Free Level 1 An Introduction to the Hair and Beauty Sector Course in Widnes. Classes run at Riverside College Kingsway Campus, full-time during the day. Over the course of a year, you'll explore both hairdressing and beauty therapy, working in a realistic salon environment to build practical skills. You'll cover setting and blow drying, long hair styling, nail treatments, facial massage, and fashion makeup. This level 1 an introduction to the hair and beauty sector qualification is a strong first step into the industry.
Who this course is for
Aimed at School Leavers. This course looks at the exciting world of beauty therapy and hairdressing. You will study the hair and beauty sector and work in a realistic salon environment to create and develop your practical skills including setting and blow drying, long hair styling, nail treatments, facial massage, and work on fashion makeup designs. You will learn to improve your knowledge of the industry and boost your confidence whilst presenting a professional image.
Entry requirements
Specific course entry criteria alongside your GCSE results will determine the level you start at. Specific grades are required in certain subjects. Find out about the individual entry requirements and level in the course information on the college website or at your interview.
What you will learn
You'll practise setting and blow drying hair techniques in a salon environment.
You'll develop long hair styling skills.
You'll carry out nail treatments.
You'll perform facial massage.
You'll create fashion makeup designs.
You'll build knowledge of how the hair and beauty industry works.
You'll learn how to present a professional image in a salon setting.
How you will learn
You'll learn through hands-on practical sessions in a salon environment alongside classroom study. Assessment is based on practical work and knowledge tasks completed throughout the course. Entry requirements are confirmed at interview, where your GCSE results and individual circumstances will be taken into account to determine the right level for you.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Riverside College Kingsway Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Salon junior or apprentice: assist stylists and beauty therapists in a professional salon.
Nail technician: provide nail treatments and nail art for clients.
Beauty salon receptionist: front-of-house role in a hair or beauty setting.
Makeup artist assistant: support on shoots, events, or in retail beauty.
What you could study next
Level 2 Diploma in Hairdressing: the next step if you want to work as a hairdresser, covering cutting, colouring, and styling.
Level 2 Diploma in Beauty Therapy: moves into skincare, waxing, and massage treatments in more depth.
Level 2 Diploma in Nail Technology: specialist route for those focusing on nail services.
All three build directly on the skills covered in this introduction to the hair and beauty sector course.
