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Hair and Barbering

STUDYING HAIR AND BARBERING AT WESTON COLLEGE 

Are you artistic and looking for a creative outlet? Love to create unique hairstyles? With the right support and training, you could turn your personal passion into a successful career  - you can open the door to a successful career in this fun and fulfilling sector! Skilled and qualified hairdressers and barbers have clear routes into the industry and the ability to upskill and retrain.

On average hairdressers and barbers start on a salary of around £14,000 per year, and with experience and higher qualifications this can go up to £30,000.

Former students have gone on to open their own hair salons and barbers, work on cruise liners, work in the fashion, film and television industry as stylists.

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

Job roles in the West of England currently include:

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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:

 

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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  • T-Levels
Level 1

Hair VRQ Pre-technical Diploma

1 Year
Sep 2025
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
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This programme is an ideal starting point to embark on a rewarding and creative career in the world of hairdressing. The course serves as a valuable introduction to the industry, and you will cover a wide range of topics related to hair care, styling techniques, colouring, cutting, and salon management. With a strong focus on practical trainin...

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Level 2

Hairdressing, Technical Diploma

1 Year
Sep 2025
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
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On this course, you will learn about cutting ladies hair, colour and lightening, styling and dressing hair, blow-drying and finishing as well as developing your knowledge and understanding of hair and scalp conditions, and health and safety. You will also learn about client care and consultation, shampooing and conditioning, and promoting and ...

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Level 3

Hairdressing, Technical Diploma

1 Year
Sep 2025
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
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This qualification builds on existing skills, knowledge and understanding of hairdressing and enables the student to develop an enhanced repertoire of technical skills to prepare them for employment as a senior hairdresser or stylist. The aim of the course is to develop advanced hairdressing skills and knowledge including colour correction and...

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Level 3

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

2 Years
Sep 2025
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
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If you’re looking to develop your passion and skills in media hair and makeup, this qualification will teach you all you need to help you achieve a career in the industry. This course will encourage you to be creative and inventive and try techniques you’ve never had the chance to before, while discovering what is most effective in differe...

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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."   

Courses after College

Your journey to University Centre Weston starts here...

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.
 
 

 

Competition squad selections for 2021 are open!

Find out more

Meet your lecturers

Avatar Stuart Donovan Lecturer
“I started my career as a Barber in 1999 and, since then, I’ve had a passion for cutting hair,” Read More
Avatar Jenna Ratcliffe FE Curriculum Co-ordinator
“I feel honoured to be part of young people’s journey from education to industry.” Read More

Partnership with

WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY

Heather at COS Awards
Heather
Throughout her time at the College, Heather encountered numerous challenges but faced each obstacle with a positive mindset and an unwavering resolve to succeed. Heather's journey took a significant turn during her Level 2 work experience at a local salon, where her exceptional client care and professionalism gained praise from employers.
Studied:

Hairdressing, Level 3

Olivia with award
Olivia
Olivia was named as the Hair and Beauty Student of the Year at Celebration of Success 2023, for going above and beyond in her studies.
Studied:

Hairdressing, Level 3

LATEST NEWS

Student getting their makeup done

<p>In the <a href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses/hair-make-up-and-prosthetics-for-producti…, Makeup and Prosthetics for Production (HMPP) three-year degree programme</a>&nbsp;at <a href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/">UCW</a&gt;, there is a module which requires the learners to work to an industry brief. This year, <a href="https://www.puxton.co.uk/">Puxton Park</a>&nbsp;delivered the brief for the learners, for an event they held, called “Phobia”; a Halloween event that took place from 22nd – 29th October, consisting of five haunted attractions including a Haunted Tractor Ride, Doll House and the ‘Dark Wood’. The learners were required to design and apply makeup to a very high quality for this event, for up to 40 actors a night!</p><p>In total, 30 students across both HE &amp; FE took part; the third year HMPP learners were in charge of running the event, and the first and second year HMPP learners also took part as assistants. The <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut… 2 Hair and media makeup</a> learners were also involved as further assistance on certain makeup zones. Every learner was there every night, from 4:30 – 10:30pm, to ensure every actor was ready for their performance. It was important that they planned and practiced every aspect before the event started, as they had to make sure they could carry out the same quality in a fast-paced environment, under time pressure!</p><p>As well as designing and applying the makeup on the nights, the 3rd year learners were also tasked with ordering the products and costumes, and keeping within a budget, as well as holding workshops for the Level 2 students to demonstrate the desired looks, and build their confidence in their abilities.</p><p>The feedback from everyone involved has been overwhelmingly positive – the learners absolutely loved the opportunity to work in a professional event, working with other students across multiple courses, and being given a true insight into the industry. Puxton Park have also commented on the creative talent of the learners, and praised them for their professionalism. The general public, who attended the event, have said it was “a fantastic, immersive experience, but very scary!”</p><p>Tara O’Hare, an HMPP lecturer, has commented “I would like to personally thank my third year HMPP students, with special thanks in particular to Holly and Beth, who acted as project managers on the event, liaised with the other groups who were helping out, and worked professionally and fully committed themselves to the project throughout.</p><p>Both the HE and FE makeup students worked with enthusiasm and confidence throughout They will be an absolute asset in the makeup industry, and without them, this project would not have been as successful. We can’t wait to be back next year!”</p><p>If you’re interested in a qualification in Hair and Makeup, you can find out more information, below!</p><ul><li><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… Education</a></li><li><a href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses/hair-make-up-and-prosthetics-for-producti… Education</a></li></ul>

