How to become a hairdresser
You could get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
College
You could take a college course that will give you some of the skills and knowledge you'll need to start in this career.
Courses include:
- hairdressing
- barbering
- women's and men's hairdressing
- T Level in Hairdressing, Barbering and Beauty Therapy
You may be able to combine these courses with other subjects like make-up and nails.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
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Apprenticeship
You could do an apprenticeship to get into this job, for example:
- Hairdressing Professional Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship
- Barbering Professional Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship
- Creative Hair Professional Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
These apprenticeships can take between 1 and 2 years to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Work
You might be able to start work as a trainee hairdresser or barber and learn on the job.
Your employer would expect you to take a part-time course to get qualifications, either at a college or in their own training school.
You may also be able to work freelance and rent space in a salon or barbershop, though you'll usually have to supply your own equipment.
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Career tips
If your aim is to manage or open your own salon or barbershop, it may help to get some business qualifications alongside hairdressing experience.
Further information
You can find out more about careers in hairdressing and barbering from the Hair and Beauty Industry Authority (HABIA) and National Hair and Beauty Federation (NHBF).