Level 3 Hairdressing Course in Southend-on-Sea

Cost£1,645.00
Duration12 months
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

About this course

Level 3 Hairdressing Course in Southend-on-Sea. Classes run at South Essex College Southend Campus, part-time during the day. The course runs over 12 months and is structured to fit around work and family commitments. You'll need a Level 2 hairdressing qualification or equivalent, plus GCSEs at grade D or above in maths and English. The hairdressing classes cover cutting, colouring, bridal hair, styling techniques, and salon consultation skills. You'll train in professional salon facilities using industry products. This level 3 hairdressing qualification leads to work as a stylist across salons, spas, and other settings.

Who this course is for

This course will suit students with a basic understanding of hairdressing who wish to advance their skills for employment or further study.

Entry requirements

  • two GCSEs at grade D or above in maths and English, or equivalent * Hairdressing Level 2 Certificate (or equivalent) * successful attendance at interview event and satisfactory references * you will be required to purchase salon wear, a basic equipment kit, textbooks and pay a fee towards the cost of consumables used on the course

What you will learn

  • You'll develop cutting techniques to create a variety of women's hairstyles.
  • You'll learn colouring methods to achieve different looks and finishes.
  • You'll practise styling and dressing hair using a range of techniques.
  • You'll build skills in bridal and occasion hair.
  • You'll carry out hairdressing consultations and support colleagues in the salon.
  • You'll monitor and maintain health and safety practice in a salon environment.

How you will learn

You'll be assessed through practical assignments carried out in the salon, written assignments, online multiple-choice exams, oral questions, and a portfolio of evidence. Classes are classroom and salon based, giving you hands-on practice alongside the written elements. Your portfolio builds throughout the year as you demonstrate your skills across the core and optional units.

What you will need to bring

You'll need to purchase salon wear, a basic equipment kit, and textbooks before you start. There is also a fee toward the cost of consumables used during the course. South Essex College Southend Campus will confirm the full list of required items when you enrol.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Hairdresser: how to become a hairdresser in a salon setting.
  • Colourist: specialist colour work in salons or freelance.
  • Bridal hair stylist: wedding and occasion hair for clients.
  • Salon technician: technical support and specialist treatments.
  • Cruise ship hairdresser: onboard styling for cruise lines.
  • Hotel or health spa stylist: hairdressing within hospitality settings.
  • Salon trainer or assessor: training junior stylists in the workplace.

What you could study next

A Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Hairdressing is worth considering if you want to move into senior stylist or management roles, as NVQ evidence of competence is valued by many employers. You could also look at a Level 4 qualification in salon management or education and training if you want to move into running a salon or training others.