Nottingham College – Barbering (VRQ Level 2)

Nottingham College runs a VRQ Level 2 Certificate in Barbering, awarded by City and Guilds, as a one-year full-time further education programme at the Adams Building on Stoney Street in the city centre, with one late evening each week. Units cover client consultation, shampooing, conditioning and treating hair and scalp, cutting men’s hair, cutting facial hair to shape, creating basic outlines, drying and finishing, colouring and lightening men’s hair, and workplace effectiveness.

Theory is studied alongside practical work in a commercial salon, where learners carry out services on paying clients. Work experience is required and a 30-hour placement is encouraged. Entry requires four GCSEs at grades 9-3 including English and maths, at least one at grade 9-4, or equivalent Functional Skills, plus a practical dexterity test before enrolment. Progression routes listed are NVQ Level 3 Barbering and the VRQ Level 3 Diploma in Hairdressing for Colour Technicians.