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Level 2 Hairdressing Course in Harlow

CostFree for 16 to 18 year olds
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

Free for 16 to 18 year olds. Contact Harlow College for more info.

Apply now →

About this course

Level 2 Hairdressing Course in Harlow. Classes run full-time at Harlow College, starting September 2026 and lasting one year. You'll cover shampoo and conditioning, styling, plaiting and twisting, dressing hair, and salon reception duties. The course also builds your understanding of health, safety, and hygiene in a salon environment. Entry requires 3 GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including grade 4 in English; a completed Level 1 Hair and Beauty qualification with strong English progress may also be considered.

Who this course is for

This course will give you the skills and knowledge you need to provide basic shampoo and condition, styling men's and women's hair, plaiting and twisting, the art of dressing hair and, salon reception duties. You will gain an insight into working in the sector and knowledge of the health, safety and hygiene requirements. It will support progression onto a Level 2 course.

Hairdressing is a dynamic industry with lots of different career opportunities to choose from. Successful people in the industry can take their pick from many top jobs from; preparing models, working on magazines and photo-shoots, in theatre and film, even tending to the rich and famous! The UK hairdressing industry is widely regarded as the best in the world so the opportunities are vast.

Entry requirements

3 GCSEs at grade 3 or above plus grade 4 in English.

A successful completion of the Level 1 hair and beauty with clear progress on English skills may also be considered.

What you will learn

  • You'll practise shampooing and conditioning hair and scalp to a professional standard.
  • You'll develop styling techniques for women's and men's hair.
  • You'll learn plaiting and twisting methods.
  • You'll study the art of dressing and finishing hair.
  • You'll handle salon reception duties and client consultation.
  • You'll understand health, safety, and hygiene requirements in a salon.
  • You'll learn how to promote products and services to clients.

How you will learn

You'll learn through hands-on practical sessions in a salon environment at Harlow College, alongside classroom-based theory. Assessment includes practical observations, written assignments, and knowledge tests. You'll be assessed on your ability to carry out salon services to the required standard, as well as your understanding of health, safety, and client care.

What you will need to bring

You'll need a textbook, USB memory stick, stationery, a uniform, and a hairdressing kit. Harlow College estimates these materials cost approximately £220. Confirm the full kit list with Harlow College before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Junior hairdresser: assist stylists and build hands-on salon experience.
  • Salon assistant: shampoo, condition, and support day-to-day salon operations.
  • Hairdresser: style, cut, and treat clients' hair independently.
  • Bridal and occasion hair stylist: specialise in styling for weddings and events.
  • Session stylist: work on photo shoots, magazines, theatre, or film sets.
  • Salon receptionist: manage bookings and client services in a salon.

What you could study next

  • Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Hairdressing: the practical, workplace-based qualification that takes your skills into a professional salon setting.
  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Hairdressing: moves you toward senior stylist level, covering advanced cutting, colouring, and salon management.
  • Level 3 Award in Education and Training: if you want to teach hairdressing in the future, this is the qualification to look at.
Apply on harlow-college.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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