Hairdressing, Level 1

Course Information

Overview

Our Hairdressing Level 1 course provides a strong foundation in hairdressing, combining practical experience with industry-relevant knowledge. You will develop essential salon skills while gaining an understanding of professional standards, client care and the day-to-day operation of a salon environment.

Throughout the course, you will build confidence, creativity and practical hairdressing skills through hands-on learning and real-world activities. This course prepares you for progression to Level 2 Hairdressing, apprenticeships, further training or employment within the hair and beauty industry.

What you'll learn

You will learn about:

• The hair and beauty industry and professional salon practice.
• Presenting a professional image and working effectively with clients and colleagues.
• Shampooing, conditioning, dressing and styling hair.
• Applying temporary hair colour and creating hair and beauty images.
• Salon reception duties and customer service skills.
• Plaiting and twisting techniques, barbering skills and creative styling.
• Styling and finishing Afro-textured hair.
• Scalp massage and creative hair styling techniques.
• Health and safety, salon presentation and retail awareness.
• Professional behaviours, communication and teamwork.

Units you will study

• Follow Health and Safety in the Salon
• Shampoo and Conditioning
• Style Hair Using Hairdressing Techniques
• Plaiting and Twisting Hair
• Promote Products and Services to Clients in a Salon
• Introduction to the Hair and Beauty Sector
• Working with Others
• Presenting a Professional Image
• Temporary Hair Colour
• The Art of Dressing Hair
• Creating a Hair and Beauty Image
• Salon Reception Duties
• Creating and Maintaining Retail Displays

Units studied may vary and are subject to awarding body requirements.

Entry requirements

• GCSE grades 1-2, or equivalent qualifications, including English and Maths where applicable.
• A strong interest in hairdressing and the hair and beauty industry.
• A willingness to take part in practical sessions, group work and independent study.
• A positive attitude towards developing confidence, communication and professional salon skills.

How you'll be assessed

Assessment is designed to reflect real industry practice and allows you to demonstrate both your practical skills and knowledge.

• Coursework and written assignments, including projects, case studies and written questions.
• Practical assessments observed by your assessor while carrying out hairdressing services safely and professionally.
• Presentations, demonstrations and oral questioning.
• A portfolio of evidence, which may be electronic or paper-based.

Your portfolio may include observed work, witness statements, photographs, audio-visual evidence, assignments, professional discussions and evidence of prior learning. Your assessor will support you in collecting suitable evidence throughout the course.

Where this course can take you

After successfully completing this course, you could progress to:

• Level 2 Hairdressing.
• Level 2 Beauty Therapy, where appropriate.
• Hairdressing apprenticeships.
• Further training in barbering, beauty therapy or related subjects.
• Junior Hairdresser or Salon Assistant roles.

This course can also support future careers in:

• Hairdressing and salon services.
• Barbering and men's grooming.
• Freelance and mobile hairdressing.
• Braiding, plaiting and textured hair services.
• Salon reception and customer service.
• Retail and product promotion within the hair and beauty industry.

Why study this course at SHC

• Industry visits, trips and enrichment opportunities linked to hairdressing and the wider hair and beauty industry.
• Practical workshops and masterclasses with visiting industry professionals.
• Strong links with local salons, employers and community organisations.
• Specialist Hair & Beauty salon facilities that provide a realistic working environment.
• The annual SHC Hair & Beauty Show, where students can showcase their creativity and practical skills.
• Opportunities to work on community events, live projects and salon activities.
• Experience of working with real clients while developing communication, teamwork and customer service skills.

These experiences help students build confidence, practical skills, industry awareness and a professional portfolio, preparing them for progression to Level 2 Hairdressing, apprenticeships and future employment.

Course Code: 0035/1