Hair and Beauty Skiills Level 1
This course provides a broad introduction to both hair and beauty, allowing you to explore different skills before choosing your next pathway.
You will:
- Gain hands-on experience in a salon-style environment
- Learn essential practical techniques used in the industry
- Build confidence, communication, and customer service skills
- Understand how professional salons operate
- Develop employability skills to support progression or career change
Teaching combines practical sessions with theory-based learning, supporting adult learners who may be returning to study or learning something completely new.
-
Sector Overview
The Hair and Beauty Industry is vibrant, flexible, and full of opportunities. Careers can range from salon-based roles and self-employment to specialist and freelance work. With strong demand for skilled professionals, this course gives you a solid foundation to begin your journey into an exciting and rewarding sector.
If you’re looking for a fresh start, a new direction, or a practical career where creativity meets people skills, the Level 1 Diploma in Hair and Beauty Skills is the ideal place to begin.
This course is designed for adults aged 19+ who may be new to the industry or returning to education. It offers a supportive introduction to hair and beauty, helping you build confidence, develop practical skills, and explore future career pathways in a friendly and professional learning environment.
-
Entry Requirements
To enrol on this course, you will need:
- A successful initial assessment
- An interview
No previous experience in hair and beauty is required. Functional Skills in English and/or Maths may also be offered alongside the course to support progression.
-
What will I study?
You will study a range of introductory units, which may include:
- Health, safety, and hygiene in the salon
- Introduction to the hair and beauty industry
- Shampooing and conditioning hair
- Basic hair styling, plaiting, and twisting
- Manicure and pedicure
- Nail art techniques
- Basic skincare treatments
- Head massage
- Face painting
- Presenting a professional image
These units help you build confidence, coordination, and practical ability while discovering which area of hair and beauty interests you most..
-
How will I be assessed?
Assessment is supportive and designed to help you succeed. You will be assessed through:
- Practical activities
- Written tasks and worksheets
- Tutor observation
All assessments give you a clear opportunity to pass and progress.
-
Enrichment
To enhance your learning and career progression, you will have the opportunity to take part in exciting enrichment activities, including trips to major industry events such as Professional Beauty and Salon International. Guest speakers and employer led workshops will also help you build industry knowledge, confidence, and professional connections.
-
Work Experience
You will be offered opportunities to engage with hair and beauty industry employers and participate in experiential activities designed to develop your practical skills, professionalism, and employability.
-
Progression Opportunities
The completion of this course will allow you to progress onto:
- Hairdressing Level 2
- Barbering Level 2
- Beauty Therapy Level 2
-
Alumni
Waltham Forest College is a vibrant and aspirational college and will support you to reach your career aspirations. Last year 96% of learners on a Level 1 programme progressed onto Level 2 either within the Hair & Beauty Department or onto other courses within Waltham Forest College.
