Year 11: The 2-year course begins in Year 10 and includes two separate qualifications:

Qualification 1: VTCT Level 1/2 Technical Award in the Study of Hair and Beauty

About this qualification;

This Technical Award has been designed in line with educational developments, including the reform of vocational education, and meets the Department for Education’s characteristics for high-quality and rigorous Key Stage 4 qualifications.

This qualification uses a grading model of Not Yet Achieved, Level 1 Pass, Level 1 Merit, Level 1 Distinction, Level 2 Pass, Level 2 Merit, Level 2 Distinction and Level 2 Distinction* which will improve student motivation and provide challenge, distinguish between levels of learner achievement and ensure sufficient rigour in assessments.

The overall qualification grade is calculated using a rigorous synoptic assessment method. This consists of an external written exam and an internally marked non-exam assessment (synoptic assignment).

Entry requirements

This qualification has been developed for learners aged 14-16.

There is no formal entry requirement to access this qualification and no prior knowledge, skills or understanding are required; however, an interest in hairdressing and beauty therapy and the related industries is desirable.

Who is this qualification for?

This qualification is aimed at learners aged 14-16 who have an interest in developing a broad understanding of the hairdressing and beauty therapy sector and related industries, including retail, leisure, manufacturing and other personal care services.

What will the learner study as part of this qualification?

This qualification is designed to use the context of hairdressing and beauty therapy as a vehicle to support learners to develop broad and comprehensive understanding of the sector and related industries but, more importantly, of core academic knowledge and study skills that will support progression into post-16 and higher education. Specifically, the qualification will prepare learners to progress onto qualifications related to the hair and beauty sector. It is a vocational qualification equivalent to GCSE grades 9-1. 

UCO90 – Business and entrepreneurship in the hair and beauty sector

This unit will enable learners to develop knowledge and understanding of business principles, types of businesses, marketing and entrepreneurship and different business opportunities within the hair and beauty sector.

UCO91 – Anatomy, physiology and cosmetic science

This unit will enable learners to develop knowledge and understanding of cosmetic chemistry, the role of the integumentary system and the development of hair and beauty products.

UCO92 – Design in the hair and beauty sector

This unit will enable learners to develop knowledge and understanding of the purpose, principles and development of design briefs for the hair and beauty sector, including how to present and communicate design brief ideas and concepts to a range of audiences and develop analytical, reflective and evaluative skills.

For clarity, this qualification consists of three mandatory units and the qualification does not contain any optional units or components.

Qualification 2: Level 2 Certificate in Hair and Beauty Skills

What will the learner study as part of this qualification?

• Blow dry and finish hair
• Shampoo and treat hair
• Basic cutting techniques for women’s hair
• Promote yourself and prepare for a job interview
• Create an image based on a theme

Method of assessment: Internal practical assignments - Pass, Merit, Distinction

About this qualification

This hairdressing course is a great way to learn and experience a broad and comprehensive understanding of the hair and beauty sector. Students develop significant knowledge which spans the entire vocational sector and related issues. They also develop academic and study skills that will support progression within hair and beauty and transfer to other subjects.

Our hair salon, at Allerton Grange, has been created as a realistic working environment where students are taught and assessed by former professional hairdresser, Miss Pam Riley. Teaching in the salon focuses on the main services such as shampooing and conditioning hair, blow drying hair and cutting hair. Students are encouraged to act in a professional manner, have excellent time keeping and adhere to the health and safety rules, as they would in the workplace. Within this environment, students learn well, enjoy the experience of working in the salon, make new friends, aim high and achieve excellent results.

All aspects of the course are assessed by the internal verifier to meet VTCT and regulatory requirements. An external verifier, appointed by the VTCT visits the salon to sample and quality-check the assessments.

Underpinning this qualification student will develop a good knowledge of Health & Safety and what it is like to work in the hairdressing industry. They will also develop a knowledge and understanding of the practical skills learned throughout this qualification.
The purpose of this qualification is to develop skills to a high level of occupational ability to enable students to perform their own services and assist others.

So why choose hairdressing?

Provides a good platform for working as a modern apprentice.

• Develops creativity & hairdressing skills.
• Develops confidence & communication skills.
• Enhances social & negotiation skills.
• Encourages independent learning.
• Provides a workplace experience.