My Mentor & Me: 5 Things Mentorship Can Teach You
Due to disruptions in apprenticeships, expedited training programs, and the pressure to perform early in their careers, many emerging stylists may find gaps in their core knowledge and essential skills, leading to a lack of confidence. This is where mentorship can play a crucial role in making a meaningful and lasting impact.
For stylist Amber, the Chaulk Mentor Programme created by the highly sought-after educator and colour specialist Sarah Spiers was a significant turning point. Over the course of a year, the program helped her rebuild her skill set, completely shift her mindset, and gain a solid understanding of colour.
Here, Amber shares 5 lessons mentorship taught her, and why she believes it should be a key part of every colourist’s journey.
1.Mentorship can bridge the gaps that formal training often misses
“During my apprenticeship, I received limited support and training from my college due to the impact of COVID-19,” Amber explains. “I felt I was missing out on key learning experiences and wanted to enhance my knowledge, improve my skills, and build my confidence.”
“My boss recommended that I watch Sarah’s Instagram Lives, which is how I discovered the Chaulk Mentor course. From the moment I saw Sarah speak, her passion for hairdressing was both inspiring and infectious. I knew right away that learning from her would be a valuable opportunity to reignite my enthusiasm and take my career to the next level”
For stylists who feel they’ve fallen through the cracks, the right mentor can provide the focus, feedback, and reassurance that formal training often lacks.
- Confidence grows because of real-life opportunities
While training builds knowledge, mentorship provides stylists the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned and feel trusted in the process. For Amber, one of the most significant moments in her journey was being invited to assist Sarah at a live course.
“One of the pivotal moments for me was having the chance to assist Sarah at one of her specialist courses in London. Being entrusted to support her in that environment was such a confidence boost.”
“On that day, everything Sarah had taught me clicked into place. I felt completely in my element, proud of my capabilities, and more confident than ever. It was honestly the best day of my career so far.”
Learning doesn’t only occur through lessons. Real growth happens when you are trusted to put that learning into action and realise just how far you’ve come.
3.A fresh perspective can be transformative
At the core of Sarah’s educational approach is her philosophy, “The Science of Hair.” This brand-neutral scientific framework is designed to help colourists build a solid foundation in colour formulation.
“Sarah’s mentorship completely transformed how I approach colour work and consultations. She teaches you the right questions to ask, making my results more personal, beautiful, and consistent. Her motto, ‘No brands, no bullsh*t, no limitations,’ inspired me to step out of my comfort zone and explore techniques and products I would have been too afraid to try before.”
A strong educational philosophy doesn’t just pass on knowledge, it challenges the way you think. For Amber, learning from Sarah’s open, science-led approach helped her build more confidence, independence, and creativity in her day-to-day work.
- Building resilience is crucial in an ever-evolving industry
For Amber, the program not only improved her technique but also transformed her perception of herself as a professional.
“The biggest change I’ve noticed in myself is the way I approach colour with a confident mindset. I now look at things scientifically, which helps me predict outcomes and make better decisions,” she says.
“My knowledge and skills have grown massively and so has my confidence. I feel more in control, more capable, and, for the first time, I’m excited about what’s next.”
Technical skill is essential, but it’s resilience that keeps a colourist steady when things don’t go to plan. With the right support, stylists don’t just become more skilled, they become more self-assured, adaptable, and future-ready.
5.Mentorship is a Long-Term Strategy for Success
In a fast-paced, ever-evolving industry, mentorship isn’t just a bonus, it should be a vital part of professional growth. The most successful stylists aren’t just technically trained; they’re supported, challenged, and developed over time. For Amber, the structure of a year-long programme made all the difference.
“I would recommend the Chaulk Mentor Programme to any stylist who wants to grow both technically and professionally. Sarah’s industry knowledge is unmatched, and she’s not only an expert in her field but also an incredible coach.”
“The course is highly interactive, with countless opportunities to develop your skills, confidence, and mindset. Sarah explains everything in a way that’s easy to understand and always takes the time to support each of her ‘mentorees’ with genuine care. Her passion is infectious, and being mentored by her is truly a game-changer.”
Mentorship shouldn’t be seen as a short-term fix; it’s a strategic investment in long-term success. With the right mentor, stylists don’t just grow, they build the confidence and capability to lead their development, now and in the future.
Amber’s experience is a clear reminder that mentorship isn’t just a support tool; it’s a strategic advantage. In a fast-moving industry where confidence, clarity, and adaptability matter more than ever, long-term mentorship offers space to grow skills, mindset, and self-belief in equal measure. With educators like Sarah Spiers leading the way, it’s time the industry viewed mentorship not as an optional extra but as an essential part of every stylist’s journey.
To find out more about the Chaulk Mentor Programme or upcoming enrolments, visit Chaulk Mentor Program or contact Kate Mallon-Cleland by emailing kate@ajc93.com, or call 0131 202 0659
