Level 2 Nail apprentice Millie Williams from Kat’s Claws, takes us on a journey of the steps, opportunities and inspirations that have led her to her dream career doing what she loves.
I found a career I love
I worked in a range of different job roles when I left school, from working in retail to working in a call centre – trying to find a job I wanted to do.
I knew what I didn’t want to do, but it took me a while to realise what I did want to do! I was working in Aldi when my friend suggested I “do nails for living”. I didn’t know what she meant, but that’s when I realised my dream was to be a nail technician.
It had never crossed my mind. When she said it, everything clicked. I always loved having my nails done and enjoyed doing my own, but never thought it was an option.
There is so much to beauty
When I first signed up for my apprenticeship, I originally wanted to do the beauty therapy course. My manager said to try the nails course first, and progress onto the beauty course after.
I’m keen to learn about all aspects of beauty such as lash and brow treatments. Having those skills will give me the option to offer a variety of packages which will attract a wider clientele.
Even if you have the same client every three weeks, they always want something different. It keeps the job fresh and I get to be creative. With beauty there is so much you can do. Having that variety keeps it interesting.
It doesn’t matter how old you are
Get your qualifications done. Having evidence of your learning shows employers that you are keen and interested in that area of work.
It doesn’t matter how old you are. You could be in your sixties and do an apprenticeship. Everyone is learning. I was already working in the salon when I decided to do an apprenticeship and couldn’t wait to do it. Why wouldn’t you – it’s free training.
I just like the fact that I can become fully qualified in something – knowing I have something official to say I can do it.
My colleagues are inspiring
I have worked at Kat’s Claws for nearly six years and absolutely love it – it doesn’t feel like a job. All the girls I’ve worked with have inspired me. The technicians who used to work here, Faye and Jojo – I was in awe of their work. They used to do my nails and they always looked amazing.
Isabelle who is currently studying her Level 2 Nails is smashing the course. It’s nice to have someone in the same boat as me.
Danielle, Alison, Kat and myself have been a team since the beginning. Kat has taught me all the ins and outs of working in a salon. She has been so supportive and flexible and makes coming to work easy.
Turn your passion into a career and study a Level 2 Apprenticeship in Nails.
