Free Level 2 Hairdressing Course in Bournemouth

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start2 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyVTCT awarding body

About this course

Free Level 2 Hairdressing Course in Bournemouth. Classes run full-time at Bournemouth & Poole College Bournemouth Campus. This one-year programme covers the core technical skills the hair industry requires at Level 2, including cutting, colouring, dressing hair, and client consultation. You'll also study GCSE English and/or Maths alongside a minimum of 45 to 60 days of work experience in a salon environment. The programme includes one evening a week working in one of the college's training salons.

Who this course is for

Level 2 is the minimum required by the industry to work as a junior stylist. On the programme you will also study GCSE English and/or Maths and also participate in work experience.

Entry requirements

You will require a minimum of 4 GCSEs including English and Maths Grades 9-4 (formerly A*-D) preferably also including a Combined Science qualification. Alternatively successful completion of a relevant Level 1 vocational qualification and Level 1 Functional Skill in English and Maths.

We will accept students on the course with a Level 3 GCSE in English or Maths, but they will need to attain a Grade 4 or higher in the duration of the course.

In addition to the qualifications,

What you will learn

  • You'll learn how to cut women's hair using professional techniques.
  • You'll learn how to colour and lighten hair safely and accurately.
  • You'll learn how to shampoo and condition the hair and scalp.
  • You'll learn how to dress and style hair, including creative themed looks.
  • You'll learn how to carry out client consultations.
  • You'll learn how to follow health and safety practice in a salon.
  • You'll learn how to promote products and services to clients.
  • You'll develop underpinning knowledge of the hair industry.

How you will learn

You'll be assessed on your practical skills working on paying clients in a salon setting. Assessment also covers underpinning knowledge through online exams and question papers. You'll complete a practical trade test as part of the programme. Work experience in an industry environment forms a compulsory part of your assessment, with a minimum of 45 to 60 days required.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Bournemouth & Poole College Bournemouth Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Junior stylist: entry-level salon role after completing this hairdressing qualification.
  • Salon assistant: support senior stylists while building your skills.
  • Hairdresser: how to become a hairdresser starts with Level 2 training.
  • Colourist assistant: specialist colour work in a salon environment.
  • Blow-dry technician: focused styling role in busy salons.

What you could study next

Level 2 is the minimum standard the industry recognises for junior stylist work. To become a fully qualified stylist, you'll need to progress to a Level 3 Hairdressing qualification. A Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Hairdressing is the standard route for those aiming to work independently or take on more senior salon roles.

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