty treatments and techniques.
]]>There鈥檚 much more to the job of听Hairdresser than knowing the latest trends for bobs, bangs and blowouts. Though听a keen sense of style听obviously helps, other听qualities are just听as听important!听听听
听
Are you a natural listener who works well with their hands? Can you be thorough and pay attention to detail?听Can you demonstrate fab customer skills and provide service with a smile?听Are you someone who keeps their cool in stressful situations?听If this sounds like you,听then you听already听have the core skill set needed,听for a life of customers, curlers and colouring!听听
听
A Hairdresser must be personable and friendly, as the customer must trust you at all stages of the process. At 樱桃福利视频,听there鈥檚 a fully-equipped听Traineeship听Salon for budding Barbers and Hairdressers听to learn a wide range of skills, all under the watchful eye of our industry-experienced tutors.听听
听
Once you鈥檝e got to grips with the basics,听you can progress onto an听Apprenticeship in a听professional salon,听where听you鈥檒l learn the essentials of the hair-styling game听and how they can be developed, with your own personal flair!听Course units听include:听Style and finish, Set and dress hair, Plait and twist hair, Colour and lighten hair,听plus,听Temporarily attach hair to enhance a style.
Further modules,听like Advise and consult with clients, Fulfil salon reception duties or Develop and maintain your effectiveness at work, will help make you a fully-rounded asset to any hairdressing business!听
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樱桃福利视频 Training values the experience of learning – that鈥檚 engaging and captivating – and encourages all to aspire to reach their goals. Suitable candidates even get the chance to participate in top competitions and shows, such as Salon Cymru, the Eisteddfod and Hair & Beauty Wales.听听
听
It might take time for you听to听become the next Nicky Clarke or Vidal Sassoon, but the journey starts听here听and you could be making waves before you know it!
If you鈥檙e aged 16-18,听take a look at our Hairdressing & Barbering Traineeship听programme.听
If you feel that you鈥檙e salon ready, see our Hairdressing & Barbering Apprenticeships.
]]>So, what is the ReAct scheme?
The ReAct scheme, is quite simply a support package that helps people gain new skills, improving their chances of returning to work after redundancy. The package includes a 拢1,500 grant and support to help remove any barriers for vocational training .
Are you eligible?
You qualify for ReAct support if you:
What is the application process?
Additional Re樱桃福利视频 support
Under the ReAct Scheme you may also be entitled to help with the following whilst training:
ReAct for employers
The ReAct programme also benefits businesses, by providing a wage contribution of up to 拢3,000 towards the costs of employing an *eligible person for 25 hours a week or more.
Further eligibility information:
Applications must be made before the new recruit starts work and the job must:
Want to find out more? Get in touch!
If you are an individual, or business interested in the ReAct scheme, 樱桃福利视频 is here to help! 樱桃福利视频 accepts ReAct funding for many of our commercial courses, from Management to Beauty, we can help you update your skills to return to work.
As the employer, you have the power to choose the most suitable training provider! 樱桃福利视频 delivers dynamic training designed to meet the needs of your business!
To find out more or to speak to our Commercial Courses Co-ordinator, call 029 2046 4727 or email info@acttraining.org.uk
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