Hairdressing

The hairdressing industry is growing, with new treatments and services being developed in response to customer demand. This means that there are many opportunities for skilled hairdressers.

We offer various hairdressing courses, from level 4 – 7 (HNC) to prepare you for employment within this industry.

We have excellent links with local employers and related organisations, which means students learn directly from specialists in the industry. Previous hairdressing students have benefited from sessions with Salon Services, Wella, Bridge 2 Business and Business Gateway, with demonstrations and training from the Great Barber Bash.

Not all learning takes place within a classroom or college setting. We take our students on visits, with previous students visiting local hairdressing businesses and getting the opportunity to compete UK-wide in the Association of Hairdressers & Therapists (AHT) competitions. They have also had the chance to go to Portugal with the college to complete a work placement, and learn more about how the industry works in another country.

Many hairdressing students also gain direct work experience through work placements. Previous students have completed work placements with companies such as Charlie Miller, Toni & Guy, and local hairdressing businesses. They also get hands-on experience by helping at events such as The Gathering (SCVO), Party at the Palace and the Children in Scotland annual conference.

Anna Shearer returned to college to study hairdressing after a long time away from education and hasn't looked back since. Find out more in this video

Careers in Hairdressing

A career in hairdressing allows you to develop artistic and creative skills in recreating styles and even developing new trends. There are over 12,000 hairdressers employed in Scotland, with many more running their own businesses. There is flexibility for working full-time, part-time and for setting your working hours at times convenient for you.

Our courses will give you the knowledge, skills, experience and networks to find your place within the industry. They can take you into positions such as hairdresser or colour specialist in hairdressing salons or product houses, such as Wella, in hotels and on cruise ships.