Hairdressing – International Skill Insights

What is the TVET Model in place that helps raise standards amongst students in these countries?

Country: France

Country: China

France uses a dual education system whereby students alternate between practical training in salons and theoretical education in schools. Apprenticeships are centralised, with qualifications like CAP and BP ensuring high standards. The focus is on mastering core techniques and developing creativity in cutting and colouring. 

What makes it unique? France emphasises craftsmanship and the artistic nature of hairdressing. Students are encouraged to personalise styles and provide excellent client service.

China’s TVET system focuses on rapid, large-scale training programs, with a strong emphasis on technology and modern beauty tools. Students gain experience in real-world salons, using the latest equipment and techniques. 

What makes it unique? The Chinese government plays a key role in providing funding and ensuring standardised training. The system is designed to produce many skilled professionals quickly, integrating innovation and global trends into the curriculum. 

How do these countries work with industry to develop their TVET systems?

Dual System and Industry Partnerships: 

France’s TVET system combines apprenticeships in salons and classroom learning, ensuring students gain hands-on experience

employer collaboration: Beauty schools work closely with salons and employers to align curricula with industry needs

national certification: Qualifications like CAP and BP are developed with industry input to maintain high standards

professional associations: Groups like the National Union of Hairdressers guide training content and ensure industry relevance.

Public / Private partnerships and innovation:

industry feedback: China incorporates industry input into curriculum development, ensuring training reflects current trends

government partnerships: The Modern Apprenticeship Program connects educational institutions with beauty chains to provide real-world training

technology integration: Collaboration with international brands ensures students are trained with the latest tools and techniques

standardised certification: National qualifications ensure consistency across the country, meeting industry demands.

In terms of training and developing WorldSkills Competitors – what do those high performing countries do differently?

The main reason high performing countries achieve excellence at international competitions is due to their dedication to training and skills development. Having an in-depth knowledge of the marking scheme (understanding where points are won and lost) as well as having the necessary infrastructure and resources to support training is also crucial. Key elements include:

specialist trainers that lead on certain aspects of the Hairdressing WorldSkills Technical Description

dedicated training centres of excellence where the students will train (often full-time)

a commitment to benchmarking their students against other high performing nations around the world.

Insights we can share where countries have showcased excellence within their skill:

Country: France

Country: China

When working with live models in competitions, the outcomes can vary significantly due to the natural differences in each model’s hair. A key strategy for problem-solving in these situations is to train and practice on a diverse range of models with different hair types. This includes working with various textures such as dense or sparse hair and understanding how to adapt techniques to suit different hair characteristics. France is particularly known for excelling in this area, as they dedicate significant time and effort to training for competitions. French competitors often ensure they work with a variety of hair types throughout their preparation, allowing them to adapt quickly and perform consistently well in high-pressure situations. This level of preparation helps them handle the unpredictable nature of live competitions and deliver exceptional results. 

China is renowned for its creativity in competitions, particularly in fields like hairdressing design, showcasing high technical skills. One reason for this is the country’s strong emphasis on innovation and blending traditional techniques with modern trends. Chinese competitors often push the boundaries of conventional styles, incorporating bold, avant-garde elements into their work that stand out in international competitions. Additionally, the extensive training and education systems in China focuses not only on technical skills but also on fostering creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. Chinese competitors are encouraged to explore new concepts and experiment with various materials, textures, and styles, making them highly adaptable and able to deliver unique, imaginative solutions. Furthermore, China’s growing influence in global fashion and beauty industries has contributed to its competitors’ ability to stay ahead of trends and consistently showcase fresh, forward-thinking designs. 

What do international Standards of Excellence look like in this skill?

International standards of excellence in hairdressing are defined by a blend of technical skill, creativity, client care, and professionalism. This includes precise cutting, advanced colouring techniques, and a strong understanding of health and safety. Excellence is also marked by personalised styling, staying up to date with trends, and maintaining effective communication with clients through thorough consultations and aftercare advice. Additionally, professionalism in time management, consistency, and delivering a superior client experience is crucial. Continuous learning and adaptability to new techniques and technologies ensure that hairdressers remain competitive and provide high-quality service. Here is an example of a precise but blended cutting style using a variety of techniques including a razor and creative colouring.

Examples below.

How do high performing countries develop their pipeline of competitors working towards international competitions?

Most high performing countries will only allow individuals who are age-eligible to enter their national competitions for the chance to represent their country at WorldSkills or EuroSkills. Some countries rotate their competitors, sending a new individual to WorldSkills or EuroSkills each time, while others may enter the same competitor for both events.

Other Countries, particularly those that feel they have a stronger chance at EuroSkills, may focus their efforts on that competition, using WorldSkills as more of a pressure test scenario in readiness for future EuroSkills participation. Additionally, some countries hold their national finals bi-annually, which allows more time for training and preparation, whilst also offering an opportunity to reassess their talent pool before selecting their next competitor. These strategies ensure that competitors are not only well-prepared for international events but also aligned with their country’s specific goals and competitive advantages.   

In some countries, national finalists are trained by their country’s WorldSkills training team in advance of either their international selection process or the national final. This training is designed to ensure that all potential competitors have an equal opportunity to perform at their best by providing them with the same level of preparation and support.

The training team focuses on refining technical skills, improving problem-solving abilities, and fostering creativity, ensuring that each competitor is equipped with the tools needed to succeed at the highest level. This approach helps standardise the preparation process, making it fair and comprehensive, while also boosting the chances of success at both WorldSkills and EuroSkills competitions. 

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Section two: International benchmarking