Quick facts
| Qualification type | City & Guilds Level 3 Advanced Technical |
| Duration | 1 year |
| Study times |
You will be expected to be in college for a minimum of 3 days per week, from 9:15 to 4:00. Your timetable will be confirmed at induction. |
| Entry requirements |
Entry by interview, case by case basis. Applicants will have achieved a Grade 4 in both English & Maths. Applicants will have completed Level 2 Technical Certificate Hairdressing Diploma, and have achieved Merit, Distinction or Distinction* grade to progress to this advanced level. Students may also have achieved an NVQ Diploma in Hairdressing and have 3-5 years' experience in industry. Current WSC students wishing to progress to level 2 or 3 programmes, must have excellent attendance and have raised their achievement levels in year to progress on to higher level courses. This expectation also applies to Maths and English courses. |
| Campus |
The Academy of Hair and Beauty, West Suffolk College main campus, Bury St Edmunds |
| Work placements | Yes |
Is it for me?
This diploma is a great opportunity for anyone already in industry wanting to take their career to the next level. Whether you have recently completed a Level 2 qualification or are returning to education, this course will push you to be the best you can be and allow you to upskill and offer a wider range of advanced services.
You will study and acquire new cutting techniques and specialist colouring work, including colour correction. You will develop your creative abilities by designing hair, clothes and make-up for photographic shoots and competition work. The course prides itself on inspiring learners with detailed demonstrations and a real focus to develop, challenge and excel in the world of hairdressing.
Our Hairdressing department is recognised by both World Skills UK and the Fellowship of British Hairdressing as a Centre for Excellence, highlighting the world class expertise we deliver to our students. Join us to become a high-performing hairdresser and develop ambition, resilience, teamwork and curiosity to exceed in your career.
What you'll learn
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Cutting hair with a combination of techniques including finishing, razoring, disconnections, and asymmetric styles
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Creative colouring and lightening hair
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Broad product knowledge
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Creative styling and dressing hair
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Hair consultation services
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Hair colour correction services
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Creative hair design skills
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Cutting men's hair
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Creative perm styling
Equipment required for the course
Upon enrolment for this course, learners will receive order forms that list all the equipment, tools and uniform requirements of the course. The uniform will consist of black tailored trousers, smart leggings, a tunic top, plain black cardigan and flat black closed toe shoes.
An equipment list will include all electrical equipment, combs, brushes, hair pieces and scissors needed, including a kit bag. Learners will be required to purchase tuition/mannequin heads that will be used to learn all the practical skills for hairdressing and have access to the recommended textbook that supports the knowledge delivered for this course.
At the start of the academic year, you may also need to consider an additional cost for membership to The Fellowship for British Hairdressing, trips and activities throughout the year.
Work experience placements
Learners are required to find a work placement in a salon for at least one day per week, which will build relationships in the industry and could lead to employment in the future.
Assessment
This course is practically assessed on a unit-by-unit basis working on live models, with oral assessment used to support practical and written evidence. The second term has a synoptic practical assessment with live models, this covers practical skills and behaviours of a hairdresser. There will also be an end of course exam that covers theory. You will be graded Pass/Merit/Distinction/Distinction*.
Further study
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Hairdressing - Colouring Perming and Styling Services Technical Certificate Level 2
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Hairdressing Advanced Technical Diploma Level 3
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Media Make-up and Hair Artistry Advanced Technical Diploma Level 3
Example careers
- Hairdresser
- Senior Stylist
- Freelance Stylist
- Salon Owner
- Colour Technician
- Colour Specialist
Days & times
Starting September 2025