Bossin' It At Barbering As A Kleek Apprentice

Katie, Level 2 Barbering Apprentice, Headquarters Middlesbrough

Kleek: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and where your barbering journey began?

Katie: I’ve always been interested in style and self-presentation. I started out in the military, which taught me discipline, focus, and the importance of attention to detail. During that time, I also realised how much I valued teamwork and people skills.

After leaving the services, I wanted a career where I could use those qualities in a more creative way, and barbering was the perfect fit. My journey began by cutting hair for friends and family during the COVID-19 lockdown, and I quickly discovered I had both the passion and patience to turn it into a profession.

Kleek: Why did you choose the apprenticeship route?

Katie: I chose an apprenticeship because I wanted to learn on the job and gain a qualification surrounded by professionals, rather than just in a classroom. It’s the best way to gain hands-on experience, build confidence with real clients, and pick up skills that can’t be taught from a book. Plus, earning while learning is a huge bonus.

Kleek: What do you love most about your job?

Katie: The best part is the people. Every day is different because every client has their own story, style, and personality. I love the transformation aspect—seeing someone walk out of the shop feeling more confident than when they came in is really rewarding.

Kleek: Can you describe a typical working week at Headquarters Middlesbrough?

Katie: A typical week is busy and varied. We see a mix of clients—regulars coming in for a tidy-up, new customers looking for a fresh cut, and people wanting to try something completely different. Services range from skin fades and beard trims to longer restyles and hot towel shaves. It’s a good balance of routine and creativity, which keeps things exciting.

Kleek: What advice would you give to your younger self, starting out in the industry?

Katie: Be patient and trust the process. Skills take time to perfect, and it’s normal to make mistakes along the way. Don’t compare yourself to others—just focus on improving a little bit every day.

Flynn, qualified with a Level 2 distinction, Patrick Forster Barbers

Kleek: Why did you want to become a barber and choose the apprenticeship route?

Flynn: My interest was sparked by the desire to meet new people. I’m a very chatty and sociable person so I just love that about cutting hair. And doing an apprenticeship meant I could learn and earn. I also enjoy shadowing and watching, as you learn a lot compared to what you can learn in a typical college.

Kleek: What’s your typical working week like in your barbershop?

Flynn: It includes doing the apprentice jobs like shampooing, taking care of staff and clients, ensuring the shop is a nice environment to come into, training, cutting, and shadowing.

Kleek: What is your favourite service to carry out?

Flynn: I really like shampooing, and also consultations – learning about what the client likes and doesn’t like and what they want to achieve with their hair. It’s a vital part of the service.

Kleek: What advice would you give to someone thinking of starting a barbering apprenticeship?

Flynn: I’d say 100% go for it if that’s what they want to do! It’s 100% there with Kleek.

Kleek: What are your future career aspirations?

Flynn: I really want to stay here, build up my clientele, skills, and experience, and maybe in a few years open up my own place!