Free Level 2 Hairdressing Course in Manchester – The Manchester College Wythenshawe 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 The Manchester College Wythenshawe Campus. This full-time, daytime hairdressing course runs for one year and covers everything you need to work as a hairdresser. You'll learn to cut, colour, shampoo, condition, style and finish hair, consult with clients, and manage health and safety in the salon. The level 2 hairdressing qualification is built on national occupational standards for the industry. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm this is the right level for you.

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 cut hair using basic techniques across a range of styles.
  • You'll change hair colour, including tinting and highlighting.
  • You'll shampoo, condition and treat the hair and scalp.
  • You'll style and finish hair to a professional standard.
  • You'll advise and consult with clients about their hair needs.
  • You'll give clients a positive experience throughout their visit.
  • You'll apply health and safety practices to reduce risks in the salon.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical sessions in a salon environment alongside classroom-based study. Assessment is based on the national occupational standards for hairdressing. You'll be assessed through observed practical work and knowledge-based tasks that cover both technical skills and client care. Assessment is ongoing throughout the course rather than through a single end exam.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The Manchester College Wythenshawe 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: entry-level role assisting senior stylists
  • Salon Assistant: supporting day-to-day salon operations
  • Colourist: specialising in hair colouring and tinting
  • Barber: with additional barbering training or experience
  • Mobile Hairdresser: working independently with private clients

What you could study next

  • NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Hairdressing: the next step for hairdressers who want to take on more complex cutting and colouring techniques and move toward senior stylist roles.
  • Level 3 Award in Education and Training: if you want to teach hairdressing in a college or training setting.
  • VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Barbering: for those who want to specialise in barbering alongside hairdressing skills.

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