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Beauty and Complementary Therapies

STUDYING BEAUTY THERAPY AT WESTON COLLEGE 

Are you artistic and looking for a creative outlet? Love to experiment with your look, obsessed with make-up tutorials? With the right support and training, you could turn your personal passion into a successful career.

A qualification in beauty can lead to several successful careers in the industry and enable you to perform professional treatments. On average a beauty therapist starts on a salary of £15,000 and with experience and higher qualifications this can go up to £20,000.

All courses are taught by industry experts in the Hair and Beauty Centre at the Knightstone Campus, where you will get real client experience.

There are two routes to choose from:

  • Full-time - at the Hair and Beauty Centre
  • Apprenticeship – work-based training in the surrounding area with regular sessions at the Hair and Beauty Centre

Use this page to discover your perfect course, and apply direct right here.

Careers in Beauty Therapy

Here are just a few examples of job titles that have shown to be the most popular listings in the South West region within the last year.

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hair and beauty CEH logo

 

We've bundled the best education in the area with career boosted benefits - and are leveraging our contacts as one of the largest Colleges in the country to give you the best possible chance of success.

Our beauty qualifications have been developed in conjunction with local and national employers, giving you qualifications that employers look for - opening the door to a successful career in this fun and fulfilling sector.

Taught by tutors with impressive industry careers, you will also benefit from our partnerships with: Dennis Williams Hair and Beauty Supplies, Eve Taylor, CKD (College Kits Direct), Florenceroby (The luxury uniform company for beauty, hair and spa) and VTCT.

Our programmes are endorsed by:

 

weston beauty clinic logo
Unique unisex hairdressers
Cadbury house logo
Asthetics by Erin logo
Cabello logo
Beauty Rooms Medi Spa logo
Bella Beauty logo
Nek's logo

 

FIND OUT MORE

 

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  • In College
  • Apprenticeships
  • T-Levels
Level 2

Beauty Therapy, Technical Diploma

1 Year
Sep 2026
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
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Turn your passion for beauty into a professional career with the Beauty Therapy Technical Diploma. You will gain hands-on experience in facials, body treatments, and nail services, while developing essential knowledge of health, safety, and client care.  Course Overview  Based at Knightstone Campus, our Level 2 Beauty Therapy Technical Diplo...

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Level 3

Beauty Therapies, Diploma

1 Year
Sep 2026
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
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Develop your professional beauty skills to a higher level with the Beauty Therapies Diploma. You will refine your technical abilities, learn advanced treatments, and gain the confidence to work in high-end salons, spas, and wellness environments. This course is perfect for anyone who wants to work towards a career in the aesthetics industry. ...

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Level 3

Theatrical, Special Effects, Prosthetics and Make-up, Extended Diploma

2 Years
Sep 2026
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
Click Here

Bring your creativity to life with the Theatrical, Special Effects, Prosthetics & Make-up Extended Diploma. This course is perfect for students who want to explore the world of professional make-up artistry for theatre, film, television, and events. Course Overview Unleash your creativity with this exciting two-year course in media make-u...

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Higher level courses

Level 4

Private: UAL Level 4 Makeup, Hair and Special Effects for Stage and Screen

Level 6

Makeup, Wigs and Special Effects, BA (Hons)

ucw logo
You can progress onto degrees and higher apprenticeships with UCW...
CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE
Weston Musem

Hannah Hoskin-Love

The Beauty Spot

“Through Weston College’s Career Excellence Hub, we are able to get involved and support students....

Whether that be through delivering masterclass sessions, playing a part in the development of curriculum or offering work experience."   

THE FACILITIES

All hair and beauty programmes are based in the Hair and Beauty Centre, at the Knightstone Campus.

  • The Hair and Beauty Centre includes five purpose-built, industry standard salons including, hairdressers, barbers, beauty salon, a nail salon and a specialist media make-up facility
  • The Hair and Beauty Centre is open to the public giving you regular, real client experience ensuring you are ready for the industry
  • All the Hair and Beauty Centre lecturers have many years experience working in the sector, so you will be learning from experts with current and relevant knowledge
  • Plus, you will have the opportunity to experiment with different styles and techniques, displaying them at our end-of-year hair and beauty show.
salon chairs
salon chairs head sink close up
salon room wide shot
2 haircut stations
close up of hair dryer
2 haircut stations close up
hair and beauty reception desk
towels and cosmetics on shelves

WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY

beauty therapy student giving client facial
Maddison
The facilities are fantastic, and the work experience in salons taught me valuable client interaction skills. A trip to the Beauty Rooms Medi-Spa in Nailsea was particularly enlightening, showing us how to build our own businesses and access further training.
Studied:

Beauty Therapy Level 2

kayla performing massage on lady
Kayla
I love learning new beauty treatments to help people feel confident and comfortable with themselves and I also enjoy learning about the anatomy and physiology side of beauty therapy – this course covers all of that and more! 
Studied:

