Level 2 Diploma in Hairdressing Studies

This course is designed for learners who want to gain the complete set of core skills required to work confidently as a junior stylist. It is ideal for school leavers, adult learners and those progressing from Level 1 Hairdressing. You should enjoy working creatively, communicating with clients, and developing hands‑on technical skills in a professional environment.

Applicants must have a minimum grade 4 in Maths and English (or the equivalent). Completion of Level 1 Hairdressing or previous industry experience are beneficial but not essential. A positive attitude, professional behaviour, strong communication skills, and enthusiasm for practical learning are important for success.

The VTCT Level 2 Diploma in Hairdressing provides the full foundation required for working in a commercial salon. You will develop a broad range of professional skills, including:

• Client consultation and hair analysis
• Shampooing, conditioning and scalp treatments
• Cutting hair using a range of techniques (one‑length, layers, graduation)
• Colouring and lightening services (including roots, full‑head, foils)
• Blow‑drying, setting and styling the hair
• Plaiting, twisting and creating hair‑up looks
• Create an Image
• Health, safety and hygiene in the salon
• Professional image, customer service and communication

This Diploma gives you the competence, creativity and confidence needed to work effectively in a salon environment.

Learning takes place through a blend of:

• Practical sessions in our fully equipped training salon
• Project‑based work, including planning and completing full hair transformations
• Portfolio building, showcasing your practical evidence, written tasks and achievements
• Demonstrations, workshops and hands‑on practice
• Interactive theory lessons to underpin practical knowledge

You will work on real clients, participate in creative projects, and develop both technical ability and professional salon behaviour.

You will need a professional hairdressing uniform, closed‑toe salon shoes, and basic stationery for theory work. A folder is required to organise and maintain your portfolio of evidence. Jewellery should be kept to a minimum for safety. Kit requirements will be confirmed at enrolment.

You will be assessed through:

• Practical observations of cutting, colouring, styling and consultation skills
• Written assignments to demonstrate theoretical understanding
• Short online or paper‑based exams for knowledge units
• Portfolio evidence documenting your progress and completed services

Assessment is continuous and designed to help you develop confidence and competency to industry standards.

After achieving your Level 2 Diploma, you can progress to:

• The VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Hairdressing
• Advanced Colouring and Creative Cutting qualifications
• Barbering programmes
• Apprenticeships
• Employment as a junior stylist, colour technician or salon assistant

This Diploma gives you the technical grounding needed to enter the hairdressing industry or advance to higher‑level training.

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