Hair & Beauty

What We Do

The Hair & Beauty course at KS4 offers three qualifications, with additional options potentially becoming available in 2025:

1. VTCT Level 2 Award in Hair and Beauty Skills

• Structure:
  • Mandatory Unit: Create an image based on a theme (Unit UC06), where learners research a theme, create a mood board/inspiration board, and demonstrate practical skills in hair, makeup, nails, and outfit styling on a model. They then evaluate their final look.
  • Optional Unit: Selected by the learner, with practical and assignment-based components.
  • Assessment: Coursework assessed by staff and an external moderator. Graded as Pass, Merit, or Distinction. No examination.
  • Equivalent to: A GCSE pass.

2. VTCT Level 2 Certificate in Hair and Beauty Skills

• Structure:
  • Mandatory Unit: Create an image based on a theme (Unit UC06).
  • Optional Units: Four units chosen by learners.
  • Assessment: Written assignments and practical assessments for all units, graded as Pass, Merit, or Distinction. No examination.
  • Equivalent to: A GCSE pass.

3. VTCT Level 2 Extended Certificate in Hair and Beauty Skills

• Structure:
  • Mandatory Unit: Create an image based on a theme (Unit UC06).
  • Optional Units: Five units chosen by learners.
  • Assessment: Coursework includes written assignments and practical tasks, assessed by staff and an external moderator. No examination.
  • Equivalent to: A GCSE pass.

Our lessons are designed to be practical and engaging, with approximately 70% of class time devoted to hands-on activities rather than theory.

Why We Do It

Hairdressing and beauty therapy remain highly popular vocational pathways that inspire and engage many young people. These qualifications aim to use the hair and beauty sector as a vehicle for broader personal and professional development, equipping learners with the knowledge, skills, and understanding to pursue a variety of career opportunities.

Upon completing these courses, learners are well-prepared to:

• Progress to further education, such as a Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Hairdressing, Barbering, or Beauty Therapy.
• Pursue a Level 2 apprenticeship in Beauty Therapy, Hairdressing, or Barbering.

The course also fosters essential qualities such as creativity, confidence, patience, and communication—skills that are valuable in both professional and personal contexts.

How You Can Help as a Student or Parent/Carer

For Students:
To succeed in the Hair & Beauty course, students should:

• Engage actively with both practical and theoretical components of the lessons.
• Embrace opportunities to develop hands-on skills and showcase creativity through assignments and practical tasks.
• Take feedback constructively and use it to improve both technical abilities and assignment quality.

For Parents/Carers:
Parents and carers can support students by:

• Encouraging regular practice of skills at home, such as creating styles or experimenting with beauty techniques. Be prepared to be pampered at home!
• Supporting learners in staying organized with assignments and project deadlines.
• Discussing potential career pathways and helping students explore opportunities for further education or apprenticeships in the industry.