To consider re-training as a hairdresser aged 35?

[choccywoccydoohdah]

I always wanted to be a hairdresser as a child but when I was 16 my parents wouldn't allow me to do a hairdressing course or apprenticeship and so I ended up doing a business admin course and then working in admin until I had my second child. I've been a SAHM for about 8 years now.

My youngest is now at nursery and I've discovered that my local college now does a part time hairdressing course for mature students, 3 days per week in college with experience in the college salon, which I'd really like to do. It's an NVQ 2, and then you can go on to do the NVQ 3 too, and I guess after that I could get a job in a salon as a junior stylist.

I am really seriously considering doing this course, it's something I'd love to do. I know hairdressing wages are quite low unless you work on a self employed basis in a salon but the wage doesn't bother me as I don't really need to work financially, it's more the job satisfaction, and then of course hopefully I could make a good career out of it.

Am I mad to consider this at 35?

Not at all. Follow the dream, I say!

Go for it!

Nope, def not mad. Ive never met an unhappy hairdresser. Best you can get a job in a salon for a few days a week and then work as requested in your own time too.

I just wouldn't advise being mobile only at first unless you have a lot of friends that hate salons. Build your client list, get experience, then mobile.

I would do it, in your situation. And once you've qualified and have experience there are options such as working for yourself.

Why not speak to the manager of your local salon and ask whether, given a choice, they would employ a woman your age as a junior?

Go for it - I've never met a 'poor' self employed hairdresser. A tangable skill is one that can travel the world with you. Once you get your client base you can work hours that suit you, from home. Or you can do your thing on cruise ships. Whatever takes your fancy

Do it! My hairdresser retrained when she was about your age and now runs her own salon. It's never too late :)

I can't think of any compelling reason why you wouldn't do it - sounds like a great opportunity. Good luck!

Do it! If you hate the job at the end of it, it's not the end of the world ifyou don't need the money in the first place.

Sounds good, I'm thinking of retraining as something not yet decided when mine are both at school.

I know someone who retrained as a lawyer at 40. Had a very good twenty year career.

It's never too late. Go for it and good luck!