Beauty

Level 1
All new learners interested in Beauty can begin on Level 1 if you need to gain English and Maths qualifications.

At Level 1 you will explore both theory and practical skills, including:

• Applying make-up and creating images
• Promoting products and services
• Client care and health and safety
• Facial treatments, manicures and pedicures.
• Reception and salon duties
• Teamwork and communication
• Computer skills such as creating PowerPoint presentations.

Level 2
We offer different Level 2 options depending on your GCSE grades.

Level 2 VRQ Diploma in Beauty Therapy (with English and Maths)
Entry requirements: three GCSEs at grade 3 or above.

Core topics

• Working in beauty-related industries
• Health and safety
• Client care and communication
• Salon reception duties
• Facial treatments, manicures and pedicures
• Hair removal (waxing)
• Applying make-up and eye treatments
• Creating an image and promoting products/services.

Level 2 VRQ Diploma in Beauty Therapy (without English and Maths)
Entry requirements: three GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths.

Core topics include all of the above, plus:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Certificates in gel nails, spray tan, BIAB, head massage, and brow lamination.

Level 3 Diploma in Beauty Therapy Techniques (Full-time)
Entry requirements: four GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, including English and Maths, plus a Level 2 Beauty qualification.

Core topics:

• Working with colleagues in the industry
• Health and safety monitoring
• Client care and communication
• Product promotion and sales
• Body massage, Indian head massage, hot stone therapy
• Facial and body electrotherapy treatments.

Work experience
Work experience is an essential part of all full-time study programmes. You will complete a minimum of 35 hours in an industry-linked environment per academic year per qualification.

Your progress will be tracked through milestone assessments to prepare you for final exams. These include written tests, assignments, spoken questioning, practical skills demonstrations and a mock assessment.

For Level 3 qualifications, all grades carry UCAS points to support progression to higher education.

For VRQ Diploma courses at Levels 2 and 3, assessments take place in college.

Continuous on-course assessment includes:

• Practical observations (formative and summative)
• Externally set written or online modular tests
• Spoken questioning

Practical work at Levels 2 and 3 is graded as either Pass, Merit, or Distinction.
Theory exams at Levels 2 and 3 are graded as either Pass, Pass+, or Pass++.

The Level 2 VRQ Diploma in Beauty Therapy is for learners wishing to start a career in the beauty therapy industry. On completion of this course, you can progress into employment, onto an apprenticeship, or further your studies by moving onto a Level 3 qualification in beauty or nail technologies, or a Level 2 in Theatrical Make-up. 

The Level 3 Diploma in Beauty Therapy Techniques aims to provide learners with a range of specialist technical practical skills and knowledge. The course will equip you to seek employment or higher education pathways within the beauty and spa therapy industry.

Employment is found in nail bars/salons, beauty salons, media, cruise ships/hotels, spas, self-employment, product retail and manufacturing companies.

Opportunities for freelance work or self-employment are unlimited for motivated individuals.