Adult hairdressing student learning in the 
salon

Level 2 Womens’ Hairdressing

Course Overview

Course Type:

Part Time

Available at:

Available at Fareham tagFareham
Available at Southampton tagSouthampton
Available at Eastleigh tagEastleigh

Course Area:

Hair & Beauty

Course Duration:

1 Year

Available at:

Available at Fareham tagFareham
Available at Southampton tagSouthampton
Available at Eastleigh tagEastleigh

The Course in Detail

If you’re passionate about hair, style and creativity, and enjoy working with people, then a career in hairdressing could be perfect for you. This Level 2 course is your introduction to the industry, helping you build the skills, confidence and hands-on experience needed to begin your career in hairdressing or progress within the profession. With trends constantly evolving and social media shaping the industry, there’s never been a more exciting time to begin your journey.

Completion of this course leads to a VTCT Skills Level 2 Diploma in Women’s Hairdressing, a nationally recognised qualification based on industry standards and designed to prepare you for working in a professional salon environment.
On this course, you’ll learn to cut, colour, style and finish hair using a range of professional techniques while developing the knowledge needed to work safely and effectively in a salon environment.

You’ll cover core skills including:

• Client consultation for hair services
• Shampooing and conditioning the hair and scalp
• Cutting women’s hair using basic techniques
• Colouring and lightening hair
• Styling, setting and dressing hair
• Promoting products and services
• Maintaining high standards of health and safety
• Delivering a professional client experience

Training takes place in our fully equipped, on-site commercial salons, where you’ll work on peers, mannequin heads and real clients. This hands-on approach helps you build confidence, creativity and communication skills in a realistic working environment.

You may also have the opportunity to develop additional techniques such as creative styling, scalp massage, plaiting, and supporting the day-to-day running of a salon through reception duties and stock management.

This is a highly practical course, supported by theory sessions and independent study. You’ll build a portfolio of evidence that includes practical assessments, written work and online exams, demonstrating your progress and achievement throughout the course. You’ll be supported by industry-experienced lecturers who will guide you as you develop your techniques and confidence.

Important Notice
Please note that all courses are subject to minimum numbers. If there are too few enrolments, the College may cancel the course. A place on your chosen course is not confirmed until enrolment is complete and any relevant fees are paid.

Entry Requirements & Progression

What You'll Need

You should be working at a good Level 1 standard for English if you have not already achieved a grade 3/D in GCSE English. If English is not your first language, you will need ESOL Level 1

No hairdressing experience is required; however, students must have a genuine interest in hairdressing, enthusiasm, and commitment. There will be a requirement to do home study as part of the course.

Hairdressing is a practical and physically demanding profession, so a good level of physical health is important. Some skin conditions may prevent you from carrying out certain treatments safely.

Gaining a work experience placement in a salon alongside your course is highly recommended and will support your development.

You will be required to wear salon appropriate clothing and this will be discussed at interview.

You will also need to provide models for your practical assessments. Where colouring services are provided, models may be required to cover the cost of consumables.

This Could Lead to

After successfully completing this course, you can progress to Level 3 Hairdressing, move into employment within in a salon or operate as an independent hairdresser. Hairdressing can open doors to a wide range of opportunities, from working in salons and spas to becoming a freelance or mobile hairdresser, or even travelling the world on cruise ships.

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Availability & Enrolment

Course ID

P2210-2627-S-P1

Start Date

15/09/2026

Start Time

17:30

End Time

21:00

Day of Week

Tuesday and Thursday

Location

Southampton College

Total Fees

£1344

Course ID

P2210-2627-S-P2

Start Date

16/09/2026

Start Time

09:30

End Time

13:00

Day of Week

Wednesday and Friday

Location

Southampton College

Total Fees

£1344

Course ID

P2016-2627-F-P1

Start Date

29/09/2026

Start Time

09:00

End Time

13:00

Day of Week

Tuesday and Wednesday

Location

Fareham College

Total Fees

£1344

Course ID

P2416-2627-E-P1

Start Date

29/09/2026

Start Time

17:30

End Time

20:30

Day of Week

Tuesday and Thursday

Location

Eastleigh College

Total Fees

£1344

College Life & Student Support Services

College is not just about your course – it’s an opportunity to have fun, meet new people and explore your interests! You can socialise with friends in the café and comfy seating areas, join a club or sports team or attend exciting events around the college. Many of our enrichment opportunities are also great on your CV or UCAS application to demonstrate your commitment and enthusiasm outside of your studies.

Your time at college can also be affected by life or health difficulties, and it’s okay to need support. Our specialist teams are here every day to listen and give advice, whether it’s about career planning, financial support, mental health, or something else. And if you have a long-term support need or medical condition, we’ll work with you on personalised learning support to help you achieve your full potential.

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