Free Level 3 Hairdressing Course in Exeter – Exeter College – Full-time

CostFREE
Duration488 hours
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyVTCT awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Hairdressing Course in Exeter. Classes run at Exeter College. This full-time daytime course covers advanced cutting, colouring, and styling techniques to a professional standard. You'll complete around 488 hours of training, building the technical skills employers and salons look for in a qualified hairdresser. The level 3 hairdressing qualification is awarded by VTCT, a specialist awarding body recognised across the hair and beauty industry. You'll have an initial assessment to confirm the course is the right level for you.

Who this course is for

For details about VTCT DIPLOMA IN WOMENS HAIRDRESSING - LEVEL 3, please see the College Website (Courses can be found under the 16-18 / Adults / University tabs or use the search box at the top of the screen or use the screen). Alternatively please call to speak to a college advisor.

Entry requirements

See website for futher details

What you will learn

  • You'll cut and style women's hair using a range of professional techniques.
  • You'll colour and lighten hair, including tinting, highlights, and bleaching.
  • You'll carry out perming and relaxing treatments.
  • You'll style and dress hair for different occasions and client needs.
  • You'll consult with clients and adapt your approach to their hair type and lifestyle.
  • You'll apply health, safety, and hygiene standards in a salon environment.
  • You'll develop the business and client-care skills needed to work professionally.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical, hands-on sessions in a salon training environment alongside classroom study. Assessment combines observed practical work, where an assessor watches you carry out treatments on clients, with written or online knowledge tests. You'll build a portfolio of evidence over the course. Assessment is set by VTCT and covers both technical skills and underpinning knowledge.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Hairdresser: how to become a hairdresser in a salon or barbershop
  • Salon stylist: cutting, colouring, and styling for paying clients
  • Colour technician: specialist role focusing on colouring and lightening
  • Mobile hairdresser: self-employed work visiting clients at home
  • Salon manager: senior role overseeing a team and daily operations
  • Session stylist: hair styling for photoshoots, TV, or fashion events

What you could study next

  • NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Hairdressing: an NVQ route that supports a Master Craftsperson qualification and can strengthen your standing with employers.
  • Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training: if you want to teach hairdressing in a college or training centre.
  • VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Barbering: broaden your skills to include men's cutting and barbering techniques.
  • Self-employment and business qualifications: short courses in salon management or small business finance if you plan to go freelance.