Level 3 Advanced and Creative Hair Professional Apprenticeship

The standard on-programme duration is 15 months, followed by a 3-month End-Point Assessment (EPA) period.

A fast-track route of 8 months (plus 3 months EPA) may be available, subject to prior learning, experience and employer agreement in line with apprenticeship funding rules.

An Advanced and Creative Hair Professional works independently and may also supervise junior team members within the salon.

They are responsible for delivering complex and creative hair services while maintaining high standards of client care, safety and professionalism.

Responsibilities typically include:

• Conducting in-depth client consultations
• Designing and delivering advanced cutting and colouring techniques
• Performing colour correction and creative styling services
• Maintaining strict hygiene and health and safety standards
• Providing expert product knowledge and retail recommendations
• Supporting junior team members and contributing to team development
• Contributing to the commercial performance of the salon

Advanced hair professionals combine technical precision, creativity, trend awareness and strong client relationship management.

Yes. Levy and non-levy employer funding is available.

Employers can use apprenticeship funding to cover the cost of training and assessment, subject to eligibility and apprenticeship funding rules

The programme is workplace-based with face-to-face learning support in a dedicated academy environment.

Delivery includes:

• Workplace-based learning
• Structured off-the-job training
• Advanced practical workshops
• Professional discussions
• Portfolio development support

Apprentices must complete their required off-the-job training hours in line with apprenticeship funding requirements.

Employers must provide protected time during working hours for this training.

Before entering End-Point Assessment, apprentices must:

• Achieve Level 2 English and Maths (if required)
• Achieve the mandated qualification: Level 3 Diploma in Advanced and Creative Hairdressing
• Complete their on-programme portfolio
• Complete a minimum of 348 off-the-job training hours
• Be confirmed as occupationally competent by their employe

The End-Point Assessment is conducted by an independent End-Point Assessment Organisation.

It typically includes:

• Practical observation
• Knowledge test
• Professional discussion

Successful completion leads to achievement of the full apprenticeship standard.

To enrol, apprentices must:

• Be employed within a professional hairdressing salon
• Hold Level 2 Hairdressing Professional (or equivalent)
• Demonstrate commitment to developing advanced technical skills
• Be motivated to progress to senior stylist level

Employers must provide suitable opportunities for apprentices to practise the full range of advanced and creative services required by the apprenticeship standard.

On successful completion, apprentices may progress to:

• Level 3 Hair, Wigs and Make-up Prosthetics Technician
• Level 3 Customer Service Specialist
• Level 3 Team Leader

Career opportunities may include:

• Senior Stylist
• Creative Stylist
• Creative Colour Specialist
• Session Stylist
• Bridal or Occasion Hair Specialist
• Salon Supervisor
• Salon Manager
• Brand Educator
• Self-employed or Business Owner

This Level 3 qualification provides a strong foundation for leadership roles, specialist expertise and advanced creative career pathways within the hair industry.

In addition to achieving the full apprenticeship standard, apprentices benefit from added-value training designed to strengthen professional credibility and workplace readiness.

Professional Membership – Trainee Membership with the Hair Council

Apprentices are supported to access trainee membership with the Hair Council, helping them begin building their professional identity within the hair industry.

Membership supports apprentices to:

• Demonstrate commitment to professional hairdressing standards
• Begin building their professional profile
• Access industry guidance and updates
• Understand the importance of professional recognition and registration

In addition to achieving the full apprenticeship standard, apprentices benefit from added-value opportunities designed to strengthen professional credibility and workplace readiness.

Professional Membership – Trainee Membership with the Hair Council

Apprentices are supported to access trainee membership with the Hair Council, helping them build their professional identity within the hair industry.

Membership supports apprentices to:

• Demonstrate commitment to recognised professional hairdressing standards
• Begin building their professional profile within the industry
• Access industry guidance and professional updates
• Understand the pathway towards State Registered Hairdresser (SRH) status

Apprentices also complete an independently CPD-accredited Health and Safety course, designed to support safe and compliant working practices within salon environments.

The course:

• Aligns with current UK health and safety legislation
• Promotes safe working practices in hairdressing settings
• Strengthens workplace risk awareness and compliance
• Supports apprentices in maintaining professional salon standards

This additional training enhances workplace safety awareness and employer compliance.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all learners. Apprentices receive ongoing pastoral, academic and professional support throughout their programme.