Level 1 Hair and Beauty Therapy Course in Wigan – Wigan Skills Centre

CostFree if you're eligible
Duration30 weeks
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyGateway Qualifications awarding body

Free or reduced fees may be available, depending on your circumstances. Contact GC Education and Skills for more info.

About this course

Level 1 Hair and Beauty Therapy Course in Wigan. Classes run at Wigan Skills Centre, full-time during the day, over 30 weeks. The course is free if you're 16 to 18 years old. If you're 19 to 24 with an Education, Health and Care Plan, fees may not apply. Contact the centre to check your eligibility.

You'll explore the core skills and knowledge behind the course. Topics include skincare, hair techniques, nail care, and the basics of working in a salon environment. There are no formal entry requirements, so you can start without previous experience in the industry.

You'll finish with a Gateway Qualifications Certificate in Hair and Beauty Therapy.

Who this course is for

This course is designed for 16 - 18-year-olds who want to develop their skills, confidence and industry knowledge with a Gateway Qualifications Level 1 Award, Certificate or Diploma in Hair and Beauty Therapy.

This course provides a practical introduction to the hair and beauty industry, helping learners explore career opportunities while developing valuable employability and personal development skills. Designed for young people who enjoy hands-on learning, the qualification provides a foundation for further study, apprenticeships and future employment within the hair and beauty sector.

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn the fundamentals of skincare and facial treatments.
  • You'll practise basic hair techniques used in a salon setting.
  • You'll develop nail care skills, including preparation and finishing.
  • You'll explore how a professional salon operates day to day.
  • You'll build employability skills relevant to the hair and beauty industry.
  • You'll gain an understanding of health, safety, and hygiene in a beauty environment.

How you will learn

You'll learn through hands-on, practical sessions in the classroom. Tutors will guide you through demonstrations and supervised practice. Assessment is based on practical tasks and observations carried out during the course, alongside short written or knowledge-based activities. There are no exams at the end.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Wigan Skills Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Salon assistant, supports stylists and therapists in a busy salon.
  • Beauty therapist, carries out treatments such as facials and nail care.
  • Hairdresser, cuts and styles hair for clients in a salon.
  • Nail technician, specialises in nail treatments and nail art.
  • Receptionist in a salon, manages bookings and greets clients.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma in Hair and Beauty Therapy, the next step toward working independently as a therapist or stylist.
  • Level 2 Diploma in Hairdressing, for those who want to focus specifically on hair.
  • Level 2 Diploma in Beauty Therapy, for those drawn toward skincare and beauty treatments.
  • An apprenticeship in Hairdressing or Beauty Therapy, combining paid work with further training.

Related courses at Wigan Skills Centre

More courses near you