Q&A with Emma Peterson – Beauty Therapy Apprentice of the Year 2021

We spoke with Emma Peterson from Skin and Beauté, about her experience as a HITO apprentice and what she loves about her industry. Emma took out Beauty Therapy Apprentice of the Year at The Industry Awards 2021.

Why did you decide to start a beauty therapy apprenticeship? 

Starting an apprenticeship was a bit of a fluke for me. My boss, Sally Choie, was stuck for a few days on reception so I helped her out. I’d previously done my first year in a hairdressing apprenticeship and had a bad experience with no support around me. I still wasn’t ready to leave the beauty industry and Sally had seen my good work ethic and drive for what she left me in charge to do.

What do you love most about the industry?

I love the variety in a day nothing is ever the same and all the different clients I get to work with and see!

Do you have any advice for people thinking of starting an apprenticeship?

Push to be the best version of yourself, study hard and don’t turn down any trainings you get offered.

An apprenticeship is a great way to get into the industry, you get to learn from the ground up how the industry and business run. You get payed to learn and are left with a job at the end of it.

Why is being qualified so important to you?

To be such a young age and have a qualification under my belt goes to show I have put the hard work and effort in, I can also move in to more extensive treatments such as IPL and Collagen Induction Therapy.

How did it feel to win Beauty Apprentice of the Year? 

It felt crazy, it was an emotional time as I had doubted myself and didn’t even expect to get into the top 4 that in itself was a big achievement. But coming back into work after winning that award I’ve had nothing but happiness from all clients, product reps and co workers really celebrating that I won. It’s been great

Do you have any top tips for people entering the Beauty AOY category this year?

Do not be afraid to put yourself out there, in your write up give as much detail as you can about your statistics and trainings! Put lots of effort into your entry!

Emma Peterson (second from left), Sally Choie (second from right), and the Skin and Beauté team