Hairdressing is a career that lets you express your creativity, connect with people, and make a real difference in how people feel about themselves. Our Hairdressing - Level 3 study programme builds on the skills developed at earlier levels, from cutting and styling to experimenting with colours. No two days are the same, and you’ll always have a chance to try something new and exciting.
Hairdressing offers many opportunities, from working in high-end salons to becoming a freelance stylist or even running your own business. You could specialise in areas like bridal hair, fashion shows, or film and TV. The industry is always growing, and there’s plenty of room to carve out your own unique path.
As part of the programme, you'll study for the VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Women’s Hairdressing, which has been designed with salon experts to take your practical skills to the next level and prepare you for success in the industry.
At Level 3, you'll develop more than just technical skills; the course will help you become a true professional who can thrive in any salon environment.
You'll be working in The Salon, based at Hammersmith & Fulham College, which is open to the public, giving you real life customer service and client care experience. In addition, we also have an end-of-year show for you to showcase your best work on a catwalk to family, friends, industry experts and employers.
You will need:
- Four GCSEs grade 4 or above, including English and maths (or equivalent Functional Skills at Level 2)
and
- Level 2 Hairdressing, or equivalent
You will also have an interview alongside a practical trade test, so we can ensure the course is right for you.
You may also need to complete an initial assessment in English and Maths, depending on your grades.
Excellent attendance and punctuality are key elements of employability.
Your assessments are designed to match what you’ve learned. All your work will be marked by your tutors, giving you a chance to show off your skills in real-world situations.
You’ll be graded on a scale of Distinction, Merit, Pass, or Unclassified. This grading system helps you see how well you’re doing and where you can improve.
You’ll build a portfolio of your coursework, showcasing your progress throughout the course. Plus, you’ll get hands-on experience through practical assignments and receive feedback from your tutors.
After completing this course, you'll be well-prepared for employment as a qualified hairdresser. In addition, many students go onto study specialist qualifications and training, or add additional beauty therapy qualifications to enhance their salon repetoire.
Units covered can include:
- Health and safety in the salon
- Hairdressing consultation
- Hair cutting services
- Hair colouring services
- Setting and dressing services
- Blow drying and finishing services
- Colour correction services
School Leavers (16-18)
If you will be 16, 17 or 18 years old on 31 August before your course starts, and you have the legal right to live in the UK for the full length of your study programme, your course will be free.
You may also be eligible for financial help to support with books, travel, course materials and childcare costs â please click here for more information.
Adult Students (19+)
If you will be aged 19 or older on 31 August before your course starts, are resident in London, and have the legal right to stay in the UK for at least 12 months, you may be eligible to study for free, depending on your circumstances and chosen course. For more information, please click here.
You may also be eligible for financial help to support with books, travel, course materials and childcare costs â please click here.
You may be eligible for financial help to support with books, travel, course materials and childcare costs â please click here for more information.
Additional Costs
You will need to purchase salon wear, equipment, textbooks and pay a fee towards consumables used on the course:
- Hairdressing Kit - £165.09
- Women’s Uniform - £51:45/Men’s Uniform - £37:00
- Locker Key - £10.00
- Top-Up for Progressing Students (Level 2 to Level 3) - £152.46
Many of our students are eligible for financial support to help cover part, or all, of these costs - please click here for more information.




