Skip to main content

Level 2 Certificate in Barbering

This course is perfect for all aspiring barbers. It will provide you with the opportunity to gain the knowledge and practical experience needed to master the basics.

Course Summary

Subject Area: Hair
School Leaver - Vocational/Technical
Full Time or Part Time: FT
Level: 2
Number Of Years: 1
Interview Required?: Y
The Roundhouse

Apply now at: https://www.derby-college.ac.uk/course/level-2-certificate-in-barbering
QR Code

Course Information for Students

This VTCT Level 2 qualification will provide you with the basic techniques needed to be successful as a barber.  It builds your confidence in the standard techniques before you progress to the Level 2 Diploma or Level 3 Diploma to master more advanced skills.

This course would be useful for anyone currently working in the sector without the formal qualification or hairdressers looking to broaden their skill set. 

Your timetable may include one late evening per week and you are expected to build up a client base in order to undertake your assessments.

You need to be highly motivated and demonstrate a keen interest in the subject. Offers of a place on the course are dependent on your qualifications and practical aptitude. Courses may be funded: this will depend on your employment status and prior qualification achievements.

Sector-related industry experience is desirable.

There are a range of mandatory units to complete, including:

  • Cut men’s hair
  • Cut facial hair
  • Client consultations
  • Health and safety in the salon

Please note: one late-night session may be on your timetable.

You are required to complete a portfolio of evidence.  Assessment is through a range of methods, including practical observations, online testing and assignment work. 

This course will be delivered on-site at the Roundhouse. It is highly practical and so a basic level of fitness is required as you may spend long periods on your feet between breaks.

Theory lessons will require you to take notes in order to revise terminology and learn processes.

You will be working with clients. Often they are people with whom you will not be familiar or you may be asked to find your own clients on whom to develop your techniques. You will also act as a client as part of a reciprocal agreement with your peers. You need to have a friendly and outgoing personality, you need to act professionally, and you need to be reliable, punctual and productive.

There is a kit to purchase: full details will be given at your interview.

The kit will contain the essentials required to carry out a range of techniques. Financial assistance will be available for eligible candidates.

Furthermore a uniform must be worn every day. This consists of black trousers or leggings and a black polo shirt. Closed-toe black shoes or trainers can be worn but these must be plain black (including the laces and logos).

You will be formatively assessed by a range of methods including practical observation, exams and assignments.

As the course is highly practical, you should expect to have a number of summative observations to ensure your competency in each technique and exams to assess your theoretical knowledge.

On successful completion of this programme, you will be able to progress to a more advanced Barbering course or alternatively move into women’s hairdressing.

Careers

This course is an excellent platform for a career as a barber.

For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk

Course Information for Employers

If you are an employer and would like to know more about the apprenticeships and professional training we deliver or how you can get involved in co-creating and co-delivering the curriculum, please contact us via email on businessenquiries@derby-college.ac.uk, call us on 01332 387 421 or visit our employer pages here.

Career Information

DCG Success Stories

Discover how our students have achieved success. Their hard work and dedication to learning has enabled them to succeed in rewarding careers or progress onto higher education.

role model

We encourage progress and aspirational outcomes by guiding people onto learning pathways that lead to positive destinations. Our students have gone on to achieve great things since leaving the College. We would like to share some of their inspiring success stories with you.

View Role Models

Find out what funding could be available to you:

Thinking about returning to education or developing new skills? Use our funding calculator below to get an estimate of the financial support you may be eligible for based on where you live.

Whether you’re looking to retrain, progress in your career, or try something new, funding could make your next step more accessible than you think.

Simply enter your postcode into the calculator to see an estimate of the funding that may be available in your area. This is based on regional funding allocations and typical eligibility criteria for adult learners.

Important:

The results shown are a guide only and are not a guarantee of funding.

Funding availability can vary depending on:

  • Your personal circumstances (such as age, employment status, and prior qualifications)
  • The course you choose
  • Government and local funding rules at the time of enrolment

If you’re considering adult learning, there’s never been a better time to explore your options.

Our courses are designed to fit around your life, with flexible study options and expert support every step of the way.

Find out more about the courses available. Adult Courses

If you have any questions about funding, eligibility, or courses, our team is here to help. Contact Us


Applications for 2026 Full-Time School Leaver Courses are now CLOSED FOR PROCESSING*

If you’ve already applied for a full-time vocational or academic course, please check your InTouch account to view your application status and accept any outstanding offers. We may also be trying to contact you by phone, so keep an ear out for calls from the College — to ensure we are progressing your first-choice course area.

Haven’t applied yet?

Your next opportunity will be during our Open Enrolment sessions, starting Wednesday 26th August at 12pm. Please note that places will be limited and subject to course availability, entry requirements, and interviews. Find out more about Enrolment and Clearing Enrolment: Enrolment and Clearing Information 2026

Course Information Last Updated On: October 17, 2025 10:46 am