The entry qualifications for the Level 3 Hairdressing Diploma are either a Level 2 qualification or equivalent.

All candidates will require an interview and possibly a trade test with production of an assignment. Attendance (Minimum 90%), acceptable behaviour/attitude, ability to progress, ability to meet deadlines, satisfactory reports from all tutors will be taken into consideration. Proof of prior qualifications will be required.

The Hairdressing Diploma will take you one year to complete. You will attend College for a minimum of four days a week.

The minimum course attendance requirement set by the college is 92%

The Hairdressing Diploma is free, if you are under the age of 19 on 31 August of the year you start the course.

If you are aged 19+, this course will cost £3345.
If you are aged 19-23, fee remission may apply depending on personal circumstances, please enquire with the Registry Department for further information on 01205 365701 or email your query to fees@boston.ac.uk.

Aged 19+?
If you are aged 19 years or over on the 1st day of your course, you may qualify for an Advanced Learner Loan to help with your College fees. If you progress to employment you won't have to pay anything back until you’re earning £25,000 per year. Your household income isn't taken into account and there's no credit check. Your eligibility depends on your course, nationality, and age. To find out more contact the College Information Line on 01205 313218.

Fees may vary depending on personal circumstances, please enquire for further information.

Please note that all fees are subject to change.

Those who successfully achieve this qualification are eligible to become a State Registered Hairdresser (SRH) with The Hair Council. As a senior hairdresser/stylist, you could progress directly into employment in a variety of contexts, which include:

• Commercial Salons
• Specialist African Type Hair Salons
• Independent/Self-Employed/Mobile/Home-Based Settings
• Television, Film, Theatre and Media
• Armed Services
• HM Prison Service
• Cruise Liners
• Hospitals/Care Homes

Whilst the primary purpose of this qualification is to prepare you for employment, you may choose to develop your knowledge and skills further by completing a specialist qualification at Level 4 in one or more of the following areas:

• Salon Management
• Hair Colour Correction
• Specialist Hair and Scalp Services
• Advanced Hair Styling

Additional costs include purchasing a basic hairdressing equipment kit (£100 approx.) which will include everything you need for practical lessons.

Tunic overalls are compulsory, you will be provided with an order form during induction (£26 approx.).

Long haired block head (£30 approx.).

A suitable text book must be purchased to assist with the theoretical aspects of the course (£25.00 approx.).

You will need lever arch A4 folders, dividers, plastic wallets and general stationery.

There are a number of educational visits arranged which you are encouraged to attend at a minimal cost, usually around £25.00 each trip.

A number of short courses are also arranged for you on this course and often a small fee is charged (these are optional extras).

Due to participating in a competition, photoshoot and hair show you will be required to purchase/provide accessories, and outfits for these occasions.

There may be an opportunity to complete an Industry Placement alongside your main Level 3 course.

Industry placements give you the chance to put into practice what you have learned and you will have the opportunity to spend an average of 50 days working for an employer, in a role directly relevant to your course.

With an Industry Placement you will gain technical skills, be prepared for the world of work, and gain connections in order to secure a job after your course.

What will I gain?

• Build your confidence, self-reliance and independence in the workplace.
• Enhance the learning from your college course.
• Develop your experience and expand your CV.
• Give yourself a head start in knowing what type of job you may want to go into after finishing your course.
• May lead to further opportunities such as paid employment or an apprenticeship on completion of your course.
• Take a step forward professionally, knowing the behaviours expected in the workplace.

What will I do?

• You will take part in an average of 50 days placement in a role that is directly relevant to your course, in an external organisation.
• You will develop the practical and technical skills required for your profession/trade.
• You will develop employability skills such as communication, teamwork and time management.

An existing part time job may qualify as an Industry Placement if it meets the criteria set by the College.

For more information regarding Industry Placements please contact the Enterprise Zone: enterprise@boston.ac.uk or call 01205 365701 ext: 3226/3227