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

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’.

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). All uniform can be purchased through Preston College, once you begin your course.

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

You will need to purchase the following equipment for this course: Tunic (approx £30) and a Hairdressing kit containing non-serrated scissors, clippers and fun cut razor (approx £150).

As part of your course you will be expected to complete a nominated number of hours of work experience which will be agreed during the induction period.

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

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. 

To find out more, watch this short video from tutor Mandy: 

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.