Level 3 Advanced and Creative Hair Professional Apprenticeship

The standard on-programme duration is 8 months, 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 delivered remotely through a blend of live online sessions, structured learning activities, workplace application, and regular support from an experienced tutor.

Delivery includes:

• Live online training sessions
• Structured off-the-job training
• Professional discussions
• Portfolio development support
• One-to-one progress reviews and coaching

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 apprentices to complete their off-the-job 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

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.

Yes — this hairdressing apprenticeship includes more than just the core qualification. Apprentices benefit from added-value training, professional recognition, and accredited CPD courses designed to support career progression and workplace readiness.

Professional Membership – Hair Council

Apprentices can access trainee membership with the Hair Council, helping them build their professional profile and demonstrate commitment to professional hairdressing standards in the UK.

Membership supports apprentices to:

• Build their professional identity within the hairdressing industry

• Access industry guidance, updates, and best practice

• Understand the importance of professional registration

• Demonstrate commitment to recognised industry standards

Accredited CPD – Health & Safety (Hairdressing Apprenticeship)

As part of the programme, apprentices complete CPD-accredited training, including COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health), with additional courses such as Health & Safety and Fire Warden training where applicable.

This CPD training helps apprentices to:

• Work safely and confidently in a salon environment

• Understand UK health and safety regulations

• Safely handle, store, and dispose of hazardous substances

• Support compliant and professional salon practices

These added-value benefits provide recognised certification alongside the hairdressing apprenticeship, improve employability, and support progression into advanced hairdressing training and specialist roles.

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