West College Scotland – Transitions 2 Barbering

West College Scotland runs Transitions 2 Barbering at SCQF Level 4 as a pre-apprenticeship academy, delivered at its Paisley and Clydebank campuses. It runs 16 weeks at 16 hours a week from August to December, and includes a work placement in a barbershop or salon.

Be clear about what this is. It is designed to prepare young people for a Modern Apprenticeship in barbering or hairdressing, and the college describes the content as basic knowledge and understanding of barbering and hairdressing, so it is preparation for the trade rather than a barbering qualification in itself. No awarding body and no named qualification appear on the course page. There are no formal entry requirements, but a successful informal interview is needed before a place is offered, and applicants must be 16 or turn 16 within four weeks of the start. Teaching takes place in the college’s salon facilities with industry partners including Wella. Fees are not listed and applicants are directed to the college’s funding support. If you already have some experience, ask about the college’s Intermediate Barbering course at Level 5 instead.