Barbering | Level 2
Why this course?

This course is for those who wish to pursue a career as an employed or self-employed barber. You will be introduced to a wide range of practical barbering techniques and have the opportunity to develop your skills in customer service, communications and commerciality; all of which are highly valued by employers.
Our brand new salon facilities provide an ideal environment to gain the skills, confidence and real-life experience that you need for a career in barbering.
On this course, you will:
- develop transferable service industry skills
- train in brand new salon facilities
- gain practical experience in a realistic commercial environment
- access dedicated careers support with the opportunity to progress on to a higher level service industry course
Start dates
Start | |
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September 2023 | Apply |
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Staff Profiles
Entry requirements
Age 16-18
Start at Level 2 if you have a minimum of 3 GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English, Maths, Science or P.E.
If you do not have the above grades, you may be able to start on Level 1 Hairdressing & Barbering course. (check entry requirement for this course)
In addition to the specified entry requirements, you may be required to undergo an assessment of your English skills to ensure you are at a sufficient level for your chosen course.

Course content
- Client consultation for hair services
- Follow health and safety practice in the salon
- Shampoo and condition the hair and scalp
- Promote products and services to clients in a salon
- Cut facial hair
- Cut men's hair
- Plus, additional units
Why the MET?
The course provides real-world training in our brand-new salons at Central Brighton Campus (opened in 2021 as part of our multi-million-pound development), providing you with the hands-on experience you need to launch successful careers. In addition, you will use high-quality professional kits and products in professional salons with paying customers.
Our highly skilled teachers have current industry experience, and the department has strong industry and employer links.
Throughout the course you will benefit from guest speakers and additional training from external companies.
Without a doubt, one of the reasons we know you will love studying at Brighton MET is the location of our central campus. Right in the heart of Brighton’s world-famous North Laine, the College is within walking distance of all the city’s main amenities – the award-winning city library, the independent shops and eateries and the beach.
Facilities
- Brand new training salons and a commercial salon open to the public
- High-end industry standard equipment and products
- Access to the MET’s student services, including career advice and additional learning support
- Cafés with a wide range of reasonably priced meals, snacks and drinks

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Assessment
- Service portfolio
- Summative practical assessments
- Assignments and tasks
- External examinations
Work experience
You will work commercially in our Metro Hair and Beauty Salon.
We have very strong links with local employers, many of whom started their own careers at Brighton MET.
All of our students have an opportunity to undertake work experience, which often leads to gaining a permanent position within that company.
We hold an annual careers day where local, national and international employers will come and give seminars. This will give you valuable information and advice about progression opportunities and setting up your own business.
We also hold training days, trips to trade shows and have guest speakers to keep all of your training and knowledge current and up-to-date.
What's next?
After Level 2, you could choose to develop your knowledge and skills further by completing a Level 2 or Level 3 specialist qualification, such as media hair & makeup, or part-time courses in hair extensions, creative hair design or African Caribbean hair. Alternatively you could undertake a barbering apprenticeship, or seek employment.
Future careers include:
- Barber
- Fashion hairstyling
- Media hairstyling
Course fees and finance
This course is free (you do not have to pay fees) if:
- You are a UK citizen, hold EU Settlement Status or have a visa which could qualify you for home status.
- AND you are under 19 on 31 August in the year you are studying
Subsidised fees
If the above does not apply to you, you may still be eligible for a subsidised fee. For more information, please speak to our Admissions team: admissions@gbmc.ac.uk | 01273 667704
You will be required to purchase additional kit for this course:
- Kit and uniform: approximately £400 (TBC)
- External trip to trade show: £20 approx.
- Portfolio/stationery: £5 approx.
Unemployed/Benefit Waiver
This course is also free if you meet the following criteria:
- You may not have to pay any fees if you will be aged 19 or over when you begin this course and:
- You are a UK citizen, hold EU Settlement Status or have a visa which could qualify you for home status.
AND
- You are in receipt of Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) or Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- OR you are receiving a means tested benefit, earning less than £617 per month (take home) if you are a sole claimant or £988 a month if you have a joint claim with your partner, and are completing the course to improve your employability
- OR if you are working and earn less than £20,319 per year (gross pay)
You will need to provide evidence and sign a declaration when you enrol.