Level 3 Diploma in Hairdressing studies

This study programme is designed to help you move quickly toward advanced jobs, higher education, or apprenticeship opportunities if you know what you want to do next and meet the entry requirements needed for success.

Achieving a Level 3 qualification will improve your future earning potential and career choices. It also allows you to progress to Higher Education, Higher Apprenticeships, and Degree Apprenticeships. These can lead to roles like advanced technician or skilled supervisor at Level 3, and eventually to management or professional status as you continue your studies.

To study at Level 3, including all T Level and A Level programmes, you will need an average entry score of 5.0 from your best 6 GCSE subjects, ideally including English and Maths.

All assessments are designed to ensure you can demonstrate your practical ability and understanding of professional hairdressing techniques.

You’ll be assessed with practical observations in our salons, alongside written assignments and online tests that check your knowledge and understanding.

Throughout the course, you’ll also build a portfolio of your work, giving you a visual record of your progress and achievements that you can use for future opportunities.

After completing the Level 3 course, you’ll be ready to work as a Senior Stylist or Advanced Hairdresser, either in a salon or as a self-employed professional.

You may choose to specialise in areas such as bridal styling, colour correction, or creative cutting, or explore opportunities across industries including media, theatre, cruise ships, and the armed forces.

There are also opportunities to work with product manufacturers as a technician or trainer.

If you’d like to continue developing your skills, you can progress onto further study, such as a specialised apprenticeship, university, or a Level 4 qualification in areas like salon management or advanced hairdressing techniques.

Level 3 learner, Lauren, is looking forward to her next steps, thanks to the skills she’s gained on the course:

“Working in the Salon has given me a chance to look at what I could go into after College. I’ve even had the chance to take on the role of ‘Manager’ which has been eye-opening.

“Working with real clients is always great and has helped to build my communication skills. I feel really confident now about progressing into a salon when I finish College.”

There are no fees for this course if you are under 18.

If you are aged 19 or above, please contact us for more information about fees and funding.

From taking part in College events to visiting major industry expos such as Salon International, you’ll experience a range of trips and opportunities that deepen your understanding of hairdressing.

By working with local partners, you’ll also explore what your future career can look like once you finish your studies.

There’s even the opportunity to take part in social action projects across the campus during our Community Weeks. These activities not only boost your personal growth, but are an opportunity to give back and impact Folkestone for the better.

If that wasn’t enough, competitions throughout the year, such as KFE4Skills, help you understand the professional standards required for success in this ever-changing industry. Whether you want to explore new trends, best practices or quick tips to elevate your looks, they are the perfect opportunity to gain experiences that will help you stand out above the rest

You will need to buy uniform and kit from our supplier, which will be used during the course. More details and full costs can be discussed at an Applicant Day.