Hairdressing Professional Level 2 Apprenticeship
Various start dates from August 2025

The Hairdressing Professional Level 2 Apprenticeship is the perfect starting point for anyone looking to begin a career in the hairdressing industry. This hands-on programme equips you with the essential skills and knowledge to work as a junior stylist in a salon, delivering a wide range of hairdressing services to clients.

As an apprentice, you’ll be employed in a salon while receiving structured training at Bolton College. The course typically lasts 24 months and combines practical experience with classroom-based learning to help you develop your confidence, creativity, and professionalism.

We have no live vacancies at the moment
You can also find your own employer. If you already have an employer who is willing to take you on as an apprentice, then click the yellow 'Express an Interest' button and we will ask for the employer details as part of the request

You’ll learn how to shampoo, condition, cut, style, and finish hair using a variety of techniques. You’ll also be trained in colouring and lightening hair, as well as how to carry out consultations and recommend products and services to clients.

The course covers essential topics such as health and safety, hygiene, customer service, and working with different hair types and textures. You’ll also develop your communication skills and learn how to work effectively as part of a salon team.

There are no formal qualifications needed to start the Hairdressing Professional Level 2 Apprenticeship—just a strong interest in hairdressing and a desire to learn and grow in the industry. This programme is ideal for school leavers or individuals looking to retrain in a creative and customer-focused profession.

However, some employers may set their own entry requirements, such as GCSEs in English and Maths. If you have not yet achieved a GCSE Grade 4/C (or equivalent) in these subjects, you will be required to complete Functional Skills Level 1 (and work towards Level 2) as part of your apprenticeship. Don’t worry—Bolton College will support you throughout your training.

You’ll be assessed throughout the apprenticeship through practical observations, written assignments, and a portfolio of evidence. Your college tutor and employer will help you track your progress and prepare for your final assessment.

At the end of the programme, you’ll complete an End Point Assessment (EPA), which includes:

A practical skills test
A professional discussion
A workplace observation
An online multiple-choice test

Our £75 million campus offers:
• A fitness suite and sports hall
• Apple Mac suites
• Libraries
• A theatre and dance studios
• A café selling Costa coffee
• Wella-approved hair salons
Strong Number 1 for Achievement Rates/strong
We’re the number one General Further Education College in Greater Manchester for 16-18 achievement rates for higher level qualifications.
Strong Ofsted Grade 2 ‘Good’/strong
Ofsted also agrees; on our last inspection we were graded 2 for Good. Ofsted highlighted the fact that our learners develop good employability and personal skills and that a high proportion progress to Apprenticeships, employment or Higher Education.

In the first instance please send an email to apprenticeships@boltoncc.ac.uk

If you’re interested in this apprenticeship, the first step is to register your interest with Bolton College. This will add you to our mailing list so we can keep you informed about any upcoming apprenticeship vacancies or employer opportunities in your chosen field.

To begin the apprenticeship, you’ll need to secure employment with an organisation willing to support you as an apprentice. While it is your responsibility to find and apply for suitable roles, Bolton College is here to help. We have a dedicated Job Shop located within the college, where you can meet with an Employer Engagement Advisor for tailored support and advice on how to apply for vacancies and prepare for interviews.

Job Shop Opening Times:
Monday – Friday
9:00am – 3:30pm
Email: Job.shop@Boltoncc.ac.uk
Tel: 01204 482182

After completing this apprenticeship, you’ll be qualified to work as a junior stylist in a salon or even start your own freelance business. You may also choose to progress onto the Level 3 Hairdressing Apprenticeship to further develop your skills and take on more advanced responsibilities.

The hair and beauty industry offers a wide range of career paths, from salon work to fashion, media, and education.

We have a range of dedicated support and wellbeing services including FREE travel, financial support, and impartial advice and guidance. Throughout your Apprenticeship, you’ll also receive one-to-one support from your dedicated Work Based Tutor, helping you to achieve your ambitions

We’re an elite College, and part of the University of Bolton Group, offering you a gateway to all of Greater Manchester’s vast range of fantastic opportunities for specialist careers, university degree courses and higher Apprenticeships.

We’ll reward your achievements with trips to The Anderton Outdoor Activity Centre and the opportunity to apply for the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh Award.

Our £75 million campus offers a refurbished fitness suite and sports hall; Apple Mac suites; libraries, a lecture theatre; hair and beauty salon; and a restaurant, café and canteen.

You’ll also enjoy a wide range of events, including showcases, enterprise activities and cultural celebrations.

Click the yellow ‘Apply’ button on this page to express your interest.

You’ll be asked to set up a Learner Hub account, so that you can track your application. If we dont think you're ready for an Apprenticeship yet, we'll recommend a relevant Study Programme that could eventually lead to the Apprenticeship you're interested in.

If you have any difficulties setting up your Learner Hub account, please email learner.hub@boltoncc.ac.uk

Although every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained within this document is accurate, there may be changes to this programme and provision. We will endeavour to keep prospective and current students updated where appropriate and when the information becomes available.