Free Level 2 Hairdressing Course in Chelmsford

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

About this course

Free Level 2 Hairdressing Course in Chelmsford. Classes run at Chelmsford College Princes. You'll need 2 GCSEs at grades 9-3 in English and Maths, or a Level 1 qualification in hair or beauty, to join. Over one year of full-time daytime hairdressing classes, you'll cover cutting, colouring, styling, shampooing, and client consultation. The course includes at least 30 hours of work-related experience. It combines theory with hands-on practical work across all core salon services.

Who this course is for

The VTCT Level 2 Diploma in Women’s Hairdressing is aimed at learners who are looking to start a career in the hairdressing industry. Learners will study theoretical aspects of the subject and apply them to practical tasks. Specific skills you can expect to develop include the creative art of cutting or dressing women’s hair, how to provide effective shampooing and conditioning services, the artistic skill of colouring and lightening hair and how to provide a good consultation service for your clients.

Entry requirements

2 GCSEs at grades 9-3 in English and Maths or a Level 1 qualification in hair or beauty

What you will learn

  • You'll cut and style women's hair using professional hairdressing techniques.
  • You'll colour and lighten hair to industry standards.
  • You'll shampoo, condition, and treat the hair and scalp.
  • You'll blow-dry and dress hair, including using electrical styling equipment.
  • You'll carry out client consultations and advise on suitable services.
  • You'll provide scalp massage treatments.
  • You'll handle reception duties and understand how a salon operates.
  • You'll apply health and safety practices in a salon environment.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of classroom theory and practical sessions. Assessment covers both your understanding of the subject and your ability to perform salon services to a professional standard. Mandatory units include client consultation, cutting, colouring, styling, shampooing, and reception. You'll also complete a minimum of 30 hours of work-related experience as part of the course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Chelmsford College Princes will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Hairdresser: work in a commercial salon after qualifying.
  • Mobile hairdresser: offer services independently, working for yourself.
  • Self-employed stylist: build your own client base and set your own hours.
  • Salon junior or assistant: support senior stylists while building experience.
  • Care home hairdresser: provide hair services to residents in care settings.
  • Cruise ship hairdresser: work on board as part of a ship's salon team.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Diploma in Hairdressing: the natural next step after Level 2, covering advanced cutting, colouring, and salon management skills.
  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Hairdressing: an NVQ route that can support progression toward senior stylist roles.
  • Barbering qualifications: if you want to broaden your skills to include men's cutting and styling services.

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