For Maria Shah, hairdressing is more than a job, it’s a craft she’s passionate about and a career she’s determined to grow. After years working in a salon, she realised it was time to take the next step. To progress, she needed the qualifications that would open new doors. That’s when she chose to return to education at Bradford College.
A New Start with a Clear Goal
Maria enrolled onto the Level 2 Hairdressing course with a long‑term ambition: to move into training and teaching future stylists.
“I wanted to get into the training side of hairdressing,” she explains. “Education felt like the best way to do that, and it’s something solid to fall back on.”
Completing Level 2 will allow her to progress to Level 3 and eventually gain the full qualifications she needs to teach. For Maria, this journey is about more than developing her skills, it’s also about shaping a future where she can pass her knowledge on to others.
Overcoming the Nerves of Returning to Education
Like many adult learners, Maria expected returning to the classroom to feel daunting. Instead, she found the opposite.
“I thought it would be a lot harder, but the teachers and students have made it so easy. It’s fun, it’s social, and I’m getting my education at the same time.”
Her only concern was balancing study with her job. But with evening classes designed specifically for adults aged 19+, the timetable fits perfectly around her work.
“My class starts at 4:30, just as my shift finishes. It works out so well.”
Hands‑On Learning That Builds Confidence
One of the biggest highlights for Maria has been the practical, salon‑based training.
“We’ve had clients coming from all over, and we can bring our own clients too. It really sets the tone for working in a real salon.”
She praises the tutors for their industry experience and the one‑to‑one support they offer.
“The tutors are amazing. They’ve worked in the industry themselves, so I can ask them anything. Even students with no background in hairdressing have learned so much in just a few months.”
Balancing Life, Work and Study
With most coursework completed in college and classes held in the evenings, Maria has found the balance surprisingly manageable.
“It fits around work life, home life, everything. It’s convenient for all of us.”
A Journey That’s Already Rewarding
For Maria, the most rewarding part has been the people she’s met—new friends, new clients and tutors who genuinely care.
“It’s been really special.”
Her Message to Other Adults Thinking About Returning
“Absolutely go for it. There’s nothing stopping you. The courses fit around your life, and the support is amazing. I work in the day and come here two evenings a week—I’d 100% recommend it.”
Maria’s story shows how returning to education can open unexpected opportunities. By building on her experience and gaining new qualifications, she’s creating a future where she can share her skills and inspire others. With flexible evening classes, supportive tutors and real‑world salon training, Bradford College has helped her grow in confidence and ambition. Her journey proves it’s never too late to invest in yourself and take the next step.
Find out about our Adult courses for 19+ here.