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The VTCT Level 2 Diploma in Women's Hairdressing is a substantial vocational qualification for learners seeking a career as an employed and/or self-employed hairdresser / stylist.

This qualification is based on the hairdressing National Occupational Standards (NOS) and is recognised by the UK's leading professional body (The Hairdressing Council) as being fit for purpose for preparing learners for a career as a junior hairdresser/stylist.

This qualification includes all the required elements to work effectively as a junior hairdresser / stylist including: health and safety; client consultation; shampoo and conditioning hair; the research unit - working in the hair industry; cut women’s hair; colour and lighten hair and the art of dressing hair. These units are all mandatory. Learners will also develop their understanding and skills by selecting a number of optional specialist units which include: promoting products and services to clients; and colouring hair. This qualification's structure provides learners with the flexibility to develop the knowledge, understanding and skills depending upon their designated career pathway as a hairdresser / stylist. Guest speakers are booked in during the academic year to enhance your learning experience and knowledge. During the academic year there will be opportunities to enrich your learning. You will have the opportunity to go to Hair shows which are held in Manchester in October and Birmingham later on in the academic year. You will take part in competitions in house, across our colleges and have the opportunity to enter the world skills competitions. This will prepare you to work in a competitive environment whilst enhancing your professionalism, communication and working as part of a team. You will also have the option of attending additional courses where you can enhance your skills helping you to gain employment. The expectation is that all learners will complete one full day per week of work placement during the academic year. Learners are advised to seek work placement ready for starting the course.

Students will learn;

• The Art of Dressing Hair
• Cut Women’s Hair
• Shampoo and Condition the Hair and Scalp
• The Art of Colouring Hair
• Working in the Hair Industry
• Client Consultation for Hair Services
• Colour and Lighten Hair
• Promote Products and Services to Clients in a Salon
• Health and Safety

Level 2 Diploma in Hairdressing

Functional skills, or GCSE in Maths and English.

The basis of this VRQ system is the collection of evidence to show you can work to the VRQ Level 2 standards. The course is delivered using a combination of practical work backed up by theoretical sessions. You will spend time in Carlisle College's own commercial salon, which is open to the public. This will encourage you to deal with clients confidently, tactfully and sympathetically. A work placement in a local salon is an integral part of the course. In order to successfully complete your practical skill assessments, students are requested to provide suitable clients for treatments. Clients will be charged according to the salon price list available from the Hair and Beauty Reception. Enrichment activities are an integral part of the course. You will undertake work placement to help consolidate learning.

As part of this qualification, you are required to produce a portfolio of evidence. A portfolio will confirm the knowledge, understanding and skills that you have learnt. It may be in electronic or paper format. Your assessor will provide guidance on how to prepare the portfolio of evidence and how to show practical achievement, and understanding of the knowledge required to successfully complete this qualification. Evidence in the portfolio may take the following forms: Observed work through practical sessions – during practical sessions we encourage you to mirror a professional working environment. Initially setting expectations to ensure you recognise how to demonstrate professionalism. We will explore language that should be used and shouldn’t be used in a professional environment. We will ensure that you are respected and given equal opportunities. Witness statements, Written questions, Online exams, Oral questions, Assignments, Case studies

• 4 GCSEs at Grade 3 (D) including Maths and English,
• Level 1 vocational qualification,
• Level 1 Functional skills qualification in English and Maths or the equivalent is desirable,
• or Scottish equivalent.
• A friendly, mature approach and the ability to communicate effectively are essential along with a high level of personal hygiene, personal presentation and awareness of health and safety
• Please note that entry requirements and course offer can be subject to change at any time.

This course will offer you enhanced career prospects in a number of opportunities within the Hairdressing industry. After two years of salon experience, you may also have the chance to progress onto Level 3 Hairdressing, following successful completion of all parts of the course, functional skills qualifications, and passing interview criteria.

Other Details:

Students will be expected to purchase a Hairdressing kit and uniform, which must be worn to every session – price on application.