- 18 June 2026
- Apprentices & Success Stories &
At Kleek Apprenticeships, there's nothing more rewarding than seeing our learners build successful careers in the hair and beauty industry after they've qualified. After completing her hairdressing apprenticeship with Kleek, Scarlett Greaves, has gone on to achieve an incredible milestone, opening her own salon, InStyle Hair & Beauty in Chesterfield. Even more inspiring, she is now supporting the next generation of talent by employing her own Kleek apprentice, Tilly!
We caught up with Scarlett to talk about her journey from apprentice to business owner, the impact of her apprenticeship, and what it's like now being on the other side of the learner experience...
Thinking back, what made you choose hairdressing as your career path?
"There are a few reasons why I chose hairdressing as my career path. One of the main reasons is because my mum is a hairdresser, and she inspired me from a young age. Watching her create beautiful hair every day — starting with doing my own hair — always made me want to be like her. I also chose this career because I love making people feel beautiful and confident in themselves, especially at a time when so many people are struggling. The relationships you build with clients are amazing, and growing alongside them makes that bond even more special."
Why did you decide to do an apprenticeship rather than another route into the industry?
"I chose to do an apprenticeship because I feel it is the most beneficial way to learn. You don’t just learn how to do hair — you also learn how to manage a salon. From cleaning to keeping on top of stock, these are skills and knowledge you can only truly gain through hands-on experience in an apprenticeship."
What was your experience like during your apprenticeship with Kleek, and how did we support you?
"Doing my apprenticeship with Kleek Apprenticeships has been very straightforward and rewarding. You receive endless support from Kleek and the educators, and they always make time to help. This really matters to learners, as it can be very nerve-wracking when you are unsure of yourself. Kleek supported me throughout my apprenticeship, and I am very grateful for that."
How did your apprenticeship help shape your path from apprentice to business owner?
"My apprenticeship helped shape my journey from learner to salon owner by giving me the right support and mindset. Being in a salon allowed me to watch, listen, and learn how a salon is run and how to handle all kinds of situations, both good and bad. I learned how to keep the salon organised and clean, communicate with clients, and stay on top of daily tasks. As my skills developed, so did my confidence, which eventually gave me the opportunity to become a salon owner and offer others the same opportunity that I had."
If you could give one piece of advice to someone looking to get into the industry, what would it be?
"If I could give any advice to anyone wanting to join the hairdressing industry, it would be: don’t let fear or a lack of confidence override your potential. Many people entering this industry feel nervous about working with clients and their hair — which for many people is very important to them — but don’t let that fear stop you from becoming the amazing hairdresser you can be!"
Now that you have your own Kleek apprentice, how does it feel being on the other side and supporting someone throughout their journey?
"Having our own apprentice learning with us is such a privilege. Watching her learn and grow from the very beginning has been such a lovely thing to be a part of. We support and guide her through everything, and seeing not only her work improve but her confidence grow as well has been amazing."
How does your apprentice add value to the business?
"Tilly adds value to our business in more ways than one. She supports us with day-to-day salon tasks and helps out wherever she can. She grows in confidence every day and has come such a long way already. Tilly now has her own clients and always makes everyone feel comfortable and welcome. She has become a valuable and reliable member of our team, and we wouldn’t know what to do without her."
A Full-Circle Success Story
Scarlett's journey demonstrates the long-term impact an apprenticeship can have. From learning the foundations of hairdressing with Kleek to building a successful business and mentoring her own apprentice, she has come full circle.
Her story highlights the power of hands-on learning, the importance of confidence and support, and how investing in apprentices can help shape the future of the industry. As Scarlett continues to grow InStyle Hair & Beauty, she's also helping to inspire and develop the next generation of hair professionals — just as others did for her.
