Is it for me?
This course covers all the skills learners will require to become a professional colourist in the hairdressing industry. This carefully designed programme includes both theory and practical lessons alongside a commercial salon session ensuring access to paying clients to establish a 'real working environment'. Usually learners will attend College for three days. The remaining two days are allocated for personal study. Learners will need to find a salon placement which will build relationships in the industry, and could lead to employment in the future. This qualification is open to students of any age and prior experience.
What you'll learn
This course is the first year of a two year course that is recognised in industry as the standard required by all new hairdressers to begin their career in hairdressing. Students will be required to learn all the relevant units that relate to colouring, styling and perming including shampooing, blow-drying and styling, setting and dressing, , changing hair colour and advising and consulting with clients. This qualification will provide learners with the knowledge, understanding and skills to work competently as a hairdresser.
Theory is formatively assessed through mandatory exams held on set dates with one re-sit opportunity, with some units requiring an assignment to show their understanding. Each unit will be practically assessed whilst learners work on paying clients in the salon session, during which they will be supervised and supported throughout. Oral assessment is also used to support practical and written evidence. End of second term practical synoptic exams (practical trade) tests and Exams will form your final grade of Pass/Merit/Distinction.
Learners will be assigned a Personal Support Tutor who will set up their individual learning plan, and their tutor will meet with them on a one-to-one basis throughout the year to discuss targets and progress through the programme. Learners will be assured of any learning and personal support they require. Organised trips and visiting speakers are part of the course and are relevant to the hairdressing industry; they provide enrichment and inspiration for the learner's chosen profession.
Any student aged 16 to 19 who does not hold a GCSE A* to C (9 to 4 on the new grading structure) or equivalent qualifications in Maths and English by age 16 will need to continue to study these subjects in each academic year.
Equipment required for the course
Upon enrolment for this course learners will receive order forms that list all the equipment, tools and uniform requirements of the course. The uniform will consist of black tailored trousers, smart leggings, a tunic top, plain black cardigan and flat black closed shoes. Learners will be required to purchase tuition/mannequin heads that will be used to learn all the practical skills for hairdressing.
An equipment list will include all electrical equipment, combs, brushes and scissors needed, including a kit bag. Each learner will be required to have access to the recommended text book that supports the knowledge delivered for this course. You may need to consider an additional cost for trips and activities throughout the year.
Assessment
This course has an end point practical assessment, similar to a trade test, this covers practical skills and behaviours of the professional hairdresser, this happens at the start of the third term. There will also be and end of course exam at the end of the second term, this covers theory taught across all 5 units of hairdressing. Both elements must be completed and achieved in order to achieve a full qualification.
Days & times
Starting September 2024