Staff applying glitter to students face

<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{6cfc4a22-34c7-4f07-bf99-603d0ecc0ad7}{39}" paraid="206371707" xml:lang="EN-GB">Last month saw the Education and Early Years, Hair and Beauty, and the Hospitality and Catering students celebrating their achievements this year.</p><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{6cfc4a22-34c7-4f07-bf99-603d0ecc0ad7}{39}" paraid="206371707" xml:lang="EN-GB">The End of Year Celebrations showcased the learners incredible work and skills. The theme of this year's event was ‘WESTONBURY’ - Weston College’s very own festival!&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{881830c6-3017-403d-8e8d-5477020c71d7}{124}" paraid="629137896" xml:lang="EN-GB">To kick off the evening, guests were greeted with mocktails and welcomed with amazing stalls displaying learners work, hair braiding, festival food stalls and glitter face painting! &nbsp;</p><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{881830c6-3017-403d-8e8d-5477020c71d7}{132}" paraid="830618206" xml:lang="EN-GB">The food stalls were run by Hospitality and Catering students and served up incredible food to the guests which was a wonderful opportunity for learners to gain some real-life experience.&nbsp;</p><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{e2fdc2ac-68d1-4c66-96ce-f96a5ed2239e}{135}" paraid="1731836185" xml:lang="EN-GB">Our Education and Early Years learners presented a video of what they get up to in classes and students Bethany, Hannah and Rachel got up on stage to discuss what they enjoy about their courses! &nbsp;</p><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{33e6f624-53e5-4558-ba1b-444c3d0cd9d6}{111}" paraid="1971324658" xml:lang="EN-GB">The Hair and Beauty learners displayed their skills with a catwalk, demonstrating the technical skills they have gained over the last year. To open the catwalk, a group of learners gaining their Level 2 Hairdressing qualification prepared a dance – these students have played a significant role in the World Skills competence to excellence which enables them to be challenged to work outside their comfort zones, resilience in challenging situations, problem solve to prepare them for the world of work. &nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{6cfc4a22-34c7-4f07-bf99-603d0ecc0ad7}{88}" paraid="996526653" xml:lang="EN-GB">Sandra Bull, Dean of the Service Sector says: "<em>Following the challenges of the last academic year it was lovely to be able to celebrate once again in person the progression and journey of our learners in Service Sectors."&nbsp;</em>&nbsp;</p><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{6cfc4a22-34c7-4f07-bf99-603d0ecc0ad7}{96}" paraid="68993663" xml:lang="EN-GB"><strong>Congratulations to all our award winners and a huge thank you to our staff!&nbsp;</strong></p><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{6cfc4a22-34c7-4f07-bf99-603d0ecc0ad7}{96}" paraid="68993663" xml:lang="EN-GB">&nbsp;</p><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{6cfc4a22-34c7-4f07-bf99-603d0ecc0ad7}{96}" paraid="68993663" xml:lang="EN-GB">&nbsp;</p><ul role="list"><li aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-level="1" data-aria-posinset="1" data-font="Symbol" data-leveltext="" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}" data-listid="2" role="listitem"><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{6cfc4a22-34c7-4f07-bf99-603d0ecc0ad7}{103}" paraid="559152118" xml:lang="EN-GB"><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-…; rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Find out more about our Hair and Beauty courses here.</a>&nbsp;</p></li><li aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-level="1" data-aria-posinset="2" data-font="Symbol" data-leveltext="" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}" data-listid="2" role="listitem"><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{6cfc4a22-34c7-4f07-bf99-603d0ecc0ad7}{121}" paraid="2080517146" xml:lang="EN-GB"><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi…; rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Find out more about our Hospitality and Catering courses here.</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p></li><li aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-level="1" data-aria-posinset="3" data-font="Symbol" data-leveltext="" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559683&quot;:0,&quot;335559684&quot;:-2,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}" data-listid="2" role="listitem"><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{6cfc4a22-34c7-4f07-bf99-603d0ecc0ad7}{133}" paraid="1932880819" xml:lang="EN-GB"><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/educa…; rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Find out more about our Education and Early Years courses here.</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p></li></ul>

Woman cutting hair

<p>My name is Emma and I’ve been in the hairdressing industry for nearly 30 years. I started hairdressing as soon as I left school, working in a large salon where I completed a two-year apprenticeship with a one-day college day. I absolutely love every aspect of hairdressing, especially the way it allows creativity and for you to make your own style.</p><p>I worked in a few salons on a rent-a-chair basis, but always felt there was something missing for me. I had so many ideas and I truly wanted to open my own salon in which everything was unique. I worked very hard and I can now say it all was worth it as I have had my own salon for two years, which has been the best and most rewarding thing I've ever done, even with the Covid lockdown in between.</p><p>Something that was really important to me was offering students the opportunity to gain work experience, as I knew first-hand how important it was. Learning in a college is amazing, but being able to go into a salon to see how it's run and their own approach to each detail is essential to a learner looking to go into the field.</p><p>When I opened Unique, I wanted my salon to be different and stand out from the crowd, while also benefitting the environment. To achieve this, I decided I wanted all my colours and products to be vegan friendly. I also offer a wide range of eco-friendly products at an affordable price, so it's easier for my clients to be friendly to the environment.</p><p>With any learner coming into my salon, I would expect them to have fantastic timekeeping and be ready to learn, to accept that there are many jobs to be done, which are all of equal importance to the smooth-running of the salon.</p><p>This year, we are so excited that we are getting involved with the brand-new <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/career-excellence-hubs">Careers Excellence Hub</a> as an endorser. This will allow us to impact the future of our industry by influencing what is taught in the curriculum, delivering master classes and offering more opportunities to learners to gain valuable experience.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><em>Emma - Unique Hair</em></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… you're interested in studying hairdressing and barbering, click this link!</a></p>

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