Level 2 Hair Professional Apprenticeship

About this course

Apprenticeships are a popular choice for people aged 16 or above, looking for on the job training and the opportunity to gain nationally recognised qualifications whilst earning. Most of your training will be directly linked to the career you have chosen, gaining practical experience in the workplace.

An apprenticeship in hairdressing will develop your employability skills and give you valuable experience in hairdressing related activities. You will need to work in a hairdressing environment, working a minimum of 30 hours per week (including training time). As an apprentice, you will need a contract of employment.

Apprenticeship vacancies can be found at www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk

Job Roles

You will be working in a hairdressing environment, where your duties could cover a range of skills including meeting and advising customers, cutting and styling hair and colouring hair. Your exact duties will depend upon your employer.

What will the course involve?

To gain the full apprenticeship you will work towards the following qualifications:

• City & Guilds Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Hairdressing
• Functional Skills Level 1 in Maths and English

Mandatory units include:

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

Optional units can include:

• Plait and twist hair
• Fulfil salon reception duties
• Cut men’s hair using basic techniques

What qualifications will I need?

There are no formal entry requirements to take these qualifications, however apprentices must be ready to undertake Level 1 Functional Skills in Maths and English.

You will need to demonstrate an interest in working in the hairdressing sector.

All applicants for apprenticeship training will be required to attend an interview and undertake initial assessments.

How will I be assessed?

You will be continually assessed throughout your training by either online programmes or by attendance at college. Most of the assessment will take place in the workplace to complete a portfolio of evidence, you will also take external and internal examinations for your functional skills (if required). Your progress will be reviewed regularly and achievable targets set, to ensure you complete your apprenticeship on time.

If you have achieved Grade C or above in Maths and English (or Grade 4 or above on the new grading scheme), you will not be required to undertake Functional Skills.

If you have achieved less than these grades, you will be required to achieve a minimum Level 1 Functional Skills prior to or during the apprenticeship. These will be assessed through external examinations and workshops.

Next Steps

On successful completion of this apprenticeship you could progress on to a permanent position in a hairdressing salon as a junior stylist or progress on to an Advanced Apprenticeship (Level 3) in Hairdressing.

Careers may take place in a variety of locations including salons, spas, hospitals, care homes, stores, hotels and holiday resorts as well as working freelance. Typical salary on completion of apprenticeship is £16,000.