Hairdressing SCQF 6 Modern Apprenticeship
What is special about this course?
This Modern Apprenticeship offers offers progression for individuals who have completed the SCQF 5 course or those who have extensive work experience and are looking to advance their skills in hairstyling. Combining work-based learning with college training, this route provides the dual benefit of gaining a nationally recognised qualification while earning a wage. The programme focuses on developing advanced skills in creative colouring, cutting, and styling, preparing apprentices for a career as a Hair Stylist or Barber working on the shop floor.
Apprentices will gain hands-on experience in both the college salon and the workplace, refining their practical skills while also learning about salon management, health and safety, and product promotion - key elements for progressing into leadership roles within the industry.
Entry requirements
- You must be in full-time employment with employer support to undertake the course.
- SVQ Hairdressing SCQF 5 OR extensive work experience.
Please note that applying for this course does not guarantee a Modern Apprenticeship place. Your application will be discussed with you in the first instance.
This Modern Apprenticeship consists of an SVQ, Core Skills, and Enhancements. It has been developed by the sector skills council, Habia, the Hair and Beauty Industry Authority. The SVQ contains a number of mandatory units that must be completed to achieve the qualification. These will be discussed with you prior to starting your apprenticeship.
The subjects studied are those essential to a full stylist, including:
- Consult, assess, plan, and prepare for hair, barbering, beauty, nails, wellbeing, and holistic services
- Implement and maintain safe, hygienic, and effective working practices
- Creatively set, style, dress, and finish hair using advanced techniques
- Combine hairdressing techniques to create a bespoke restyle look
- Creatively colour and lighten the hair using advanced techniques
- Provide hair colour corrective services
- Provide hair smoothing treatments
- Attach hair using heat, chemical adhesive, and/or advanced techniques
Additionally, the Modern Apprenticeship includes core skills in:
- Communication
- Working with others
- Problem-solving
- Information and communication technology
- Numeracy
How will I study my course?
- Work based
- Day release
As a Modern Apprentice, you will learn in the college salon and also gain hands-on experience in the workplace. Your progress will be supported through our online learning platform, where you'll submit evidence of your achievements as part of your portfolio. A designated assessor will visit your workplace to conduct reviews and observations, ensuring you stay on track.
How long will my course last?
It is expected that apprentices following this apprenticeship will take up to 24 months to complete.
Where can I study my course?
- Thurso
Start date
Rolling entry
Fees
Find out more about fees, fee waivers and funding options.
What can I do on completion of my course?
The hairdressing industry offers a range of potential career paths:
- Hair Stylist – Work in salons offering a wide range of services, including haircuts, styling, colouring, and treatments.
- Colour Technician – Specialise in hair colouring techniques and become an expert in creating and maintaining different hair colours and shades.
- Salon Manager – Oversee daily operations, staff, and client services in a salon.
- Freelance Stylist – Offer hairstyling services to clients in their homes or at special events.
- Educator or Trainer – Teach aspiring hairstylists at a cosmetology school or training centre.
- Product Sales Representative – Promote and sell hair care products for beauty companies.
- Fashion or Editorial Stylist – Work in the fashion and entertainment industries, styling models and actors for photoshoots and runway shows.
- Entrepreneurship – Open your own salon or offer specialised services in a niche area of hairstyling.
Building a successful career in hairstyling requires continuous learning. You may wish to pursue further education and certifications to enhance your skills and career prospects.
Is there more information available online?
You can use the above QR code to connect directly to the course details.
Apply for Hairdressing SCQF 6 Modern Apprenticeship
We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at UHI North, West and Hebrides. UHI North, West and Hebrides operates a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of age, disability, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion and/or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.