Mum-of-two thrives as a hairdressing apprentice with Realise

The 29-year-old, mum-of-two from Lancashire, once thought it was too late for her to start an apprenticeship. Today she is proving that you can learn at any age, whilst still being a fantastic mum.

Wanting more – and going for it

Laura Withington jumped at the chance to become a hairdressing apprentice after not feeling fulfilled in her previous job.

“Before starting my apprenticeship, I worked as a Clerk in a Solicitor’s office. But I wasn’t happy with where I was in my life work-wise and I didn’t have the drive for it.

I wanted more, but I was also worried to start an apprenticeship at 29 years of age with two young children depending on me.

However, I just went for it and applied to become a level 2 hairdressing apprentice at Evolve in Lancashire. I was successful!

A new daily routine

I now start each day by ensuring the salon and stations are clean, checking appointments for the day, and getting prepared for the first appointments. If I do not have a client in, I will help my colleagues or tidy up the salon.

The people who work in and visit our salon are great, there is never a dull day or negative moment.

Making others feel good on the inside and the outside.

Doing someone’s hair gives them a lift and makes them feel amazing.

Hairdressing can help with mental health too. The conversations we have with our clients go a long way and whilst they are with us, they can just sit back and relax.

Support from Realise

Alongside my role in the salon, I am completing a Level 2 Hair Professional Apprenticeship with Realise.

My Realise trainer Holly has been amazing, teaching me in and out of work hours. If there has been anything I have struggled with or not fully understood, she is always there to help.

She goes through the things I find hardest, such as theory, and breaks them down so that I can fully grasp them. She gives me that push I need to power through my tasks and always understands if I need a minute.

She is just the best!

Finding ways to relax outside of work

Outside of work, my house is manic with a 5-year-old, a 2-year-old, and a dog!

My partner also works overseas for 9 months out of the year, so everything is very stressful but as soon as I go for a walk, I instantly relax – it is very therapeutic.

Laura’s advice to others hesitating when it comes to apprenticeships…

Do it and do not let anything set you back.

I feel more positive, I get excited about each new day, the clients I work with, and I have an amazing and uplifting team.

If you think you can’t because you are not young enough or have kids, DON’T just go for it. You can achieve what you put your mind to.

It is the best thing I could have done!”

In addition, Laura’s Realise trainer Holly has been hugely impressed by Laura throughout her apprenticeship, telling Realise: “Working with Laura has been a pleasure. She is so keen to learn and a natural with hair.”