Project Description

Opening Opportunities in the Beauty and Hair Sector 

Local Fife hairdresser, Halo Salon, recently worked with the DYW Coordinator at Levenmouth Academy to help support a S4 pupil who had been struggling to find a work experience placement in the hair and beauty sector.  

Halo Salon is a small independent Hairdressing salon in Glenrothes owned by Fife local Shelley Hall. The initial placement was for one day a week for a four-week period however due to the success of the first month it was extended by a further four weeks.  

Shelley was really positive about the placement as she found having the pupil there a great help, the young person was capable of being trusted to do more than she had originally thought and found the experience positive for her business. Shelley is keen to be involved in future work placements because she recognises the importance of young people being able to experience what it’s like to be in a working environment. 

The pupil helped with various tasks including tidying, making refreshments, shampooing & conditioning hair, and learned the basics of the blow dry on real clients. This allowed her to gain practical skills directly related to the hairdressing industry as well as soft skills in people relationships. The placement helped give the S4 pupil a much clearer understanding of what is involved in the industry and gave insight into the pathways into this type of career.  

This was a great success for both the pupil and Shelley with the placement being extended in the first instance and then converting to a few paid shifts for the pupil on completion of the placement. The Levenmouth pupil has now applied to study the VTCT Level 1 Hairdressing at Fife College. 

When asked what was gained from the placement and how this helped develop her skills, the pupil said, ‘I have really enjoyed working at Shelley’s salon. I have learned that this is definitely something I want to pursue as a career. I have learned how to wash hair, blow dry and some extension techniques but also I have learned about working with the public and in a close team culture.   

I enjoyed the team, the girls in the salon have been really welcoming and helpful. I have also really enjoyed learning new skills and watching the different things done in the salon.  I had an amazing experience and the only thing I would change is how often I was at placement. I wish I could have gone more than once a week.’