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Free Level 1 Hair and Beauty Course in Ipswich

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyVTCT awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 1 Hair and Beauty Course in Ipswich. Classes run at Suffolk New College, full-time during the day.

You'll study for one year, gaining hands-on experience in the college's working salon. The course covers hair, beauty, and nail treatments at an introductory level. You'll need two GCSEs at Grade 1, including maths and/or English, or show the ability to work toward Level 1 in those subjects at assessment.

You'll finish with a VTCT Diploma in an Introduction to the Hair and Beauty Sector.

Who this course is for

You have the chance to work while you learn, performing treatments in our modern hair and beauty salon, ‘The Zone’. The Zone creates an outstanding learning environment, helping you gain experience. You will also have the chance to show off your abilities by taking part in events, such as the College’s creative hair show.

Entry requirements

Two GCSEs at Grade 1 including maths and/or English, or demonstrate the ability to work towards Level 1 in maths and English in an assessment.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn the basics of hairdressing, including cutting and styling techniques.
  • You'll practise beauty therapy treatments such as skincare and make-up application.
  • You'll develop nail care skills, including basic manicure techniques.
  • You'll learn health, safety, and hygiene standards for a salon environment.
  • You'll build client communication skills used in professional salon settings.
  • You'll gain practical experience by performing treatments in a real working salon.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions and hands-on practice in Suffolk New College's salon, The Zone. Assessment is practical and knowledge-based, carried out throughout the course. You'll also take part in events such as a creative hair show, giving you the chance to demonstrate your skills in a live setting.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Suffolk New College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Salon assistant, supporting stylists and therapists in a busy salon.
  • Junior hairdresser, starting out on the path to becoming a hairdresser.
  • Beauty therapist assistant, helping with treatments in a beauty salon.
  • Nail technician, providing nail treatments for clients.
  • Receptionist in a salon, handling bookings and client care.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma in Hairdressing, the next step toward working as a qualified hairdresser.
  • Level 2 Diploma in Beauty Therapy, for those who want to specialise in beauty treatments.
  • Level 2 Diploma in Nail Technology, for those focusing on nail services.
  • Apprenticeship in Hairdressing or Beauty Therapy, combining work and study at Level 2.
Apply on suffolk.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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