Entry Level Hair and Beauty Course in Huntingdon

CostFee:1154.00 Concession: 161.00
Duration1 year
LevelEntry Level
DeliveryClassroom based
Start3 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

About this course

An Introduction to the Hair and Beauty Sector Course in Huntingdon. Classes run at Cambridge Regional College Huntingdon Campus, full-time during the day. This entry level an introduction to the hair and beauty sector qualification takes one year to complete. You'll explore the core skills and knowledge needed across hairdressing, beauty therapy, and makeup. Entry requirements include 2 GCSEs at grade 2 (E) or above, and you'll take a practical aptitude test as part of the application.

Who this course is for

Thinking about a career in the Hair, Beauty or Makeup Industry?

The Hairdressing, Beauty Therapy and Makeup Industry can be demanding career, requiring good health, stamina, a capacity for hard work, a pleasant personality and the ability to get on with people. If you think that you possess these qualities, you want to learn a range of industry skills and you have a genuine interest in this career route then this introductory course is for you. The introductory course also gives you some dedicated time to improve your English and maths, study your GCSEs and/or improve your grades.

The course will provide you with: · An understanding the importance of a presenting a positive and professional image · Industry specific knowledge and skills across Hairdressing, Beauty and Makeup Artistry · The opportunity to progress to next step in this exciting career

We will introduce you to an industry, where professionalism, creativity and artistry combined with technical skills provide an excellent service experience for your clients. You will develop the behaviours and attitudes expected of a professional hairdresser, therapist or makeup artist. From the reception desk to the salon floor, you will explore the theory behind, learn and practice a range of basic hair and beauty skills such as shampooing, blow-drying, hand, skin care and makeup techniques.

Delivery includes plaiting and twisting, nail artistry or themed face painting, before progressing to level 2 skills preparing you for the next step, such as basic cutting, eye treatments or fashion, photographic makeup.

Entry requirements

You will need 2 GCSEs at grade 2 (E) or above. Potential candidates must demonstrate their commitment and enthusiasm towards a career within the Hair and Beauty industry. Each candidate will be considered on their experience, suitability, school reference showing good attendance and behaviour and a practical aptitude test

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the hair and beauty industry and the range of careers within it.
  • You'll develop an understanding of salon environments and professional standards.
  • You'll practise basic skills in hairdressing and beauty therapy techniques.
  • You'll learn about health, safety, and hygiene in a salon setting.
  • You'll build awareness of client care and communication in a professional context.
  • You'll discover the skills and qualities the industry expects from practitioners.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions and practical activities at Cambridge Regional College Huntingdon Campus. Assessment is carried out through coursework, practical tasks, and observation of your skills in a salon environment. Your progress is assessed throughout the year rather than through a single final exam.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Cambridge Regional College Huntingdon Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Beauty therapist: how to become a beauty therapist after further training
  • Hairdresser: how to become a hairdresser with a Level 2 qualification
  • Salon receptionist: front-of-house role in a hair or beauty salon
  • Nail technician: specialist nail care and treatments
  • Makeup artist: working in retail, events, or media
  • Beauty retail assistant: advising customers on products in a salon or shop

What you could study next

  • Level 1 Certificate in Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy: the natural next step, building practical skills across both disciplines.
  • Level 2 Diploma in Hairdressing: leads toward working as a qualified hairdresser.
  • Level 2 Diploma in Beauty Therapy: the qualification employers look for in beauty therapy roles.

Completing this entry level an introduction to the hair and beauty sector qualification gives you a foundation to move into these Level 1 and Level 2 programmes with confidence.