Level 1 Vocational Studies in Hair and Beauty (Pre-16 Only)

This programme is designed to give you an introduction into the hair and beauty industry, with an emphasis on practical learning in our newly refurbished, professional salons.

This programme is ideal for pre-16 learners who:

• Are interested in a career in Hair and Beauty Therapy
• Enjoy practical, hands-on learning
• Want to develop valuable skills for further education & employment
• Want to try something new

This course is for 15-year-old students (as of 31st August 2026) who are moving into Year 11. No formal qualifications are required but it is essential that applicants have a keen interest in the beauty industry, with the willingness to learn in a structured and supportive environment. Suitability for this course will be assessed through an interview with our dedicated Pre-16 team.

You’ll develop essential skills and knowledge including:

Hairdressing:

• Learn how to style men and women’s hair
• Select appropriate finishing products, tools and equipment
• Develop professional shampooing and conditioning methods
• Carry out basic hair plaiting and twisting techniques

Beauty Therapy:

• Develop nail art application and hand care techniques
• Learn and carry out basic skin care treatments
• Master the art of make-up application
• Study the professional set up of hair and beauty services

You will also learn the basic health and safety regulations in a salon environment.

At Brooklands Technical College, we pride ourselves in providing specialist facilities for our students. Our hair and beauty students benefit from our state-of-the-art salon environments across both campuses. Brooks Salon, a professional college-run salon is located at our Weybridge campus and in Ashford highstreet. The Weybridge salon is an integral part of the college campus and has been newly rebuilt and refurbished. Our Ashford salon has a prime, High Street location. Both are open to the public and offer a professional training environment for students to develop the skills needed for the industry.

You will also have the opportunity to take part in competitions and all students are expected to wear the salon’s uniform and present themselves in a professional manner.

All hair and beauty students are expected to wear the salon uniform in both locations to adhere to the salon’s professional requirements.

Once you have completed your course, students can progress onto the Level 2 certificate in Hair and Beauty.