High levels of knowledge, technical ability and creativity are needed in order to successfully pursue a career in this industry. The profession offers qualified hairdressers and beauty therapists the flexibility to be self-employed and run their own businesses. Our students are national and regional award winners, testimony to the quality of teaching and training facilities we provide.
The course covers: Shampoo and condition hair and scalp Client consultation for hair services Working in the hair industry The art of photographic make up Cut women's hair Provide eyelash and brow treatments Follow health and safety practice Create an image based on a theme within the hair and beauty sector Apply make-up The art of dressing hair Under 19s will also be required to study Functional Skills English & maths Students are required to have attend a work placement in a salon on a weekly basis. Competition entry and visits are a compulsory part of the course which enables students to build on their skills, employability, industrial experience and knowledge of the world at work You will be taught practical sessions in our fully equipped Hair Salon open to the public for appointments during term time. Theory sessions will be delivered in the classroom
You will be assessed by your tutor through a portfolio of evidence based on the practical work you have produced. Other methods of assessment include written examinations and assignments.
You will need GCSE grade 3 in English and Maths or equivalent. If you do not have evidence of your English and Maths levels you will be assessed by the English & maths team.
Our qualified tutors will support and guide you in the classrooms/workshops and through tutorials as they help you to develop the skills and techniques required in industry. Learning Support is also available for those with learning difficulties/disabilities; please let us know on application if you require this service. If you need help or advice on other matters such as welfare and finance, please contact our Course Information Centres at Willesden or Wembley Park. We offer a programme of social and sports activities to all our students; full information is available from the Student Room at your centre of study. Student rooms are available for those who want to play games, meet up with friends or just chill. Annually we take part in a range of national and regional competitions in a wide range of subject areas for those keen to show off the skills they have gained on their courses. Competition entry is not compulsory and does not apply to all subject areas; please ask your tutor if it applies to your course.
“My experience at College of Northwest London, has been exciting, it has been thrilling and it has been full of opportunities, and we have the tutors that help us whenever we’re in need. We go on educational trips to get a feel for what university life is like. We have the careers advisors that help us on our path, our university path.”
“The facilities here are brilliant. You have range of courses you can study. My teachers in the Performing Arts department have got history in the industry, which is very useful. You get to ask them for advice and actual knowledge from the industry, and take that into your own work within the college also afterwards. ”
“At City of Westminster College, my experience has been the best of all the other colleges I’ve attended. The reason I like CWC is because the teachers make my journey easier with assessment and exams. I’m a Level Two Science student and I enjoy my lessons because most of them are practical, which are helpful for me. I love studying at CWC because you meet people from other countries – all over the world and from all different communities.”
“My favourite thing about studying here has definitely got to be the teachers. They’re really helpful, kind and in the industry, so it’s good.”
“The technical knowledge and hands-on experience gained during my apprenticeship at College of North West London have been invaluable, particularly in understanding site processes, health and safety requirements and the understanding of electrical systems.”
“My experience studying at City of Westminster College has been amazing. It’s been so welcoming; I enjoy it very much because of the staff members we have here. They’re very approachable and I could come to them with any question, and it will be answered straight away. And if I come early for a class, I can use the Learning Resources Centre, I can use the computers, the books, just to continue all my studies outside the classroom time.”
“The training process was seamless. I had good instructors who were very flexible, supporting people of all learning levels. On the last day after our exams, a security company came and did a presentation. We had the opportunity to have an interview afterwards. I told them about my experiences, and they said I would be a good fit. I formally applied for a role and started with the company soon after. Getting into security has opened doors for me. I hope I will continue to take steps up the career ladder.”
“Coming to study at the City of Westminster College was the best decision that I had ever made. The teachers are very accommodating – they help you learn things in a way that might be easier for you to learn. They are very supportive and I think that’s one of the best things about learning here.”
“I was so grateful to have won Apprentice of the Year at the West London Business Awards 2026, I could not have done it without the support my company Size Group and the College of North West London.”
Our dedicated Additional Learning Support team delivers personalised, learner-centred support across every aspect of college life - from in-class and specialist interventions to exam arrangements, assistive technology and wellbeing support.
We understand that finances can be a concern while studying. Our financial support services can help eligible students with travel, meals, equipment and other study-related costs so you can focus on achieving your goals.
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Your wellbeing and success are important to us. Our student support services include careers advice, safeguarding, wellbeing support, learning support and guidance to help you achieve your full potential during your studies.
