Hair Professional (Level 2 Standard)

Hairdressers will be able to shampoo and condition hair, cut hair using a range of techniques, style and finish hair to create variety of looks, and colour and lighten hair for both women and men. Hairdressers must be able to work with all hair types ranging from straight hair to very curly, wiry hair. They also need to be able to carry out consultations with clients, demonstrate the professionalism, values, behaviours, communication skills and safe working practices associated with their role and be able to work without supervision to a high level of precision, with exceptional client care skills.

Applicants aged 16–18 who have not achieved GCSE Maths and English at grade 4 (C) or above must work towards and attempt Functional Skills Level 2 in both subjects as part of their apprenticeship programme.

For applicants aged 19 and over, this requirement is optional and can be removed if both the apprentice and employer agree, with the decision formally documented at enrolment.

• Hands-on Training & College Learning: Apprentices work in professional salons or barbershops while attending college one day per week. They learn to consult with clients, deliver hair services, and maintain professional standards allowing them to gain practical experience in cutting, styling, and colouring under supervision.

• Wide-Ranging Curriculum: The course covers shampooing and conditioning, cutting and styling, colouring and lightening, client consultation, and health and safety. Apprentices also develop skills in customer service, product knowledge, and working to industry standards with precision and care.

• Specialist Pathways: Learners may train as either a hairdresser or barber, depending on their interest and employer need. Employers may support additional training in creative styling, hair extensions, or textured hair techniques depending on the salon’s services and clientele.

• Career-Ready Qualification: Upon completion (typically 24 months), apprentices earn a Level 2 qualification and are ready for roles like junior stylist, barber, or Salon Assistant, with progression into Level 3 Advanced and Creative Hair Professional, freelance work, or specialist salon roles.

For a comprehensive understanding of this hairdressing programme and what it entails, please click here.

This hairdressing Apprenticeship is taught at our London Road Campus, at our dedicated training salon, on a day-release basis once a week, typically on a Monday to meet salon needs. If you need to complete your functional skills, then this will be covered at College in a block-week release. In addition, you will be visited at your workplace regularly by your assessor, to assess your practical skills and knowledge as well as review your progress with your employer. You will be required to sit an End Point Assessment, towards the final stages of your programme, to ensure you have obtained the skills, knowledge and behaviours required to do your job effectively.

Typically, this hairdressing Apprenticeship will take 24 months to complete.

To be an apprentice, you will need an employer who can offer you a specific role relevant to this apprenticeship and release you for your training. Once you have an employer in place, you can apply online. If after reading this fact sheet, you are still undecided about the course most suitable for you, please drop into one of our advice events, ring the Apprenticeship Team on 01743 653444 or email apprenticeships@shrewsbury.ac.uk