Start: September 2026
Duration: 1 Year
Code: ED2HSPF1LC

Course Overview

The Level 2 Hairdressing Diploma is the ideal next step if you're ready to turn your creativity into a career. Based at Weston College's Knightstone Campus, you'll train in industry-standard commercial salons equipped with professional styling stations, backwash areas, and colouring facilities, giving you the experience of working in a real salon environment from the very start.

Guided by experienced tutors who have built successful careers within the hairdressing industry, you'll develop the practical techniques and professional behaviours expected by employers. Alongside mastering cutting, colouring, styling, and consultation skills, you'll gain valuable work experience in local salons, allowing you to apply your learning with real clients and build confidence in a professional setting.

As a member of Weston College's Hair & Beauty Career Excellence Hub, you'll benefit from employer networking opportunities, industry demonstrations, competitions, guest speakers, and enrichment activities designed to help you develop your skills and prepare for a successful career in the hair and beauty industry.

What will I study?

Throughout the course, you'll develop the technical knowledge and practical skills required to work confidently in a professional salon.

Topics include:

• Hair cutting techniques • Hair colouring and lightening • Hair styling and finishing • Shampooing and conditioning • Client consultation • Health and safety in the salon • Customer care • Salon reception and business awareness • Professional behaviours • Product knowledge

You'll spend a significant amount of time developing your practical skills in our commercial salons while building confidence working with clients and industry-standard equipment.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment combines practical salon work with theory to reflect the skills required in industry.

Assessment includes:

• Practical assessments in the salon • Written assignments • Presentations • Portfolio of evidence • Two theory examinations

Additional Information

Throughout your course, you will benefit from:

• Work experience in professional salons • Membership of Weston College's Hair & Beauty Career Excellence Hub • Industry-standard salon facilities • Guest demonstrations and masterclasses • Competitions and industry shows • Access to professional salon equipment and products • Career planning and progression support

Kit and uniform information will be provided before enrolment. A bursary application or £100 deposit is required before starting the programme.

As part of your practical training, learners will experience a range of salon services, including hair washing, cutting, and colouring. During the early stages of the course, practical techniques will be developed using training heads before progressing to clients.

Although hair extensions are not included as a formal qualification unit, enrichment sessions are available to introduce you to extension techniques.

Entry Requirements

• GCSE English and maths at Grade 3 or above

You will also need:

• A genuine interest in hairdressing • Creativity, enthusiasm, and a willingness to develop your practical skills

What can I do after this course?

Successful completion of this course provides excellent progression opportunities within the hair and beauty industry.

You could progress to:

• Hairdressing Advanced Diploma • Hair Professional Apprenticeship • Specialist hair colouring or styling courses • Further professional training at Weston College

Career opportunities include:

• Junior Stylist • Salon Assistant • Trainee Colour Technician • Hairdresser • Freelance Stylist (following further experience) • Salon Supervisor (with additional qualifications and experience)

This course provides the skills, experience, and confidence to begin building a successful career in one of the UK's most creative industries.

What do I do now?

Ready to apply? – Please use the ‘apply now’ button on this page. From here you'll be taken through to our application portal.

Want to learn more? – Visit and see the facilities and chat to staff by signing up for our next open event.

Have a quick question? – Use our Live Chat facility on the bottom right of this page.

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You will need to complete a full enrolment form prior to starting your course.

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