16-18 Courses, 16-18: Vocational

Hairdressing (Level 3 Diploma)

Course Overview

Entry requirements

GCSE Average Points Score: 3.5, Grade 4 English Language GCSE, Grade 4 Maths GCSE, 5 GCSEs at Grade 4

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 senior hairdresser/stylist.

This qualification builds on existing skills, knowledge and understanding of hairdressing and enables the student to develop an enhanced repertoire of technical skills to prepare them for employment as a senior hairdresser or stylist. Students should have studied a Level 2 qualification in Hairdressing prior to undertaking this qualification and entry onto the course will be via achievement of the Level 2 in Hairdressing Diploma, and GCSEs in Maths and English at grade 4 or above, and a successful skills test and interview.

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 units you may study include:

  • advanced cutting
  • styling and colouring techniques
  • health and safety
  • client consultation
  • selling products and services to clients

Students will further develop their understanding and skills by selecting a number of optional units to study, which include hair colour correction and specialist scalp services, bridal hairstyling, and marketing for the hair and beauty sector.

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.

  • How you are assessed

    Practical assessments and paper-based assignments and tests.
  • Why study at NCC?

    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 senior hairdresser/stylist.

Select your campus option to apply

What Can This Course Lead To

Progress to university, further study, a higher level apprenticeship or employment.

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 an advanced hairdresser/senior 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, in hospitals and care homes and on cruise liners. Or they can work independently as a self-employed hairdresser, 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 advanced specialist qualifications at Level 4.

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Facilities for Students

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Financial Support

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