How do I become a hairdressing teacher?

Becoming a hairdressing teacher or cosmetology instructor can be a lucrative career choice. According to educationportal.com, hairdressing teachers make an average of £32,500 annually and career growth has remained steady within the field. Hairdressing teacher requirements differ by location. However, there are some general requirements and criteria that must be met before you are able to teach cosmetology in most locations.

Ensure that you meet specific criteria before applying for a position as a hairdressing teacher. For instance, in most locations you must be at least 18 years old and have had a cosmetology license for six months or more. If you have had a cosmetology license for less than five years, you will need at least 800 hours of provable work experience in most locations. A notarised letter with company letterhead from an employer and pay stubs for two years or more from a licensed hair salon are generally accepted documentation of work experience. This information should be forwarded to the local authority (state) board of cosmetology of the area in which you are seeking employment.

Become a certified hairdressing teacher. Some colleges offer a cosmetology certificate programme that will prepare you to become a hairdressing teacher. Cosmetology instruction alone does not teach specific lessons geared toward teaching, such as creating lesson plans, grading students and record keeping. You also will learn classroom management and communication skills that increase your ability to succeed as a teacher. Cosmetology certification will make you a more educated and viable candidate for the position of hairdressing teacher. Check local and online colleges for certificate options in the hairdressing field.

Send high school and beauty school transcripts, employment verification, licensure information and proof of certification to the state board of cosmetology in your location. If you are applying to teach hairdressing in a location other than the one in which you were originally licensed, you will need to become licensed in that location. Some locations have reciprocity, which allows you to just apply for a license in the new location and pay a small fee. Other locations may require you to complete additional hours to work as a cosmetologist or hairdressing teacher.

Prepare a resume geared towards teaching and including your hairdressing experience. This might include volunteering at school, lesson plan creation and time awards or certifications. It is also useful to have a portfolio containing your work, references and other pertinent information. You can create a professional looking portfolio by putting information in plastic sleeves in a 2 to 3 inch binder. Present this material during interviews with potential employers.

Research the school to which you are applying to become a hairdressing teacher prior to going for an interview. Review information such as dress codes, rules of conduct and history. By having this information, you will appear knowledgeable and interested in the specific company to which you are applying. You also should prepare a list of questions to ask your potential employer to ensure that the instructor position is right for you. Present your portfolio at the interview to display your credentials and to help you to secure the job.