Level 2 Barbering - Certificate
E. Quality Training Limited
New Hall Street, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 5HQ
Vocationally-related Qualification (VRQ)
Level 2
Available start dates
Available start dates
Thursday, 01 October 2026
E. Quality Training Limited
1 Year(s)
Full time
Daytime/working hours
Course Summary
This qualification is all about building your skills to become a confident and professional barber. You�ll learn the core techniques of men�s hair cutting, facial hair grooming, and customer consultation�all within a fun, hands-on setting.
Course Details
There are four main units, each covering a vital area of barbering:
Health & Safety in the Salon � keeping you, your clients, and your tools safe and hygienic
Client Consultation for Hair Services � talking to clients to understand their styling needs
Cutting Men�s Hair � mastering barbershop techniques and styles
Cutting Facial Hair � trimming and shaping beards and moustaches to perfection
How will it be delivered and assessed?
Assessment Overview
The qualification is practical and portfolio-based, with continuous assessment rather than a single final exam.
1. Practical Assessments
You will be observed by your assessor carrying out services such as cutting men�s hair, trimming/shaping facial hair, and consulting with clients.
These assessments are completed in a realistic working environment (training salon, often with real clients).
You�ll need to show safe working practices, correct techniques, and professional client care.
2. Assignments & Knowledge Questions
To prove your understanding of theory (e.g. health & safety, consultation methods), you�ll complete written assignments or answer oral/written questions.
Some centres also include short online or paper-based tests.
3. Portfolio of Evidence
All your work�practical assessments, written tasks, photos of client work, and feedback�is collected in a portfolio (paper or digital).
This portfolio must meet VTCT standards and is internally assessed by your tutor and externally verified by VTCT.
Entry requirements
Entry Requirements
No formal qualifications are required.
You should have a genuine interest in barbering and be keen to work in a practical, hands-on environment.
A basic level of English and communication skills is needed so you can follow instructions, complete written tasks, and carry out client consultations.
You must be prepared to work on fellow students and live clients during assessments.
Some centres may invite you for an informal interview or skills assessment to make sure the course is right for you.
Minimum age is usually 16+, although some providers accept younger learners (14�16) as part of school programmes.
Equipment required
We provide the salon space, professional products, and larger equipment. Students are expected to have their own personal barbering kit so they can practise both in class and at home.
Personal Kit (you supply):
Barbering scissors (cutting scissors, thinning scissors)
Clippers with guards (various lengths)
Trimmers/edgers for detailing and outlining
Cut-throat razor / shavette with disposable blades (for facial hair work)
Combs (cutting comb, taper comb, clipper comb, wide-tooth comb)
Barbering brushes (neck brush, styling brushes)
Sectioning clips
Water spray bottle
Training head block with stand/tripod
Uniform / Personal Presentation:
Black tunic or polo with dark trousers and closed-toe shoes (as per centre policy)
Clean, professional appearance (important for assessments)
Salon-Provided Equipment:
Larger salon tools (backwash units, styling chairs, dryers)
Professional products (shampoos, conditioners, styling products)
Towels, gowns, PPE (aprons, gloves, sanitiser)
Your next steps...
Completing this qualification gives you the skills and confidence to move forward in the barbering industry. After achieving your Level 2 Certificate, you can progress in several ways:
Further Study
VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Barbering � to develop advanced cutting, creative styling, and specialist shaving techniques.
Specialist short courses in areas such as pattern work, fades, beard design, or afro-textured hair.
Apprenticeships
Barbering Professional Apprenticeship (Level 2) � combining salon work with further structured training.
Advanced and Creative Barbering Apprenticeship (Level 3) � for those aiming to become senior barbers or specialists.
Employment
Barbering assistant in a barbershop or salon
Freelance/mobile barber (with appropriate insurance and experience)
Barbering assistant, supporting senior staff while continuing to build skills
Opportunities in male grooming lounges or retail-based barbering services
Additional information
For more courses like this, check our courses page.