Level 1 Hairdressing and Beauty Course in Hitchin

CostFREE
Duration36 weeks
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start2 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

About this course

Free Level 1 Hairdressing and Beauty Sector Course in Hitchin. Classes run at Hitchin Centre, full-time during the day, over 36 weeks. You'll build practical skills in beauty treatments, nail care, make-up, client consultations, and salon working practices. Sessions combine hands-on salon work with classroom learning, plus work experience with real paying clients and industry visits. There are no formal entry requirements. An interview is used to confirm the course is the right fit for you.

Who this course is for

Our hair, beauty and holistic therapy courses include lots of opportunities for you to get hands-on experience of the world of work, including:Work experience with businesses including Champney?s, Bannatyne Spa Fairfield, Aqua-Sana, Center Parcs, Wella and local theatre companiesThe opportunity to help run Hart Salon, working with paying customersVisits to businesses and major events such as Salon International, Pro Hair Live, Baber UK, Victoria & Albert Museum and Professional Beauty ShowWorkshops including Dermalogica and Wella London, tanning, advanced waxing and stone therapy.Your course will be a mix of practical salon, classroom and workplace sessions with employers including Bannatynes, Champneys and the Lister Hospital.Areas of study include preparing and maintaining the work area, assisting with facial skin care, assisting with nail treatments, customer service, health and safety and anatomy and physiology.You will learn the skills you need for the workplace including communication, numeracy, organisation and relationship-building.You will also complete maths & English qualifications if you haven?t got them already, as they are essential in this industry.

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements to join this course. We'll use your interview to make sure it's the right course for you. A successful interview; demonstrating interest , enthusiasm and commitment.

What you will learn

  • You'll practise cosmetic make-up application and themed face painting.
  • You'll carry out nail treatments including gel polish and pedicures.
  • You'll learn the principles of practice for beauty therapists.
  • You'll develop client care and consultation skills.
  • You'll prepare and maintain a professional work area.
  • You'll study communication and commercial skills used in salons.
  • You'll gain an introduction to anatomy and physiology relevant to beauty therapy.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical salon sessions and classroom lessons. The course includes work experience placements with industry employers and visits to professional events and businesses. You'll also work with paying clients in a salon setting. Assessment is through a combination of practical observation and written or knowledge-based tasks, as set by City and Guilds.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Beauty therapist: carry out treatments in salons, spas, and hotels.
  • Nail technician: specialise in nail care and nail art services.
  • Make-up artist: work in retail, theatre, or events.
  • Salon receptionist: front-of-house role in a hair or beauty salon.
  • Beauty counter assistant: advise customers in retail settings.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma in Beauty Therapy: the next step toward working independently as a beauty therapist, covering a wider range of treatments.
  • Level 2 Diploma in Hairdressing: if you want to move into hairdressing, this qualification covers cutting, colouring, and styling.
  • Level 3 Diploma in Beauty Therapy: a higher-level qualification that opens doors to senior therapist and management roles in the industry.

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