Preparation to Beauty Care NC6

Course overview

This exciting 18-week course covers the essential skills to prepare you for progression to SCQF Level 6 Beauty Care

The course is a combination of Level 5 NPAs and Level 6 units, covering the basic beauty skills required for entry into the industry, including

• Client Consultation
• Facial Techniques
• Manicure
• Pedicure
• Nail Art
• Waxing
• Scalp, Back, Neck, and Shoulders Massage.

By working in our realistic salon environments, you will gain valuable, practical experience that enhances your skills and improves your employability prospects. You will be assessed on your practical abilities, along with written assessment criteria where applicable. 

You will be provided with up-to-date training in new technologies, techniques for high-end products, and equipment from representatives in the beauty industry. Training at Edinburgh College will enhance your employability prospects, as we offer exceptional facilities and highly qualified lecturers.

On completion of this course, you can apply for the NC Level 6 Beauty Care.

Please note:

• There is an additional cost for the course kit, uniforms and books – this must be purchased before starting the course (a bursary will cover the cost of these if you are eligible)

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

Hair Salons, Beauty Salons and Barbershop

Placement information

• There is no work placement required for this course; however, you will have the opportunity to work with clients in our realistic employability salons and studios.

How the course is assessed

• All practical assessments are carried out on paying clients within our salons.
• Assessment of the theory will include portfolio building, as well as open- and closed-book assessments.

Number of days per week

• Two days per week, between 9 AM and 5 PM

Entry requirements

• All applicants must be at least 16 years of age by the course start date.
• Hold a minimum of three National 5s qualifications at SCQF Level 4 or a Level 2 Beauty Therapy qualification.
• Mature students can gain entry with a successful interview.

Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements

Please include a strong personal statement as part of your application, which explains your reasons for wanting to be on the course. Once completed, we will review your Personal Statement in conjunction with the rest of your application.

Thereafter, successful applicants will be invited to a formal interview, which may be conducted online or on campus, to discuss their application and their reasons for pursuing NC Level 6 Beauty Care.

The formal interview has a scoring criterion based on presentation and communication skills at the interview.

What will happen on the day of your interview? 

1. You must turn up for the interview on time.
2. You have to be available for up to 2 hours, as there is a lot to get through  
3. You will be shown a PowerPoint presentation covering the course content and student life at Edinburgh College. 
4. You will complete a written assessment and answer a few short questions based on your skills and goals within the beauty industry. 
5. Please read the Prep to NC6 Beauty Briefing Document to prepare for the written assessment. 
6. You will then be given a brief one-on-one interview, which will provide you with an opportunity to ask any questions you may have.  
7. You must bring in your original certificate for your qualifications, including your subject information, as well as a record of your core skills and a photocopy of both.   
8. All candidates must present themselves for the interview wearing a black top, black trousers, black shoes, light daytime makeup, and their hair tied back. 

English Proficiency Requirements

Progression and Articulation Routes

• NC Level 6 Beauty Therapy (36-week course the following year).

Career options

• This course enables further progression to our NC Level 6 Beauty Care qualification.
• You will gain some practical skills to work within a beauty salon as a Junior Beauty Therapist.