The Power of PARTNERSHIPS IN EDUCATION

By Anthony Gray, MIG Training

Hairdressing is a dynamic and constantly evolving industry, requiring professionals to continuously upskill and adapt to new trends and techniques. This makes it essential for hairdressing vocational education and training (VET) programs to remain current and relevant, and one of the most effective ways to achieve this is through education partnerships.

Education partnerships bring together educators from Registered Training Organisations (RTO’s), company/suppliers and independent industry educators, to develop and deliver high-quality VET programs that meet the needs of the industry. This collaborative approach to education has proven to be incredibly powerful in the hairdressing industry, as it ensures that students receive a comprehensive education that prepares them for a successful career.

One of the key benefits of education partnerships in hairdressing is the close collaboration between RTO educators and company educators. This close collaboration allows RTO educators to gain valuable insights into the latest trends and techniques in the industry, which can then be incorporated into their programs. This ensures that students are learning the skills and knowledge that are most relevant and in-demand in the industry.

The strongest example of this partnership is between the training organisation and the colour company. While an essential element of the formal training delivered by the RTO is to provide the apprentice with the foundation skills that allow them to work with all brands and ranges, a strong company and RTO educator partnership allow the salon and apprentice to take this knowledge and give it real world context.

At MIG Training we have forged a strong partnership arrangement with Loreal Professional. The value of this education partnership is substantial. MIG has access to world class colour education for the MIG team keeps our RTO educators at the forefront of the latest industry trends and techniques. Furthermore, MIG is able to support company educators with insight into the requirements of the Certificate III Hairdressing in training and how to best incorporate company education into the apprentice’s journey.

In addition to providing students with up-todate training, education partnerships also help to bridge the gap between education and employment. By working closely with industry professionals, RTO educators can better understand the skills and knowledge that employers need when training an apprentice. This information can then be used to develop programs that align with industry needs and provide students with the best possible chance of succeeding in the salon and as a senior after completing their formal training.

Another important benefit of education partnership is that for those students who are completing a course by and institutional pathway where they are attending full time at the RTO the right partnerships provide students with real-world experience and exposure to the industry. Many partnerships include opportunities for students to participate in on-the-job training, or work placement programs. These programs allow students to apply the theory and techniques they have learned in the classroom to realworld scenarios, which can greatly enhance their understanding and prepare them for a successful career.

Furthermore, education partnerships can also provide students with access to the latest equipment, tools, and technologies used in the industry. This can be particularly important in the hairdressing industry, where new tools and technologies are constantly being developed and introduced. By providing students with access to these resources, education partnerships help to ensure that students are learning the most up-to-date techniques and are well-prepared for the demands of the industry.

The power of education partnerships in hairdressing VET is also evident in the positive outcomes for students and the industry. Students who participate in these programs are better equipped to succeed in the workforce with the skills and knowledge. As a result, they are more likely to build careers in the industry and make valuable contributions to the industry as a whole.

Moreover, the close collaboration between educators and industry professionals can also lead to the development of new programs and initiatives that better meet the needs of the industry. This can result in a more highly skilled and prepared workforce, which can have a positive impact on the industry as a whole.

In conclusion, education partnerships are an essential component of hairdressing VET, providing students with the knowledge, skills, and experience they need to succeed in the industry. Through close collaboration between Registered Training Organisations (RTO’s), company / suppliers and independent industry educators students receive a comprehensive education that is aligned with industry needs and prepares them for a successful career.

With the ongoing evolution of the hairdressing industry, education partnerships will continue to play an important role in ensuring that the industry remains strong and vibrant.