The Hairdressing Level 3 Diploma provides natural progression for those who have successfully completed a Level 2 Diploma in this subject, providing the knowledge, skills and confidence to undertake additional in-salon services that customers have come to expect, including creative cutting and styling, creative colouring and colour correction.
The qualification covers all of the specific skills needed to become a Senior Stylist.
Learners on the course are encouraged to seek and undertake a work placement as part of the programme, with many previous learners successfully securing employment in the salon upon successful completion of the course.
Please note: This course starts in September 2025. You may apply now; however, applications will not be processed until enrolments open in April 2025. A course advisor will reach out once we can proceed with your application.
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
As part of the Level 3 Hairdressing Diploma you will study four mandatory modules:
Creatively style and dress hair
Creatively cut hair using a combination of techniques
Creatively colour and lighten hair
Provide client consultation services
You will then be able to select a minimum of two optional modules from a range of ten, with options including:
Provide hair extension services
Create a variety of permed effects
Hair colour correction services
Upon successful completion of the course you will be eligible to become a State Registered Hairdresser (SRH) with The Hairdressing Council.
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 work on fellow learners and paying customers, under the supervision of a Salon Manager. Paying customers are members of the public who often visit Elements for the great prices and customer friendly experience on offer.
As well as working in the salons, you will spend time in the classroom and in workshops, allowing you to enhance already held hairdressing abilities and develop skills in more complex areas. Typically, you will split your time between full days of commercial salon work, workshop demonstrations and in-class theory sessions, as the course is studied over two full days per week for a full academic year.
All learners at level 3 are encouraged to seek and undertake a work experience placement, as very often this leads to employment as a stylist, upon successful completion of the course.
In addition to classroom learning, world renowned Wella will visit college to provide bespoke teaching days throughout the year. You will also have numerous opportunities to hear from guest speakers and enter competitions.
As our on-site facilities reflect industry working practices, you will be required to purchase and wear the official Elements uniform for your time on the course. This consists of a tunic (£14) and trousers (£14). You will also be required to purchase a full hairdressing kit. Both uniform and kit can be purchased through Preston College, once you begin your course.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
To successfully pass the course, you must complete all assignment work, written papers and pass each practical task (assessed via tutor observation).
WHAT CAN I DO NEXT?
Whilst this qualification's primary purpose is to prepare you for employment as a Senior Stylist, you may choose to complement your skills base or become a specialist in a particular field of hairdressing by undertaking advanced specialist qualifications at Level 4. Examples include:
Level 4 Certificate in Salon Management
Level 4 Diploma in Salon Management
Level 4 Certificate in Specialist Hair and Scalp Services
Level 4 Certificate in Hair Colour Correction
Level 4 Award in Advanced Hair Styling
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I NEED TO KNOW?
To successfully pass the course, you must complete all assignment work, written papers and pass each practical task (assessed via tutor observation).
To ensure that you are able to undertake all salon work, you will be required to purchase a hairdressing kit, which consists of essential hairdressing tools, products and a uniform. More information will be provided to you on your first day.
Preston College recognises that kit and uniform costs can be a worry, but did you know that you may be entitled to financial support from the college bursary? Full details will be provided at enrolment, in your Welcome Brochure.
To find out more, watch this short video from tutor Mandy:
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Applicants must be able to evidence that they hold a relevant and accepted Level 2 Hairdressing Diploma qualification.
