Introduction to Hairdressing – Level 1
This course is perfect if you are interested in stepping into a career in the hairdressing industry. It will provide the opportunity to gain knowledge and practical experience in shampooing, conditioning and the art of long hair dressing. As part of your studies, you will be required to complete work experience to develop your skills and behaviours to support your progression to further study.
Course Summary

Course Information for Students
Who is this course for?
This course is perfect if you are interested in stepping into a career in the hairdressing industry but still need to work on you English and maths grades. It will provide the opportunity to gain knowledge and practical experience in shampooing, conditioning and the art of long hair dressing. As part of your studies, you will be required to complete work experience to develop your skills and behaviours to support your progression to further study.
This is a non-accredited course to support development of maths and English skills and bridge the gap to Level 2.
Entry Requirements
You need to be highly motivated and demonstrate a keen interest in your chosen subject. Offers of a place on the course are dependent on your qualifications and practical aptitude. You will need:
- a minimum of five GCSEs at grades 2-3 or above, including English and/or Maths (grade 2/3 or above).
You will have an interview and initial assessment in maths and English and will attend a taster session. Parents and carers are welcome to attend the interview but not the initial assessment. If you are successful, you will be allocated a place to study.
What will you learn?
Mandatory units are:
- Introduction to the hair and beauty sector
- Presenting a professional image in a salon
You will also study some of the following additional units:
- Shampooing and Conditioning Hair
- Colour in the Hair and Beauty Sector
- Styling Women’s Hair
- Styling Men’s Hair
- Plaiting and Twisting Hair
- Colouring Hair using Temporary Colour
- Creating a Hair and Beauty Image
- Following Health and Safety in the Salon
- Working with Others
- Reception Duties
- The Art of Dressing Hair
You will continue to study maths and English and develop your skills as part of your programme.
How will you learn?
This course will be delivered on-site.
What will you need to bring with you?
There is a kit and uniform to purchase: full details will be given at your interview.
How will you be assessed?
You will be assessed by a range of methods including practical observation and assignments.
Where next?
Further study
You can progress to the Intermediate Certificate in Hairdressing or an apprenticeship.
Careers
This course is an excellent starting point for a career in the hair and beauty sector.
Who do you contact for more information?
For more information contact Derby College on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk
Course Information for Employers
Information for Employers
Career Information
This course could lead to one of these careers...
Hairdressers and Barbers
£12887
Hairdressing and Beauty Salon Managers and Proprietors
£22022
Beauticians and Related Occupations
£12825
DCG Success Stories

Katie Weeds
Katie gets a head start in becoming a salon owner
Taking an apprenticeship gave me the hands-on training I needed to be able to qualify as a hair stylist and open my own salon. What I love most about my job is making people feel better about themselves.
Course Information Last Updated On: March 23, 2023 3:07 pm