“When I got my distinction, it felt amazing — I’d worked so hard for it.”
Developing Future Beauty Talent at Heart of England Training
At Heart of England Training (HOET), we’re proud to nurture the next generation of professionals shaping the beauty industry. Our Rugby Hair & Beauty Academy provides the skills, confidence and qualifications that allow learners to flourish — both in training and beyond.
One of our recent success stories is Micheala, who completed her full-time Level 2 course progressed onto Level 3 Beauty Therapy Apprenticeship, completing a weekly training day at our Rugby Hair and Beauty academy alongside her apprenticeship at ESQUE in Leamington Spa. Her journey is a shining example of how structured apprenticeship pathways help turn passion into career success.
Building Skills, Confidence and Expertise
Micheala’s love for skincare and science was the starting point for her career. Before joining HOET, she studied science with ambitions of working in dermatology. After moving to the UK, she realised she could combine her scientific knowledge with her passion for skincare through beauty therapy — and that’s when she discovered the opportunities available through HOET.
“I’ve always loved understanding how skin works,” Micheala explained. “I like giving clients information and helping them find the right treatments for their concerns. I also enjoy bringing in the science behind skincare — that’s what makes it exciting for me.”
Hands-On Learning That Builds Real Industry Experience
Through her apprenticeship with HOET, Micheala gained valuable hands-on experience working with real clients, learning how to deliver advanced electrical and massage treatments as part of her End Point Assessment (EPA).
She admitted that preparing for the EPA was nerve-wracking:
“Before actually doing it, I was really nervous — but once I got started, I realised I did know the knowledge. I’d practised, I was prepared, and it just flowed from there.”
Her determination and professionalism paid off. Micheala achieved a distinction, showcasing the high standard of training she received and the dedication she brought to every element of her learning.
Support That Makes a Difference
Behind every apprentice success story is the support network that helps them thrive. For Micheala, that included Georgina, her educator at HOET.
“Georgina has always believed in me,” she said. “When I didn’t think I could do it, she encouraged me and kept me going. She also shared so much knowledge — that really helped me succeed.”
This supportive, learner-focused approach is what sets Heart of England Training apart. Educators work closely with learners and employers to ensure every apprentice receives tailored guidance, clear feedback, and real workplace readiness.
Strengthening the Industry Through Apprenticeships
Today, Micheala is a valued member of the team at ESQUE, where she’s working towards becoming a standard therapist. Her apprenticeship not only gave her the technical expertise to perform treatments like galvanic facials and body electricals but also the confidence to deliver exceptional client care.
By offering structured pathways like the Level 3 Beauty Therapy Apprenticeship, Heart of England Training is helping salons across the Midlands attract and retain skilled, motivated professionals who elevate industry standards.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Salon Professionals
Apprenticeships like Micheala’s show the lasting value of investing in people. For employers, they provide the opportunity to develop staff who grow with your business, bringing creativity, passion, and up-to-date knowledge into the salon environment.
If you’re an employer interested in taking on an apprentice or learning more about how Heart of England Training can support your salon, visit hoet.co.uk or contact our team today.