Beauty Technical Programme

LATEST NEWS

Three hair and Makeup models posing together in photoshoot

<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Last month, our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…; and <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… </a><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… and Media Makeup</a> students came together for an exciting collaborative project, giving them valuable hands-on experience of working on a professional photoshoot inspired by the unique style of Marie Antoinette.</p><p>Working from a creative hair and makeup brief, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… and Media Makeup</a> students showcased their skills by designing elaborate hairstyles, intricate headdresses, and striking makeup looks that blended historical influences with contemporary beauty trends. To complete the modern interpretation of Marie Antoinette’s extravagant aesthetic, students also styled their models in modernised corsets and lace garments. The project provided an excellent opportunity for students to experiment with new techniques, explore their creativity, and develop their own unique interpretations of the brief.</p><p>Students approached the project from a variety of perspectives. Some chose to portray Marie Antoinette through a regal and aristocratic lens, creating elegant and refined looks, while others focused on her dramatic downfall, incorporating prosthetics and special effects makeup to reference her execution. This creative freedom allowed students to push their boundaries, develop their technical skills, and express their individuality.</p><p>The project also provided <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…; students with the opportunity to work directly with clients and capture the stunning creations produced by the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… and Media Makeup</a> students. Through careful consideration of lighting, composition, and posing, they brought the concepts to life, creating high-quality images that reflected the vision of the brief while showcasing the artistry of their peers.</p><p>Collaborative opportunities such as this are invaluable in helping students work alongside peers from different disciplines and gain an appreciation for the diverse talents across the college. These experiences also build confidence, adaptability, and communication skills by exposing students to a range of creative briefs and working styles, which are essential qualities for success in client-facing and fast-paced industries. In addition, projects like this strengthen students’ portfolios, broaden their creative experience, and open doors to future career opportunities.</p><p>Paul French, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…; Lecturer at Weston College, said: “Collaborations with other CEH areas are a great opportunity for our students to step out of their comfort zones and work with new people on a variety of projects. It builds their adaptability whilst giving them the chance to develop their communication skills and capture photographs that both they and the client are proud of. Not only that, but it is also a fantastic way to celebrate the talent of students from other courses and see the amazing work they produce.”</p><p>Jenna Ratcliffe, Head of Service Sectors at Weston College, added: “Workshops like this are an excellent opportunity for students to express their creativity and develop designs that reflect both the brief and their individuality. They also help prepare students for a wide range of careers within the sector by encouraging them to step outside their comfort zones and create more extravagant and intricate designs, enhancing both their portfolios and skillsets.</p><p>“A huge thank you to the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…; students for capturing such high-quality images of the final looks. This kind of collaboration is invaluable to both groups, and it is wonderful to see all of the students’ hard work documented so professionally.”</p><p>Well done to all the students involved. The exceptional standard of work produced throughout this project is a fantastic reflection of the talent, creativity, and bright future of these industries.</p><p>This collaboration forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…; and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-…; and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut…; Careers Excellence Hub. Weston College's Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners' careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys.&nbsp;</p><p>Progress to the next level in <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses/film-and-media-arts-production-ba-hons/">…; or <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses/makeup-wigs-and-special-effects-ba-hons/?…, Wigs and Special Effects</a>! At <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/">University Centre Weston (UCW)</a> our students give us impressive feedback, with our latest National Student Survey results putting us above average in all nine areas! Find out more about our exceptional teaching, wellbeing services and learning resources by visiting our website. <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/">Click here!</a></p><p><strong>If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College </strong><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&amp;utm_medium=main-…;. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Students smiling with their final designs

