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HAIRDRESSING STUDIES - LEVEL 2 NVQ DIPLOMA

Awarded By: VTCT
Duration: 35 Weeks
Level: Level 2

If you enjoy working with others and talking to people, the Level 2 hairdressing course provides a wealth of opportunities for both career progression and change. This course allows all learners to develop both skills and technical knowledge in our on-site salon, providing real opportunities to progress into industry as a confident stylist or onto the Level 3 hairdressing course.

In addition to classroom learning, you will visit world renowned Wella at least twice a year, for focused teaching days that cover everything from ‘on-trend’ colouring to cutting and will have numerous opportunities to hear from guest speakers and enter competitions, such as ‘Xposure’ and ‘Create an Image’.

Course Information

Duration: 17 September 2025 - 26 June 2026

When: Wednesday 10:15am - 1:10pm, Thursday 9:15am - 2:55pm and Friday 9:15am - 4.05pm

WHAT WILL I LEARN?

This qualification is based on the national occupational standards for hairdressing and includes all the required elements to work effectively as a Junior Hairdresser/Stylist. To successfully achieve the qualification, you must pass all mandatory modules, which include: 

  • Advise and consult with clients
  • Set and dress hair
  • Styles and finish hair
  • Develop and maintain your effectiveness at work
  • Cut hair using basic techniques
  • Colour and lighten hair
  • Shampoo, condition and treat the hair and scalp

Throughout the qualification you will develop your knowledge and understanding of relevant anatomy and physiology and health and safety. In addition, you will develop the knowledge, understanding and skills to advise and consult with clients and then provide a complete hairdressing service which includes, shampooing and conditioning, colouring, cutting and setting and dressing, and styling and finishing hair. In parallel, you will develop your communication and customer service skills, awareness of environmental sustainability and commercial skills, all of which are valued highly by employers. Problem-solving and research skills will also be developed.

In addition to completing mandatory modules, you are required to achieve nine credits from optional modules which include (this list is not exhaustive):

  • Remove hair extensions
  • Relax hair
  • Perm and neutralise hair
  • Plait and twist hair
  • Temporarily attach hair to enhance a style

HOW WILL I BE TAUGHT?

As a hairdressing learner at Preston College, you will perfect your skills in our on-site bespoke salon, Elements. The salon is a fully furnished hair salon, where you will learn on mannequin heads, fellow learners and paying customers. Paying customers are members of the public who often visit Elements for the great prices and customer friendly experience offered by our learners.

As well as working in the salons, you will spend time in the classroom and in workshops, allowing you to enhance your skills, ready for salon work.

In addition to classroom learning, you will visit world renowned Wella at least twice a year, for focused teaching days that cover everything from ‘on-trend’ colouring to cutting and will have numerous opportunities to hear from guest speakers and enter competitions, such as ‘Xposure’ and ‘Create an Image’.

You will be required to wear all black clothing whilst working in the salon environment. 

All equipment and consumables will be provided for this course. 

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

  • Practical Assessments & Tasks
  • Portfolio of Evidence
  • Oral Questioning
  • Written & Online Tests
  • Assignments

WHAT CAN I DO NEXT?

Successful completion of this course will allow you to progress onto the Level 3 Hairdressing course at Preston College.

IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I NEED TO KNOW?

In order to develop your technical skills, you will be required to purchase professional equipment. Preston College recognises that kit and uniform costs can be a worry, but you may be entitled to financial support from the college bursary. Full details of the required kit and uniform will be provided to you on your first day.

This course involves using chemicals, liquids and aerosols which could be harmful to your health if you have a predisposition to certain skin conditions or allergies, such as occupational dermatitis, eczema or asthma. 

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

You need a Level 2 English qualification and a successful interview with a course tutor. You will also need good people, communication and dexterity skills as well as a desire to work with the public in a professional manner.

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