Free Level 2 Barbering Course in Solihull

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyVTCT awarding body

About this course

Free Level 2 Barbering Course in Solihull. Classes run at Solihull College And University Centre, full-time during the day. You'll spend a year building the technical and practical skills that barbering work demands, training in a professional salon that's open to the public. The course covers client consultation, cutting men's hair, shaping facial hair, styling, and colour. Theory and practical skills are assessed together throughout. You'll need a minimum of 3 GCSEs at Grade 3 or above, including English, plus a successful interview and a satisfactory reference.

Who this course is for

Level 2 Barbering would be suitable for a basic knowledge and understanding of barbering. The natural progression route would be to move onto level 3 Barbering and then into Higher Education. This course provides students with essential, basic, technical, communication and numeracy skills which will give access to a variety of career options. You will learn how to advise and consult with clients, shampoo, condition and treat the hair and scalp, basic barbering techniques, cut facial hair to shape using basic techniques, dry and finish men's hair and change men's hair colour.

Entry requirements

A VTCT Level 2 in Barbering is an industry recognised qualification. The college hairdressing/barbering benefits from having its own, professional salon that is open to the public and staffed by students.

What you will learn

  • You'll advise and consult with clients before services
  • You'll shampoo, condition, and treat the hair and scalp
  • You'll cut men's hair using barbering techniques
  • You'll cut and shape facial hair
  • You'll dry and finish men's hair
  • You'll colour and lighten hair
  • You'll promote products and services to clients
  • You'll follow health and safety practice in a salon environment

How you will learn

Your theory and practical work are assessed continuously throughout the course. You'll build a portfolio of evidence covering assignments, projects, practical work, and online exams. Each unit is delivered individually, so you work at your own pace and are assessed when you're ready. Practical training takes place in a professional salon environment open to the public.

What you will need to bring

You'll need to budget for a uniform (approximately £30), a barbering equipment kit (approximately £190), and a copy of Men's Hairdressing by Maurice Lister (approximately £31.81). There is also an optional trip to Salon International (approximately £12). Solihull College And University Centre will confirm exact requirements before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Barber: how to become a barber with a recognised barbering qualification
  • Hairdresser: cut and style hair in a salon setting
  • Salon assistant: support senior stylists while building experience
  • Freelance barber: work independently or mobile once experienced

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Diploma in Barbering: the natural next step after this course, taking your skills to a more advanced level and opening doors to senior roles.
  • Higher Education in Hairdressing or Barbering: some learners go on to degree-level study in hair, beauty, or creative arts after completing Level 3.
  • Salon management or business qualifications: useful if you want to run your own barbershop.

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