Free Level 1 Hairdressing and Barbering Course in Ipswich. Classes run at Suffolk New College, full-time during the day. You'll spend time working in The Zone, the college's modern hair and beauty salon, gaining hands-on experience with real clients alongside your classroom learning. The course runs for one year and covers the core skills of hairdressing and barbering. You may also take part in events such as the college's creative hair show. Entry requires two GCSEs at Grade 1 including maths and/or English, or you can demonstrate the ability to work toward Level 1 in an assessment.
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 practise cutting and styling hair techniques used in professional salons and barbershops.
You'll learn how to shampoo, condition, and treat the scalp.
You'll develop barbering skills including clipper and scissor work.
You'll learn how to consult with clients and identify their needs.
You'll gain experience working with clients in a salon environment.
You'll build knowledge of health, safety, and hygiene standards in hair and beauty settings.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions and practical work in the college's training salon, The Zone. Assessment is hands-on: you'll demonstrate techniques on clients and be observed carrying out treatments. You'll also complete written or knowledge-based tasks to support your practical work. Taking part in events such as the college's creative hair show forms part of your experience.
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
Hairdresser: how to become a hairdresser in a salon or freelance.
Barber: how to become a barber working in a barbershop.
Salon junior or apprentice: entry-level role assisting senior stylists.
Shampoo technician: supporting stylists with washing and conditioning treatments.
Hair and beauty assistant: general salon support while building skills.
What you could study next
Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Hairdressing: the next step toward working as a qualified hairdresser, covering a wider range of cutting, colouring, and styling services.
Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Barbering: builds on your barbering skills and is the recognised qualification for working as a barber.
A hairdressing or barbering apprenticeship: lets you earn while you train toward a Level 2 qualification with an employer.
