Hairdressing has long been one of the most popular career choices in the UK for young people, and as an industry can trace its origins all the way back to the ancient Egyptians and Greeks. UK hairdressing is renowned internationally for its creativity and high standards, with much of the world looking at the UK for inspiration.
< Back to
Study Programmes
Study Programmes
Hairdressing & Barbering
We offer three types of hairdressing and barbering study programmes: a mixed hairdressing and barbering, a hairdressing only, and a barbering only. These will all equip you with the essential skills required for success in the industry.
You will experience collaborative, hands-on learning led by expert tutors in our modern, industry-style, fully functioning hair salon at our main site in Mattishall. You will be assigned your own chair stations which will be equipped with all the necessary hairdressing tools. Your learning will be recorded on an easy-to-use e-portfolio platform.
Poultec Facilities Video – click here
City & Guilds Level 1 NVQ Certificate in Hairdressing and Barbering
Our Hairdressing and Barbering course is ideal if you are new to the industry and have little or no experience. You will learn skills and techniques in blow drying hair, shampooing and conditioning hair, assisting with perming/ colouring/ lightening services and more.
Units include:
- Prepare for hair services and maintain work areas
- Contribute to the development of effective working relationships
- Blow dry hair
- Shampoo and condition hair
- Assist with relaxing services
- Assist with salon reception duties
- Assist with hair colouring and lightening services
- Plait and twist hair using basic techniques
- Assist with perming services Remove hair extensions
- Assist with shaving services
City & Guilds Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Barbering
Our Level 2 Barbering course is aimed at individuals new to the industry or those with foundational knowledge and skills. Throughout the programme, you will engage in hands-on experiences with real paying clients in our fully operational salon. You will acquire a diverse skill set, including expertise in cutting facial hair, providing client consultations, assisting with shaving services, and mastering the art of drying and finishing men’s hair, among other essential techniques.
Units included:
- Develop and maintain your effectiveness at work
- Cut men’s hair using basic technique
- Cut facial hair to shape using basic technique
- Dry and finish men’s hair
- Create basic outlines and detailing in hair
- Fulfil salon reception duties
- Assist with shaving services
- Advise and consult with clients
- Shampoo, condition and treat the hair and scalp
City & Guilds Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Hairdressing
Our Level 2 Hairdressing course is perfect for beginners or those with some foundational knowledge and skills in the industry. You will develop a versatile skill set, including client consultation, hair colouring and highlighting, styling and finishing techniques, basic hair cutting methods, hair perming and neutralising, and more.
Units include:
- Working in the hair industry
- Follow health and safety in the salon
- Client consultation for hair services
- Shampoo and condition the hair and scalp
- The Art of Dressing hair
- Salon Reception Duties
- Plaiting and Twisting hair
- Promote products and services to clients in a salon
- Cut Women’s hair
All courses will also offer:
- Functional Skills Maths (if required)
- Functional Skills English (if required)
Entry Requirements:
You must be between the ages of 16-18. There are no formal academic entry requirements; however, an initial selection interview is mandatory.
Progression Opportunities:
There are opportunities to continue your studies in further education such as an Apprenticeship or to gain full-time or part-time employment.
Costs:
If you are 16-18 there are no course fees payable, however you may have some costs associated with uniform, equipment etc.
Hairdressing & Barbering study programmes start in September 2025.
To apply for Level 1 Hairdressing & Barbering – click here
To apply for Level 2 Hairdressing – click here
To apply for Level 2 Barbering – click here