Free Level 2 Hairdressing Course in Manchester – Harpurhey Campus

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyVTCT awarding body

About this course

Free Level 2 Hairdressing Course in Manchester. Classes run at Harpurhey Campus, full-time during the day. This level 2 hairdressing qualification is built on the national occupational standards for hairdressing. Over one year, you'll develop the practical skills and knowledge needed to work as a hairdresser: cutting, colouring, styling, shampooing, conditioning, and client consultation. It's a focused, full-time route that covers everything from health and safety responsibilities to giving clients a positive experience.

Who this course is for

This Level 2 qualification is based on the national occupational standards for hairdressing and includes all the required elements to work effectively as a hairdresser.

You'll develop the knowledge, understanding and skills to ensure responsibility to reduce risks to health and safety, give customers a positive impression, advise and consult with clients, shampoo, condition and treat the hair and scalp, change hair colour, cut hair using basic techniques, style and finish hair.

You will also have the option to cover the following optional units;- Fulfil salon reception duties Promote additional services or products to customers Develop and maintain effectiveness at work Perm and neutralise hair

What you will learn

  • You'll learn how to cut hair using basic techniques.
  • You'll develop skills in changing hair colour.
  • You'll practise shampooing, conditioning, and treating the hair and scalp.
  • You'll learn how to style and finish hair.
  • You'll advise and consult with clients about their needs.
  • You'll understand how to give clients a positive impression of the salon.
  • You'll apply health and safety practices to reduce risks in the workplace.

How you will learn

You'll learn through hands-on practical sessions in a salon environment at Harpurhey Campus, alongside classroom-based theory. Assessment is through observed practical performance, written or verbal questioning, and a portfolio of evidence demonstrating your skills and knowledge across each unit of the qualification.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Harpurhey Campus 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
  • Colourist: specialising in hair colouring services
  • Salon assistant: supporting senior stylists day to day
  • Freelance hairdresser: working independently with clients
  • Barber: with additional barbering training

What you could study next

  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Hairdressing: the next step for hairdressers looking to take on more complex cutting and colouring techniques, supervise others, or move toward senior stylist roles.
  • Level 3 Award in Education and Training: if you want to teach hairdressing in a college or training setting.
  • Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Barbering: broadens your skills to include barbering services alongside hairdressing.

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