Skin Practitioner Level 5

Course overview

We are delighted to offer our New Skincare Practitioner course. 

This course is designed to meet industry requirements for developing a career as a Specialist Facial Therapist, with the opportunity to progress to study at an Advanced Level in Facial Aesthetic treatments, including non-surgical electrotherapy treatments and Cosmetic skin peeling in the second semester. (subject to meeting progression criteria) 

The course content will be delivered in line with the New National Occupational Standards for the Beauty Therapy industry. 

Why choose this course?

Choosing to study the Skincare Practitioner course at Edinburgh College means learning in a supportive, industry-focused setting where your confidence grows through hands-on, practical training. 

You’ll develop essential facial skills from skin analysis, professional cleansing, to massage and masque therapy—while working to high standards of client care, consultation, hygiene and professionalism. With access to realistic salon environments and opportunities to build experience while performing treatments for our extensive client base.

Through client work and community engagement, you’ll gain the practical skills, product knowledge, and aftercare expertise needed to progress in the beauty and aesthetics industry.

• Suitable for entry-level  
• Allows Progression route for experienced therapists to develop skills in the new Level 4 Award in Skin Needling, Skin peeling  
• Real client experience in professional salon settings
• Career-focused opportunities in non-surgical aesthetic therapies 
• Take the next step in your spa career—enrol today and elevate your expertise!

Please note: 

• There is an additional cost for the course kit, uniforms and books, which must be purchased prior to starting the course.

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 

Semester 1

• Develop core facial techniques, including professional skin analysis, cleansing, toning and moisturising.
• Perform a full client consultation, identify contraindications, and create a treatment plan tailored to individual needs.
• Apply facial massage techniques safely and effectively to support relaxation and improved skin appearance.
• Select and apply masque therapies appropriate to skin type and condition, and remove products correctly.
• Build professional product knowledge to support safe selection, correct usage and effective retail recommendations.
• Implement safe and hygienic working practices, including infection prevention, correct PPE use, and maintaining a clean workstation.
• Provide clear aftercare and homecare advice to help clients maintain results and support long-term skin health.
• Work confidently in a realistic salon environment, demonstrating professional standards, time management and client care.

Semester 2, following the successful entry criteria, you will study an Aesthetic Facial Practitioner Course.

• Facial Electrical Therapy treatments, including
  • Microcurrent
  • Galvanic therapies
  • Radiofrequency
  • Ultrasonic, high-frequency, low-intensity LED
  • Microdermabrasion
  • lymphatic drainage equipment
  • Skin analysis technologies
• Award in Skin Peeling
• Related Anatomy and Physiology

Placement information

• You will be required to work in our realistic salon environment on paying clients and eventually progress to working in our Clinical Aesthetic Therapies Salon. 

How the course is assessed

• All practical assessments are carried out on clients provided within our salons.   
• The theoretical aspects of the course are conducted under exam conditions, with both open- and closed-book assessments. 

Number of days per week

• 2 days per week 

Entry requirements

• You must be 16 years of age or older before the start date of the course
• You must hold 2 Highers or a Beauty/Spa therapy qualification equivalent
• A personal statement of 500 words or more on the application form  
• Successful interview  
• Progression to the advanced level in semester 2 is not automatic and will depend on candidates meeting the progression criteria for the level.

Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements

You will be invited to an interview with the college lecturers who are coordinating the course. 

The formal interview has a scoring criterion based on communication and interview responses. 

What will happen on the day of your interview?

• You must turn up for the interview on time. 
• You have to be available for up to 2 hours, as there is a lot to get through.
• You will be shown a PowerPoint presentation covering the course content and student life at Edinburgh College.
• You will complete a written assessment and a few short questions based on your skills and goals in the beauty industry. 
• Please read the Briefing Document on the skin and hair to prepare for the written assessment. 
• You will then have a short one-to-one interview, during which you can ask any questions. 
• You must bring in your original certificate for your qualifications, including your subject information, the record of your core skills, and a photocopy of both. 
• All candidates must present themselves for the interview wearing a black top, black trousers, black shoes, light day make-up and hair tied back.

Hair and Beauty Applicant Privacy Notice 

English Proficiency Requirements

Progression and Articulation Routes

• Advanced Facial: Level 4 Award Skin Needling

Career options

• Self-Employed Therapist
• Skincare Practitioner 
• Salon Manager 
• Advanced Facial Therapist   
• Aesthetic Skin Practitioner