Hairdressing Level 1 (SCQF Level 4)

Course overview

This exciting 18-week course covers the basic skills required to start your career in the Hairdressing industry.

Throughout the course, you will have practical sessions working on clients and mannequin heads, along with theory classes covering the knowledge required to complete all written work and e-assessments required for the course. You will be required to have access to IT to enable you to complete parts of the course, e.g. laptop, Pc, iPhone, Android phone, Tablet, iPad.

You will work as a team with your peers, preparing and delivering hairdressing services including shampooing, conditioning, blow drying and removing colour, as well as with your clients. You must also be prepared to work with other people to allow you to complete the practical elements of the course.  

Training at Edinburgh College will enhance your employability prospects as we have an exceptional standard of facilities and highly qualified lecturers. You will work in our salons or studios, providing a realistic industry environment and gaining essential practical experience working on paying clients with high-end product companies such as Wella, which will enhance your employment prospects. Edinburgh College is a recognised Centre of Excellence by Wella and also houses the Wella Training Studio for Scotland. This amazing collaboration ensures students receive the most up-to-date training in innovations and techniques within the industry.

Once you have completed the course, you can progress onto the Preparation for Level 2 Diploma in Hairdressing in Semester 2 and thereafter either the Level 2 Diploma in Hairdressing or Level 2 Diploma in  Barbering courses the following August.

Please note:

• There is an additional cost for the course kit, uniforms and books which must be purchased before starting the course. 
•  Students will also be expected to bring in clients for practice and assessment purposes

If you are interested in being a model for our students or want to try out our star facilities before beginning your studying journey, book in for a treatment.

Hair Salons, Beauty Salons and Barbershop | Edinburgh College

• Consultation Services
• Health and Safety
• Shampoo and Condition Hair
• Blow Dry Hair
• Plaiting and Twisting Hair
• Assist with Hair Colouring and Lightening Services
• Working as a Team Member
• Work Placement

Placement information

• All students at this level will be expected to be actively seeking a work placement in preparation for progression to Semester 2.
• This is mandatory for progression to the Preparation to Level 2 Diploma in Hairdressing in January.

How the course is assessed

• All practical aspects of the course are assessed on paying clients within our salons.
• The theoretical aspects of the course are carried out online, completing open-book assignments.

Number of days per week

• 2 days per week, 9 AM to 4 PM, plus one evening, 4.30 PM - 8.00 PM.

Entry requirements

• All applicants must be 16 years of age or older before the start of the course and hold:
• Minimum of 3 National 4s passes – (one must be English), mature applicants will be considered depending on qualifications and experience

Or

• Have completed the SCP VTCT level 1 Extended Certificate and VTCT level 2 Certificate in Hair and Beauty Skills

Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements

Applicants will be given a date to attend an information/interview, which will involve:

• Group Information session with Q and A
• Face-to-face interview
• Written task– this task will be scored

In exceptional cases, the interview may be carried out via Microsoft Teams or a formal telephone interview, where you will be asked relevant questions relating to the course, your goals and experience

Written Task:

You will also be requested to complete a basic written task, which will be scored.

The formal interview has a scoring criterion based on communication skills at the interview, along with the written task

Hair and Beauty Applicant Privacy Notice

English Proficiency Requirements

Progression and Articulation Routes

• Preparation to Level 2 Diploma in Hairdressing – Semester 2
• Level 2 Diploma in Hairdressing (August 2026)
• Level 2 Diploma in Barbering – Granton Campus (August 2026)

Career options

• Opportunity into employment within the Hairdressing industry at a junior level, or continue with your studies to prepare for Level 2 Hairdressing