Sobia Akhtar

I chose to take an NVQ in Hairdressing because it’s something that’s always appealed to me and I get a real feel good factor from cutting and styling hair – it’s a true passion of mine. I feel lucky because the college and my tutors have been extremely supportive – they are just brilliant. The content of the course has prepared me sufficiently and I feel that because of all that I’ve learnt I’ll be ready for employment after I’ve completed my final year.

Whilst at college I sometimes experience difficulties relating to comprehension of signers. Prior to my signer Bill, I had a few other signers and found it difficult to understand them as they could not express themselves with facial expressions and body language which is important for me to comprehend. Both I and Misbah have found that in order to gain the most benefits from the signer it is important to establish a good relationship with them.

Another challenge relates to specific terminology in relation to signing because I have had times when a sign doesn’t exist to represent a particular hairdressing term. However, when this has happened we simply create a new one which makes the learning process even more interesting. I feel it’s most beneficial and helpful as a deaf person if the signer understands the processes and terminology being delivered as this can provide the signer with more confidence, and in turn will support the learner. Bill has a strong understanding and knowledge of industry terms which has aided my progression.

I really like vocational learning because I enjoy keeping busy and performing practical activities – it’s fun and motivating. The salon mimics a real shop so it prepares us for work in terms of various aspects, including how to deal professionally with the clients. The vocational training I’ve received has been immensely advantageous to me. People with disabilities shouldn’t feel nervous or daunted about taking up such a course – I am so pleased I decided to enter the hairdressing industry. It’s also important that those with disabilities don’t feel afraid to integrate with those who don’t have disabilities – we’re all the same and if you do struggle your fellow students will support you. Students taking my course have even learnt a bit of sign language and we can all communicate with each other through writing!

My most important goal in life is to continue learning and be happy and I believe that vocational qualifications will help support me to achieve both of these.