FORD’S Thoughts

How to create a future learning strategy

ABOUT KIM FORD

Kim Ford has worked in the beauty and education sectors for over three decades, in more than 40 countries. She has honed her skills in beauty, spa, sports, nails, holistic therapy and aesthetics, in private and public education establishments, spas, salons and retail businesses.

Kim has extensive experience as an international examination officer for awarding organisations, and has held the titles of chairman of BABTAC and CIBTAC and vice president of CIDESCO GB. An education consultant for CIDESCO International, she sits on a number of industry boards globally as a director or trustee, and has won awards for education and business in the UK and internationally.

As owner of Beauty Enterprise Solutions, Consultancy & Training, Kim supports industry education establishments in gaining accreditation or endorsement. She strives to raise industry standards and help beauty professionals reach their education and career goals.

Visiting RJB Beauty Training Academy to perform the Ofqual Aesthetics Pathway premises standards check. This evaluated RJB as an official Ofqual Qualification Centre.

Hello nail superstars! It is the end of the academic year: an apt time to consider your strategy for future learning. Whether you’re a nail newbie or wish to develop existing skills, write down your goals and formulate a plan to reach them.

Investing in your education, continued learning and skill development helps to not only hone your technical abilities, but supports teamwork, problem-solving and your ability to adapt. Do not neglect your personal growth or become complacent in your role, as continuous improvement and skill development are crucial to remaining relevant in the nail sector. Look to gain certifications suited to your career goals: whether continued professional development (CPD) credits or Ofqual qualifications.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Formerly known as Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL), RPL is a process where learners are recognised for their knowledge, understanding or skills achieved outside an Ofqual course. It is worth noting that some Ofqual providers may offer government funding to help you gain your qualification. On your application, inform them that you would like to be considered for RPL during certification.

For RPL, collate any certificates and transcripts you have gained in your subject area, as well as client records of treatments, references from employers and details of how long you have owned your business. It is also helpful to list a website or social media platforms that show your work, and testimonials from clients. Most awarding organisations will require two to five years’ evidence of work in your subject area.

The centre will evaluate your certificates and identify which are transferable to the theory and practical sections of the Ofqual qualification you wish to gain. It will then be determined which areas RPL is applicable to, and the support you need to complete any further areas to meet the qualification criteria. For example, if your course is 400 hours long, you may only need to complete 100 to 200 hours to gain the qualification with the evidence you provide.

Your strategy plan When preparing your strategy for nail training, define the specific skills you want to improve or learn: whether nail art techniques, L&P acrylic application or nail health knowledge. Next, create a structured plan to outline how you will achieve these skills. Identify your long-term career goals and break them down into smaller, achievable milestones, before outlining a timeline with specific deadlines for each.

Points to consider:

• Set clear goals. Establish achievable short-term objectives that lead to your long-term goals. This will help you maintain focus and measure progress. Use SMART goals: ensure they are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound to increase the likelihood of success.

• Avoid short-sighted decisions. Don’t follow industry fads without considering whether they align with your long-term goals and interests. Trends can be fleeting, but a career is long-term.

• Avoid quick fixes: Resist the temptation to make short-term gains at the expense of long-term goals. Decisions should be based on sustainable growth, rather than immediate rewards.

• Embrace change: Staying within your comfort zone can stall your progress. Be open to new experiences to grow and develop.

• Track your progress. Make adjustments to your strategy regularly, and when you feel it is needed. Think about what works well for you and what can be improved, and stay committed to your training regimen.

A successful career strategy is not just about climbing the ladder, but finding personal and professional fulfilment. Lifelong learning keeps your skills current and knowledge up-to-date. Go and get those goals!

Check out the CIBTAC Level 3 Certificate in Nail Technology by scanning here