Level 1 Hairdressing and Barbering Course in Birmingham – Longbridge Campus

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

About this course

Free Level 1 Hairdressing and Barbering Course in Birmingham. Classes run at Longbridge Campus. You'll study full-time during the day, covering shampooing, blow-drying, styling, basic colouring, client care, and health and safety. The course takes one year. To enrol, you'll need at least an Entry Level 3 Functional Skills English qualification or GCSE Grade 1 in English. If you don't have evidence of a recognised English qualification, you'll take an initial assessment at the start.

Who this course is for

This introductory course is perfect for anyone looking to start a career in barbering. You�ll develop fundamental skills such as shampooing, blow-drying, styling, and basic grooming techniques. You�ll also gain essential knowledge about workplace health and safety, preparing you for further training and entry-level roles in the barbering industry.

Entry requirements

A positive attitude and a willingness to work hard. * Additionally, you should have at least a minimum of an Entry Level 3 qualification in Functional Skills English or GCSE Grade 1

What you will learn

  • You'll practise shampooing and conditioning techniques on training heads and live models.
  • You'll develop blow-drying and styling skills for a range of hair types.
  • You'll learn basic colouring techniques and how to apply them safely.
  • You'll understand how to consult with clients and deliver good client care.
  • You'll apply health and safety procedures relevant to a salon environment.
  • You'll build awareness of professional standards expected in hairdressing and barbering.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical hands-on sessions in a salon environment, classroom-based theory lessons, and tutor demonstrations. You'll work on training heads and live models throughout the course. Assessment is ongoing and covers both your practical skills and your understanding of the theory behind each technique.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Longbridge Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Salon assistant: support stylists in a professional salon setting.
  • Junior hairdresser: assist with client services under supervision.
  • Barber: how to become a barber starts with this foundation level.
  • Hairdresser: how to become a hairdresser, building toward Level 2 and beyond.
  • Shampoo technician: specialist role in busy salons and spas.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma in Hairdressing: the natural next step, covering a full range of cutting, colouring, and styling techniques needed for independent salon work.
  • Hairdressing or Barbering Apprenticeship: combine paid work in a salon with structured training toward a Level 2 qualification.
  • Level 2 Diploma in Barbering: if you want to focus specifically on barbering techniques and men's grooming.

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