According to Spa & Beauty Education, many schools teach to state licensing exams, focusing on the knowledge and skills students need to pass the test and become certified cosmetology professionals. Producing students who can pass state exams is important, but cosmetology schools also need to teach the latest theories and techniques to keep graduates commercially competitive, and the content of state exams is sometimes quite out of date. Know what the state exam covers to ensure that your curriculum meets basic requirements and also include newer, up-and-coming industry techniques that will give your students an edge.
Help your students understand the realities of working for clients in a salon by providing real-world beauty and styling experiences. Antonio enjoyed working on customers on walk-in days at her beauty school and recommends that other students seek out similar experiences. HairBoutique.com also recommends that students volunteer and participate in organized activities, such as going to retirement villages and providing free services. Prepare your students for work and develop their interpersonal skills by making similar opportunities available at your school.
You probably have students of all different ages at your cosmetology school, and different generations find inspiration with distinct motivators. According to WordWideLearn, drier topics like anatomy, physiology, chemistry and sanitation are important to a well-rounded beauty education. Instructors can make theory more interesting by linking lessons to future rewards that different generations value. While Generation X students want career flexibility and freedom, for example, Generation Y learners are more concerned with increasing their earning potential.
Roshanda Autrey, cosmetology teacher at DeKalb High School of Technology South in Decatur, Georgia, is respected and admired by students who feel like they can talk to their teacher about anything, even outside personal issues. Beauty school can be a grueling experience, involving hours on your feet and in the classroom. Encourage students to exercise, both as a means of stress relief and to help increase physical endurance. Remind students to take time to unwind and be there to provide career advice and a listening ear for stressed out pupils.