In today’s industry, stylists aren’t just looking for technical training; they want guidance, clarity, and a support system that lasts beyond the classroom.

For colourist Sophie Perfect, that’s exactly what she found in the Chaulk Mentor Programme, created by leading educator and colour specialist Sarah Spiers. Sophie first worked with Sarah years ago, when Sarah was her salon manager, and was instantly struck by her calm, confident teaching style.

Here, Sophie shares the five ways Sarah’s mentorship reshaped her approach to colour, clients, and confidence.

1. Mentorship unlocks a deeper understanding of colour.
Sarah explained the colour wheel in a way I’d never thought about before. I realised it’s not just about picking a shade from the chart — there are so many variations within each tone. Gold isn’t just ‘gold’; there are different depths and strengths, and depending on what you’re neutralising or creating, one might not be strong enough.

This shift in perspective gave Sophie a new level of precision, allowing her to achieve results that felt more consistent, intentional, and tailored.

2. Consultations become more structured and professional.
I now go into consultations with so much more confidence. I ask better questions, I take the time to explain the plan properly, and I’m clearer about managing expectations. Clients really notice that, and it makes the whole process smoother.

By embedding structure into her approach, Sophie found that her client relationships became stronger and more collaborative.

3. Confidence grows through tackling challenges.
I used to second-guess myself, especially with technical or corrective work. Now, I feel equipped to handle anything that comes through the door. Instead of dreading challenges, I actually enjoy them. It’s such a huge shift.

This newfound confidence is what helps stylists progress from “getting by” to thriving in their craft.

4. Relatable teaching makes all the difference.
She’s relatable, super knowledgeable, and she teaches in a way that actually makes sense day-to-day in the salon. Her motto of ‘No brands, no bullsh*t, no limitations’ really sums her up. It’s education that empowers you to think for yourself.

5. Mentorship builds lasting community, not just skills.
Unlike a lot of other training, with Sarah, you’re added to a WhatsApp group and the support continues. You’re always learning, asking questions, sharing wins (and mistakes!), and she’s always there guiding you. It feels like you’re part of a community, not just ticking off a course.

This ongoing network of support ensures that stylists don’t just continue to develop and grow long after the official sessions are over.

“Sarah’s guidance has completely transformed how I work, from my technical skills right through to the way I approach clients. It’s made me more confident, more resilient, and more excited about my career,”

– Sophie

In an industry that’s always evolving, Sophie’s journey is proof that mentorship should never be regarded as an optional extra; it’s one of the most valuable investments a stylist can make.

To find out more about the Chaulk Mentor Programme or upcoming enrolments, visit Chaulk Mentor Program.

“When you have learned to colour through the lens of one system, then it can be difficult to adapt to a new one with confidence. For example, you might question formulations or second-guess your results. This can really shake your flow behind the chair,” – Sarah Spiers, Chaulk Education Founder.

Colour Meltdown

It is very common for most Colourists to be trained with a single colour brand system, learning its tonal families, numbering logic, and formulation techniques. However, when a Colourist moves to another salon, experiments with a new product, or even faces a discontinued favourite, then that product-specific knowledge may not always apply.

This moment, when product behaviour no longer matches muscle memory, is what Sarah refers to as a ‘Colour Meltdown’, and with the right approach, this can be avoided. This is where Chaulk Education comes in, a brand-neutral colour education platform which enables colourists to reconnect and understand the science behind their work. Sarah has termed this philosophy ‘The Science of Hair’, and from porosity and pigment to light behaviour and alkaliser chemistry, this philosophy goes way beyond technique and gives colourists the tools to understand why colour behaves the way it does.

“When you understand what’s happening inside the hair fibre, and how colour interacts with it, then you’re not thrown off when the product changes. You can read the label, ask the right questions and adjust with confidence,” – Sarah.

Forward-Thinking Colouring

Chaulk education is founded on the principle that no Colourist can achieve consistently excellent bespoke results without understanding how the hair behaves at a structural level. Chaulk is committed to providing the most precise information when analysing hair types, emphasising that colour work should always be based on knowledge, especially when it comes to high-stake services such as colour corrections, where no Colourist should ever be ‘winging it’.

Become a Colour Master

In an industry where colour education is often filtered through brand messaging, Chaulk’s signature course specifically supports Colourists working across systems, helping to gain clarity with brand transitions. It’s a truly unique approach to colour education

Currently touring six cities across the UK, the two-day immersive course combines technical theory with hands-on experimentation. Colourists explore colour formulations from the inside out, covering texture science, light theory, pigment structure, and product interaction in a creative, supportive setting.

The tour is set to reach six UK locations throughout 2025, including Guernsey, London, Glasgow, Jersey, Manchester, and Cardiff. For more information or to attend, please visit – Become a Colour Master