Level 2 Diploma in Hairdressing Studies

Course Code

Hairdressing VRQ

Course Duration

1 year

Location

Central Campus

Start Date

1 September, 2025
Sandwell College student (hairdressing student)

This Level 2 Diploma in hairdressing studies VRQ is an assessment-based qualification for school leavers and adults who wish to pursue a career in hairdressing. When learners finish this course, they will be Level 2 qualified and can start work as a first-year improver in a hairdressing salon.

  • GCSE Grade 3 or above in English and Maths, ESOL or Functional Skills Level 1
  • Adult learners will need to have ESOL Level 1 or equivalent.

This Level 2 Diploma is the main qualification for learners who wish to pursue a career in hairdressing and aimed at school leavers and adults. The course will equip learners with the essential skills and knowledge required to be successful within the industry.

Learners will have the opportunity to develop their practical and employability skills to help further develop their knowledge of the industry and gain experience through work experience placements or within our own Bliss hairdressing salon.

The course consists of studying the following units;

· Following health and safety practices in the salon

· Client consultation for hair services

· Shampooing and conditioning the hair and scalp

· The art of colouring hair

· Colouring and lightening hair

· Cutting hair using a variety of techniques

· The art of dressing hair

· Promoting products and services to clients in a salon

Costs:

This course is funded for 16/18-year-olds

Adults who do not hold a Level 2 or are in receipt of benefits may be eligible for fees to be funded.

Students are required to purchase a kit however students can apply for a bursary to support the cost if they are eligible.

Uniform will be provided by the department but appropriate shoes will need to be purchased.

Facilities: 

Students will benefit from studying in our state-of-the-art professional salons for hair, beauty, barbering and nails. There will be real clients for you to practise on in our Bliss Hair & Beauty Salons under close supervision by our highly experienced and dedicated staff.

· AHT/ World skills competitions

· Matrix workshops led by employers

· Harry Potter World workshop visit

· Professional hairdressing Seminar London

· Hair extensions training led by employers

Formative and summative assessment via practical observations based on individual performance to assess the level of competency.

Theory knowledge is assessed via multiple-choice online exams and/or assignments and work packs. All exams are marked externally by the awarding body, and your final grade will be a Pass.

Practical demonstrations and knowledge sessions will be provided to prepare for assessments and exams.

Once completed, Learners will be able to progress onto the following courses:

· Level 3 Diploma in Hairdressing- Advanced

· Level 2 Diploma in Barbering

· Level 2 Diploma in Nails

· Level 2 Diploma in Beauty

 

Career pathways include the following:

· Hairdressing salons

· Self-employed Hairdressing

· Cruise ships

· Representative for product brand

· Retail demonstrator

· NHS Hospital/Care Homes

· HM Prisons

· TV, film, theatre and media

Course Details

Qualification

Exam Board

Study Mode

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Located in West Bromwich, Sandwell College boasts best in class facilities and exceptional teaching standards.
Alongside delivering outstanding pass rates, the College is proud to offer unrivalled mental health services and welfare support, ensuring that every student has access to the advice and guidance they need.

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