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16-18 Courses, 16-18: Vocational

Hairdressing (Level 2)

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Course Overview

Entry requirements

Grade 3 English Language GCSE or L1 Functional Skill English, Grade 3 Maths GCSE or L1 Functional Skill Maths, 4 GCSEs at Grade 3

Course information

This qualification is based on the Hairdressing National Occupational Standards (NOS) and is recognised by the UK's leading professional body, The Hairdressing Council, as being fit for purpose for preparing students for a career as a junior hairdresser/stylist.

The aim of the course is to develop hairdressing skills and knowledge and it will also enable you to perform your own services and to assist others in the salon. Students will gather evidence for assessment through the study of mandatory and optional units, in a real working environment without the need for fee-paying clients.

Find out more about the salons you will be working in here.

The qualification's structure provides students with the flexibility to develop the knowledge, understanding and skills depending upon their designated career pathway within the hair industry.

Key topics

The units you may study include:

  • Shampooing and conditioning hair
  • Research unit - working in the hair industry
  • Cutting women's hair
  • Colouring hair
  • The art of dressing hair
  • Client consultation
  • Health and safety

You can also select a number of optional units which include:

  • Reception duties
  • Creating an image based on a theme
  • Providing scalp massage services
  • Promoting products and services to clients
  • Perming hair

  • How you are assessed

    Practical assessments and paper-based assignments and tests.

  • Why study at NCC?

    • We are Ofsted-rated Outstanding, so you can expect exceptional teaching and support you can trust
    • Expert tutors bring real-world industry experience into every lesson
    • Flexible learning options let you tailor study to your life and ambitions
    • Broad career pathways: from entry level through to professional qualifications
    • One-to-one support with academic advice, wellbeing services and financial guidance
    • Modern, industry-standard facilities: labs, workshops, digital tools and performance spaces
    • Courses co-designed with employers to match local and national job markets
    • Strong employer partnerships offer placements, live projects and networking opportunities
    • A supportive, inclusive community where you can flourish and succeed

    At New City College, you’ll do more than learn hair and beauty, you’ll train for a thriving career in this fast-paced, creative industry. Working in our professional salons and studios, you’ll practise on real clients, using the latest tools and products to build the skills, confidence and experience employers want.

    With partnerships with leading brands like Toni & Guy and Eve Taylor, you’ll graduate job-ready and ahead of the curve. From styling to skincare, you’ll be taught by expert tutors and gain valuable work experience in top salons.

    Plus, with international trips, like learning traditional beauty techniques in Thailand, you’ll broaden your skills and cultural knowledge.

Select your campus option to apply

What Can This Course Lead To

Successful students are eligible to become a graduate State Registered Hairdresser (SRH) with The Hairdressing Council. They can progress to career opportunities in a variety of contexts as a junior hairdresser/stylist, including working in commercial hair salons, in specialist African type hair salons, product manufacturing and training, television, film, theatre and media, the Armed Services, HM prison service and on cruise liners. Or they can work independently as a self-employed hairdresser, a mobile hairdresser or a home-based hairdresser. Whilst this qualification's primary purpose is to prepare students for employment, you may choose to develop your skills further by undertaking higher qualifications in hairdressing at Level 3. These include the VTCT Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Hairdressing (apprenticeship), or the VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Hairdressing.

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Facilities for Students

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Financial Support

There are several ways we can help you cover the cost of your studies.
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