Hairdressing Courses in Wales

A hairdressing apprenticeship combines paid employment with work-based learning. You develop practical hairdressing skills in a real salon while working towards a nationally recognised qualification.

For employers, an apprenticeship provides a structured way to recruit and develop new talent or upskill existing employees.

Our hairdressing apprenticeships are available to eligible learners aged 16 and over who live and work in Wales. There is no upper age limit, so apprenticeships are suitable for people starting their career as well as adults already working in the industry.

If you are already working in a salon and want to gain a recognised hairdressing qualification, you may also be able to complete an apprenticeship with your current employer.

No. If you are a salon owner looking to recruit, we can support you with apprenticeship opportunities and help you understand the process.

If you already have a member of staff who you would like to develop, they may also be able to complete an apprenticeship in their existing role, subject to eligibility.

Yes. Apprenticeships are not only for new recruits. Existing employees may be able to undertake a hairdressing apprenticeship to gain a recognised qualification and develop their skills while continuing in their current role.

This can be a useful option for salons looking to invest in their existing team.

Eligible hairdressing apprenticeships are fully funded by the Welsh Government, so there is no training fee for eligible learners or employers.

Apprentices employed through a new vacancy will also receive a wage in line with the applicable employment requirements.

Entry requirements can vary depending on the apprenticeship and learner. Level 2 is designed to provide the foundations for a career in hairdressing, while Level 3 is aimed at developing more advanced skills.

If you are unsure which level is right for you, our team can help you understand your options.

Yes. If you are already employed in a salon, you may be able to complete a hairdressing apprenticeship as part of your current role.

Your training can be applied directly to your day-to-day work, allowing you to develop your skills while gaining a recognised qualification.

The length of a hairdressing apprenticeship depends on the qualification and the learner’s circumstances. Our Level 2 and Level 3 hairdressing programmes are designed to be completed alongside employment, with training and assessment taking place within the workplace.

Training and assessment are delivered within the salon, allowing learners to develop practical skills in a real working environment.

Learners can also access online learning resources to support their qualification.

Level 2 focuses on the foundations of professional hairdressing. Depending on the qualification, this can include shampooing and conditioning, cutting, styling, colouring, client consultation and other essential salon skills.

Level 3 develops more advanced hairdressing skills and salon practices. Depending on the qualification, this can include advanced colouring, colour correction, specialist treatments and other techniques designed to broaden your professional skillset.

Yes. As you gain experience and develop your qualifications, you can progress towards roles such as senior stylist, colour technician, salon supervisor or salon manager.

Further specialist training can also help you develop expertise in particular areas of hairdressing.

Yes. We work with salons throughout the apprenticeship journey, supporting employers with recruitment, training, assessment and learner development.

Our aim is to make the apprenticeship work for both the learner and the business.

Yes. Apprenticeships can be used as part of your staff development strategy, helping existing employees gain recognised qualifications while developing skills that can be applied directly within your salon.

Speak to our team to discuss your business and find out which apprenticeship options could be suitable.