<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Earlier this month, our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut… Therapy</a>, and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… Makeup and Prosthetics</a> students, alongside learners from the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses/makeup-wigs-and-special-effects-ba-hons/"… BA(Hons) Hair, Makeup and Prosthetics for Production</a> degree, competed in the Association of Hairdressers and Therapists (AHT) National Final in Blackpool after successfully progressing from the South West Regional competition.</p><p>The national event gave students the opportunity to showcase their talents against learners from across the country, applying their skills across a wide range of treatments, styles, and creative disciplines.</p><p>Students competed in a variety of categories, from classic blow-dries and intricate hairstyling themes to body painting, makeovers, and nail art. Each category challenged competitors to combine creativity, technical precision, and professionalism to produce high-quality work under pressure.</p><p>Following outstanding performances in the regional heats, several students advanced to the national final and achieved impressive results:</p><ul><li>Elora, a <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… 3 Theatrical, Special Effects, Prosthetics and Make-up Extended Diploma</a> learner, achieved 1st place in TV and Film Character Makeup.</li><li>Yana, a <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses/makeup-wigs-and-special-effects-ba-hons/"… BA(Hons) Hair, Makeup and Prosthetics for Production</a> student, achieved 1st place for her Banksy-inspired half body painting, as well as 3rd place in both Butterfly Body Paint and Magazine Front Cover Makeup.</li><li>Aimee, a <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut… 2 Beauty Therapy</a> learner, secured 2nd place in Nails.</li><li>Janis, a <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… 3 Hairdressing</a> Adult learner, achieved 2nd place for her 1960s-inspired evening hairstyle.</li></ul><p>These fantastic results reflect not only the students’ talent and dedication, but also the hard work and preparation that went into the competition. Taking part in events like this helps students build confidence, develop resilience and adaptability, and gain valuable networking opportunities – all essential skills for working successfully with clients in the industry.</p><p>Competitions like this allow our learners to identify their strengths while receiving constructive feedback and guidance from industry professionals and peers. Experiences like these encourage students to explore new techniques, styles, and creative approaches that will help them stand out in their future careers.</p><p>Jenna Ratcliffe, Head of Service Sectors at Weston College, said:</p><p>“Our students have excelled throughout this competition, applying their classroom knowledge to exciting new categories while stepping outside their comfort zones and thinking creatively. Opportunities like this give our students the confidence to experiment, develop their own style, and prepare for the challenges and unique requests they may face when working with clients in their future careers.</p><p>“I’d also like to say a huge thank you to all of my colleagues in the Hair and Beauty team. These results wouldn’t have been possible without your continued support and encouragement.”</p><p>Congratulations to all our learners who competed in the finals, these achievements are a reflection of your talent, creativity, and hard work!</p><p>This competition forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-…; and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut… Therapy</a> Careers Excellence Hubs. Weston College's Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners' careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys.&nbsp;</p><p>Progress to the next level in <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses/makeup-wigs-and-special-effects-ba-hons/"… and Makeup</a>! At <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/">University Centre Weston (UCW)</a> our students give us impressive feedback, with our latest National Student Survey results putting us above average in all nine areas! Find out more about our exceptional teaching, wellbeing services and learning resources by visiting our website. <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/">Click here!</a></p><p><strong>If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College </strong><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&amp;utm_medium=main-…;. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Student blow-drying a member of the public's hair

<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Last month, our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut…;, and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… Makeup</a> students hosted a successful pamper night for members of the public, inviting guests to enjoy an evening of relaxation, treatments, and dining.</p><p>Attendees were able to choose from a range of treatments delivered by our talented students, including wash, blow dry and style appointments, manicures, massages, and makeovers. The event created a welcoming and sociable atmosphere where guests could unwind, chat with students, and enjoy professional treatments at an affordable price.</p><p>Following their pamper sessions, guests moved to the Grove Kitchen and Restaurant, where our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi… and Catering</a> students prepared and served a delicious two-course meal consisting of hunter’s chicken followed by homemade trifle. This provided an excellent opportunity for students to showcase their culinary and presentation skills, transforming a simple traditional meal into a professionally prepared and presented dining experience made entirely from scratch.</p><drupal-entity alt="&quot;Students pouring custard into the trifle&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="500b5c0f-b30e-49a2-b583-5cd139427745" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{&quot;image_style&quot;:&quot;max_500x500&quot;,&quot;image_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;image_loading&quot;:{&quot;attribute&quot;:&quot;lazy&quot;}}">&nbsp;</drupal-entity><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The evening was highly beneficial for our students across all curriculum areas involved, offering valuable experience interacting with members of the public and working with real-world clients in a professional environment. Students developed their communication and customer service skills by learning how to respond to different personalities, preferences, and client needs, while also gaining experience working under pressure within a time-sensitive but fully supported setting. The event also helped students build confidence, professionalism, and practical experience, while giving them opportunities to receive feedback on their work and add to their professional portfolios.</p><p>The pamper night also benefited members of the public by providing affordable treatments and an enjoyable social experience, while allowing the local community to directly support student learning and the development of industry skills. Events such as this play an important role in helping students prepare for future employment while giving guests the opportunity to experience the high standards and talents of our learners.</p><p>A big thank you to everyone in attendance for making events like this possible and nurturing the professional development of our students.</p><p>This event forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-…; and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut… Therapy</a> Careers Excellence Hub. Weston College's Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners' careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys.&nbsp;</p><p>Progress to the next level in <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses-by-subject/performance-and-production-art… and Media Makeup</a>! At <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/">University Centre Weston (UCW)</a> our students give us impressive feedback, with our latest National Student Survey results putting us above average in all nine areas! Find out more about our exceptional teaching, wellbeing services and learning resources by visiting our website. <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/">Click here!</a></p><p><strong>If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College </strong><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&amp;utm_medium=main-…;. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

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