Solve my life!

[superfake]

Hi. I'm new to the forum. I'm really posting to ask some advice (ok, a lot of advice...) and seriously, let me thank anyone who reads this or responds sooooo much, in advance.

I'm 28, American, living in London (not a citizen, but will be here for the foreseeable future.) I have done hair, mostly cutting but a little color as well- on and off for over 10 years. The thing is, it has all been freelance ( I think maybe you guys call it 'mobile'). I am talented, and back in the US I had clients who left long relationships at good salons in NY for me (flattering, but keep in mind that I usually charged about $15). Despite this I have no qualifications, no salon experience or cllient base in the UK. I have strengths, but I'm sure there's tons I don't know.

I have a advanced art degree and (surprise!) no job. I have been bouncing around in a lot of things pretty fruitlessly and am thinking about trying to do hair in a more professional way. I really love cutting hair but I have no idea where to start. My partner and I don't have much money. I seem to be too old and too American for most internships. And honestly I don't think I can afford 3 plus years of full-time minimum wage.

I'm basically asking for honest advice. Does anyone know of an program for someone like me? Is there another way of going about this without an NVQ? or a way to get a good one while working? Or should I just give up on this for now.... i know no one likes to tell someone "you shouldn't try" but given my circumstances that may be just as helpful.

again thanks soooo much ( and sorry for all the parentheses!) I really appreciate anyone having taken the time to read this.

 

[sarahpoppy24]

Hi there if you are already confident in hair then why not do a fast track nvq 2 at a local college usually only one or two nights a week and then you will have the formal qualification for here in the uk or you coluld ring round the local colleges and see what they suggest you do? X

 

[superfake]

Thanks a lot Sarah, I am googleing and will call around.I was Looking at Saks (which i think a few people have mentioned on this forum) it's super expensive, but I guess i'll have to save up for a while no matter what I do.

I'm just glad I don't need a NVQ 1 first! I'm so sorry I'm so naive to all this. A lot of salons seem to require at least 2 years salon experience plus level 2 NVQ.... I know that as an apprentice, you get this. Is it incredibly difficult to get in somewhere with your NVQ 2 and no salon floor experience?

-Also, I've read some pretty intense warnings on this board about some schools in london, particularly ones offering fast-track NVQs. I'd love some london specific "look into this place/ stay far away from this place" sort of advice, if anyone has any.

thanks again