Free Level 1 Hairdressing Course in Hartlepool

CostFREE
Duration385 hours
LevelLevel 1
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyVTCT awarding body

About this course

Free Level 1 Hairdressing Course in Hartlepool. Classes run at Hartlepool College of Further Education, full-time during the day. You'll develop practical hairdressing skills alongside communication and client-facing skills in a salon environment. The course runs for 385 hours and includes a GCSE or Functional Skills qualification in Maths or English as part of your studies. You'll have an initial assessment and interview before you start.

Who this course is for

This course is for learners 16-18 (subject to interview) seeking a career as an employed or self-employed Hairdresser. You will gain confidence when working with clients and develop communication and social skills within a working environment. You must have excellent personal presentation attributes and be able to work well as a team and individually. As part of your qualification you will be required to complete a GCSE or functional skills in Maths or English.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn to shampoo, condition, and treat the scalp and hair.
  • You'll practise cutting hair using a range of techniques.
  • You'll develop colouring and lightening skills.
  • You'll learn to style and finish hair using tools and products.
  • You'll build client consultation skills, including how to assess hair and scalp conditions.
  • You'll develop professional communication skills for working with clients.
  • You'll study health, safety, and hygiene practices in a salon setting.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical sessions in a salon environment alongside classroom-based study. Assessment includes practical observations, where an assessor watches you carry out hairdressing tasks to the required standard. You'll also complete written or online assessments covering underpinning knowledge. Your progress is assessed throughout the course rather than in a single final exam.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Hartlepool College of Further Education will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Hairdresser: how to become a hairdresser in a salon
  • Junior stylist: assistant role while building experience
  • Salon junior: support senior stylists on the salon floor
  • Self-employed hairdresser: mobile or chair-rental work after further training

What you could study next

  • Level 2 Diploma in Hairdressing (VTCT or City and Guilds): the next step toward working as a qualified hairdresser. Covers more advanced cutting, colouring, and styling techniques.
  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Hairdressing: required for senior stylist roles and a route toward salon management or self-employment at a higher level.

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