Apprenticeships made simple for learners
New to apprenticeships, or not sure what to expect? Cedars Training Academy is here to guide you every step of the way, covering how it works, what support is available, and how to make the most of every opportunity in hair, beauty and holistic therapy.
A real job, with real training
You'll work towards a recognised qualification while getting paid, and gaining the hands-on client experience salons and clinics are looking for. It's a great way to:
- Get hands-on experience behind the chair or in the treatment room
- Build a career in hair, beauty or holistic therapy
- Earn a wage while you train
- Avoid student debt
You can become an apprentice if:
- You're 16 or over by the end of the summer holidays
- You're living in England
- You're not in full-time education
- You're working (or about to start working) in a salon, clinic or business that supports your training
Apprenticeships are open to everyone, whether you're just leaving school, returning to work, or looking to retrain or change careers at any age. There's no upper age limit.
Apprenticeships by discipline
Not sure which apprenticeship is right for you? Explore current opportunities by discipline:
Looking for a shorter, more focused route instead? See our short courses, from Indian Head Massage to Gua Sha Facial.
Three parts, all built into your programme
English and Maths
If you don't already have your GCSEs or an equivalent qualification, these are built in.
On-the-Job Training
Learning practical skills in your salon or clinic, plus time spent learning with your training provider at our Gloucester academy, in person, online, or both.
End-Point Assessment
A final, practical test of your knowledge, skills and behaviours, usually a live client service, portfolio review or professional discussion.
Between 8 months and 3 years, depending on your level
A Level 2 programme is typically shorter, while a Level 3 qualification, like our hairdressing or beauty therapy apprenticeships, usually runs around 22 months. Your exact timeline will be explained during your induction.
Yes, you're an employee from day one
You're paid for your working hours and for the time you spend training. From April 2026, the National Minimum Wage for apprentices is:
| Who it applies to | Hourly rate |
|---|---|
| Under 18, or in year one of your apprenticeship at any age | £8.00 |
| 18–20, completed your first year | £10.85 |
| 21 or over, completed your first year | £12.71 |
Many salons and clinics pay more than the minimum. You can check you're being paid correctly at any time using the free National Minimum Wage calculator on checkyourpay.campaign.gov.uk.
- Paid holiday, at least 28 days a year, pro-rata
- Sick leave
- Access to staff benefits, e.g. a pension scheme
- Any additional support you need to succeed
We're here every step of the way
- Tutors to guide you through your course
- Access to learning materials and online platforms
- Help with English and maths, if needed
- Regular progress reviews to keep your learning on track
- Wellbeing and safeguarding support, including mental health advice
- Support with reasonable adjustments if you have a disability or learning difficulty
If you're a care leaver or need extra financial help, let us know, as we may be able to support you with bursaries or other help.
What you could benefit from
Free Training
No tuition fees to pay.
A Regular Wage
At least the National Minimum Wage for apprentices, and many employers pay more.
Care Leavers' Bursary
For eligible apprentices under 25, paid directly to you in three instalments across your first year.
Referral Reward
Get a £50 voucher for every friend you refer to Cedars Training Academy.
Support with travel, meals or kit costs is also available through some employers or local schemes.
Your apprenticeship may be shortened
If you've done similar training before or have experience in the industry, your apprenticeship may be shortened or adapted to reflect what you already know. We'll check this at the start through an initial assessment, and agree any changes with you and your employer before your training plan is finalised.
What happens when you finish
Many of our apprentices stay on with their salon or clinic or move on to the next level of training. Once you've finished your apprenticeship and passed your assessment, you'll:
- Receive a nationally recognised, VTCT-accredited certificate
- Have valuable client-facing experience under your belt
- Be ready to progress, into full-time work, a promotion, or Level 3 or 4 training
Frequently asked questions
Do apprentices pay tax?
Yes, in the same way as any other employee. If your earnings are above the tax-free personal allowance, Income Tax and National Insurance are deducted automatically through PAYE, and you'll get a payslip showing what's been taken out.
Is there an upper age limit for apprenticeships?
No, there's no upper age limit. Apprenticeships are open to anyone aged 16 or over, whether you're starting your first job or retraining later in life.
Can I do an apprenticeship without GCSEs?
Yes. If you don't already hold GCSEs (or an equivalent) in English and maths, these are usually built into your apprenticeship at no extra cost, so you can work towards them alongside your main qualification.
What happens if I don't pass my end-point assessment?
You'll usually be given the chance to resit. Your training provider will support you to prepare, and in most cases you'll only need to retake the specific part you didn't pass rather than the whole apprenticeship.
Can I switch employer during my apprenticeship?
It's possible, though not automatic, and you'll need to find a new salon, clinic or employer willing to take on the remainder of your training, and your provider will help manage the transfer of your apprenticeship agreement.
Will an apprenticeship affect my benefits?
Because you're paid a wage as an apprentice, it may affect means-tested benefits you or your household receive. It's worth checking with Citizens Advice or Jobcentre Plus before you start, particularly if you're claiming Universal Credit.
Straight from GOV.UK
- ↗apprenticeships.gov.uk/apprentices : GOV.UK's official "Become an apprentice" hub
- ↗Apprentice pay & future salary : pay rates and future earnings
- ↗Your rights : apprentice rights and where to get support
- ↗gov.uk/become-apprentice : GOV.UK's overview of how apprenticeships work
- ↗checkyourpay.campaign.gov.uk : check you're being paid the correct minimum wage
- ↗Care Leavers' Bursary policy : official GOV.UK policy page
Ready to start your apprenticeship?
Browse our current apprenticeship vacancies and courses, or get in touch and we'll help you find the right fit.
