- 26 June 2026
- Apprentices & Success Stories & Employer Information &
How Kleek Apprentices Helped Wynyard Therapy Build an Award-Winning Salon
When Alice C. I'Anson Widdows, Salon Owner & CEO of Wynyard Therapy in Wynyard Village, began building her salon team, she knew she wanted strong foundations in place from the very beginning. Nearly four years later, she credits apprenticeships as one of the key factors behind the salon's growth, success and award-winning customer experience.
Working alongside Kleek Apprenticeships, Alice developed two hairdressing apprentices who became valued members of the business.
Building a Salon Team from the Ground Up
"Kleek has supported me throughout the entire journey of building my hair team from the ground up here at Wynyard Therapy. From day one, Kleek's apprenticeship programme provided the guidance, training and support needed to help my apprentices develop their skills while contributing to the day-to-day success of the salon." says Alice.
Supported by Kleek Educator Claire Dixon, Alice has been able to nurture young talent while continuing to grow her business.
Photo: Salon Owner Founder & CEO, Alice, pictured with Hairdressing Apprentice Leah.
The Impact Apprentices Have on Salon Success
For many salon owners, apprentices are seen as an investment in the future. For Alice, they have also delivered immediate benefits.
"From the moment a guest walks through the door, apprentices play a vital role in the customer journey. Apprentices support reception duties, assist with salon operations, carry out blow-dries and backwash services, and help ensure every client receives outstanding customer care. This allows senior stylists to focus on delivering exceptional services while maintaining a smooth-running salon environment."
For Alice, this level of support has completely changed the day-to-day running of the salon and contributed significantly to customer satisfaction.
How Apprentices Contributed to an Award-Winning Salon
One standout moment for Alice at Wynyard Therapy was becoming a multi-award-winning salon in less than one year of opening.
"We became a multi-award-winning salon in just under one year, and that was due to the great customer service and guest relations. A huge part of that is down to our apprentices."
The salon's commitment to exceptional customer experiences has been recognised through industry awards, while apprentices themselves have also achieved individual success. Hairdressing Apprentice Leah received recognition in the UK Hair and Beauty Awards, reaching the finalist stages for two consecutive years.
Photo: Wynyard Therapy Salon in Wynyard Village.
Growing New Revenue Streams Through Apprenticeships
Beyond supporting daily salon operations, apprentices have helped drive business growth. Alice introduced luxury hair extension services using Remi Cachet and invested in specialist training for her team. The apprentices embraced the opportunity and helped grow the salon's reputation within the premium hair extension market.
"They are hungry to learn. If I put an opportunity in front of them, they will chase it. We've really grown the business through new services," says Alice.
The apprentices also inspired wellbeing and wellness initiatives within the salon, helping create a positive working environment for both staff and clients.
What Salon Owners Need to Know Before Taking on an Apprentice
While Alice strongly recommends apprenticeships, she emphasises that successful apprentices require commitment from employers.
"Taking on an apprentice is a responsibility. You need structure, systems, training and time."
Salon owners must be prepared to mentor, guide and support apprentices throughout their development. Creating opportunities for in-salon learning and providing consistent encouragement is essential for building confidence and professional skills.
However, Alice believes the rewards far outweigh the investment.
"Watching apprentices grow, develop confidence and build careers is incredibly rewarding. Seeing them flourish under the guidance and support you provide is one of the most enjoyable parts of being an employer."
Photo: Occasion hair by Leah at Wynyard Therapy.
Why Apprenticeships Are Essential for Salon Growth
For salon owners wondering whether apprenticeships are worth the investment, Alice's answer is simple.
"You absolutely need apprentices in your business. They provide a strong foundation and are incredibly important to long-term success."
Alice also believes the new financial apprenticeship incentives make apprenticeships an even more attractive option for salon businesses looking to grow.
"I'm delighted to see the new incentives come on board. It definitely makes us reconsider taking on our next apprentice. Taking on an apprentice is still very much an investment, but you're getting a little extra financial help along the way."
As salons continue to face recruitment challenges and industry pressures, these new incentives, alongside the long-term benefits of developing home-grown talent, make apprenticeships an increasingly good choice.
By investing in apprentices, salon owners are investing in the future growth, stability and success of their business.
Start Building Your Salon Team with Kleek
Kleek helps salons across England recruit, train and develop the next generation of hairdressing, beauty and barbering professionals through our industry-leading apprenticeships.
Get in touch today to recruit your next apprentice with the UK's No.1 Hair and Beauty Training Provider, Kleek Apprenticeships.