Weston College

Barbering at the Knightstone Campus in Weston-super-Mare is delivered by Weston College, which runs a Hair and Beauty Centre containing five purpose-built salons, including a barber shop that takes members of the public. The adult Level 2 Certificate in Barbering is taught one evening a week, on Wednesdays from 5pm to 9pm, over 24 weeks for the autumn intake or 21 weeks for the spring intake, with around 20 hours of independent study expected outside class. It covers advising and consulting with clients, cutting men’s hair using basic techniques, facial hair shaping, clipper maintenance and salon health and safety.

No formal qualifications are needed to enrol, although a Level 2 English qualification is recommended because of the written and exam components. Related provision includes a Level 1 introduction to hair and barbering skills, Level 2 and Level 3 hairdressing diplomas and a Hair Professional apprenticeship.