DCG Success Stories

Young stylist Morgan Richmond is now working at the salon where she first started as a Saturday girl after completing a Level 2 Professional Hair Apprenticeship with Derby College Group.  

Morgan, 18, trained at Deborah Williams Hair in Stapleford – an employer who has for many years worked closely with the college to provide hair apprenticeships. 

Morgan, who got a distinction at End Point Assessment, is very happy with the support she received both from DCG and Deborah. 

She said: “I went into the Roundhouse every Monday and enjoyed all aspects of my time at college. I made new friends and all our tutors were great – they’d help us straightaway.  

“I much preferred College to school. We were shown respect and not treated like little kids. At work I sometimes lack confidence but Deborah, my boss, is great; she really encourages me.  

“If I’m unsure I can go to Deb for reassurance. She always says she wouldn’t ask me to do something if she didn’t think I was capable of doing it.  

“There was another Derby College apprentice at the salon when I started, and although we were at different stages of our training, it was good to talk to her about the tuition side.” 

Morgan likes colouring and balayage best as she enjoys the chance to show off her artistic side.  

She added: “I love working with bright colours or crazy colours where I can be creative.  I also love the client contact part of hairdressing and seeing how a fresh look gives people a lift.  

“We all feel great after a haircut. This contact with customers is not something you find in other jobs.  In my job you develop bonds with clients – it’s almost like having another social life.”  

Morgan likes the flexibility a career in hair offers and might consider working for herself when she’s older.