There are no formal apprenticeships available in Australia, as the piercing industry is currently unregulated. It is the opinion of the AUPP and professional piercing organisations worldwide that an apprenticeship is the best way to learn how to become a responsible, quality practitioner.
An apprenticeship is defined as guided training through the basic, intermediate and advanced levels of piercing. Only seek an apprenticeship at a quality, reputable studio, from a highly skilled and experienced mentor who follows best practice guidelines. Learning incorrectly or taking inappropriate “shortcuts” can discourage potential mentors, and hinder future learning and employment opportunities.
There are many ways to stand out as a potential apprentice:
- Travel to the annual APP conference in Las Vegas (www.safepiercing.org) and take as many courses for new piercers as you can
- Attend a bloodborne pathogens training class, such as that given by APP
- Attend a First Aid/CPR class, such as that given by Red Cross
- Become familiar with the APP Suggested Body Piercer Apprenticeship Guidelines and Curriculum
- Have retail sales and customer service experience
- Become an excellent customer of the shop you’d like to apprentice at – get piercings there, wear their jewellery, and voluntarily promote their shop
- Take anatomy and physiology classes at university or TAFE
- Read about piercing and learn piercing history
DO NOT:
- Take online crash-courses
- “Practice” piercing on yourself and your friends
- Work at novelty stores that do not require industry standardised training