Introduction
This multi-skills Hairdressing course combines practical training and knowledge of theory to cover all aspects of hairdressing. You will learn a variety of techniques while gaining valuable hands-on experience.
If you are looking to build a career in hairdressing, this course will help you develop the foundational skills needed for success. You will also have opportunities to participate in various activities such as competitions, presentations, training workshops and demonstrations.
With strong industry connections, the department emphasises work experience as a key component of the course. You will be assigned a salon to attend during your work placement unit; however, part-time salon employment would be beneficial to gain an insight into salon life and build practical skills.
Course code
SMSH
Location
Dumfries Campus
Duration
Full Time
Attendance 2 or 3 days per week. 1 year (36 weeks)
Please note this may be subject to change.
Additional hours for work experience attendance may be required.
Entry Requirements
Minimum entry requirements:
Two National 4 qualifications, SCQF Level 4 English or ESOL Level 4; OR
other equivalent qualifications or experience.
Applicants whose first language is not English should have minimum ESOL Intermediate level 2 or equivalent for NC/NQ courses and ESOL Higher for HNC/D courses.
You are required to be 16 years of age by August 2026 to undertake this course.
Entry to this qualification is at the discretion of the centre. However, for health and safety reasons it is the centres responsibility to ensure that candidates must be 16 years of age at the time of registration. HABIA Fact Sheet – Pre 16 Age restrictions
HABIA Fact Sheet – Pre 16 Age restrictions
Information and Interview Session Requirements
If selected, you will be asked to attend an in-person selection session where you will have the opportunity to demonstrate your skills, experience, enthusiasm and suitability for this course.
Please be aware that there are only 2 selection sessions available. We strongly recommend that you attend the first session as offers will be made from the session and this may reduce the places available for the second session.
Session dates are:
Tuesday 24th March
Tuesday 5th May
You must attend one to be able to be considered for a place on the course.
At the session you will also be required to bring:
Evidence of your qualifications, employment experience, interest in the sector demonstrated in your personal statement.
We will ensure the entry requirements, and your aspirations and career plans are appropriate for the course and the level of course you have applied for.
Entry Test Information – Hairdressing Applicants
As part of the interview process for the Level 5 Hairdressing course, all applicants will be asked to complete a short entry test.
The purpose of the entry test is to help us understand your current skills, learning needs, and readiness for the course. It is not a pass or fail test, and you are not expected to have any previous hairdressing experience.
The entry test may include:
Short written questions
Basic numeracy questions
Simple scenarios related to salon work and customer care
The information gathered from the test helps us to:
Place you on the correct level of course
Identify any additional learning support you may benefit from
Ensure you are fully supported throughout your studies
Completion of the entry test is a mandatory part of the interview process.
Course Content
What you will learn
Anatomy and Physiology
Health, safety and hygiene
Client consultation
Manicure treatments
Pedicure treatments
Waxing treatments
Facial skincare treatments
Lash and brow treatments
Makeup techniques
This may be subject to change.
Assessments
Key Points for Assessment
Closed book Multiple Choice question papers for assessments for knowledge and understanding.
Vocational Focus: Assessments are designed to support career progression by reflecting real-world, work-related tasks.
Holistic Observation: Each unit will be assessed primarily through observations of practical activities, ensuring that the process is realistic and reflective of workplace scenarios.
Knowledge Demonstration: Learners must demonstrate essential knowledge and understanding that supports their skills practice. This ensures they can deliver services or treatments safely and effectively.
Action-Based Reflection: Where appropriate, learners will be asked to provide recommendations or action plans, reinforcing their ability to reflect and respond professionally.
Intellectual Rigor: Assessment tasks will require critical thinking and analysis, with expectations aligned to the academic and professional level of the qualification.
Progression
This qualification could lead to employment within the Beauty sector and as a progression to further training within the chosen subject area within the college.
Explore your future career options.
With additional qualifications this could include Salon Beauty Therapist/ Spa Therapist/ Self-employed Beauty Therapist/Salon Owner/ Beauty Therapist on board a cruise ship/ Beauty Therapist Trainer/Educator or Nail Technician.
Career Prospects
This course opens a range of exciting career opportunities by equipping learners with both the practical skills and the professional insight needed to thrive in a dynamic industry environment.
Vocational and Technical Roles
- Beauty Therapist / Spa Professional (if linked to wellness/spa industry)
- Skincare Specialist or Massage Therapist
- Health and Wellness Consultant
- Salon or Spa Supervisor / Manager
Transferable Skills for Diverse Sectors
The course also develops highly transferable skills—communication, problem-solving, organisation, and reflective thinking—which are valued in:
- Retail and customer service
- Hospitality and tourism
- Health and fitness industries
- Training or mentoring roles
Additional funding information
You may be eligible for Bursary or EMA (Education Maintenance Allowance) funding for this course. Please contact a member of the funding team for details.
Selling Points
This course is not just a qualification—it’s a launchpad for a thriving career, a stepping stone to leadership, and a platform for personal and professional success.