Study at PSC

T Levels are new qualifications which commenced in September 2020 - they follow GCSEs and are equivalent to three A Levels. T Levels are a revolution in vocational and technical study, bringing a new high-quality, work-focused alternative to A Levels for 16–18 year-olds. These two-year courses combine classroom theory, practical learning and an industry placement with an employer to ensure students have real experience of the workplace. They have been developed in collaboration with employers and businesses so that the content will meet the needs of the industry and prepare students for work.

The T Levels in Hairdressing, Barbering and Beauty Therapy will be available from September 2024. During the programme, students will learn the core knowledge and skills that are needed for entry to a range of hairdressing, barbering and beauty therapy occupations or for entry to higher-level study. UCAS points are awarded.

We are offering individual qualifications in the following: Hairdressing, Barbering and Beauty Therapy. T levels consist of the following components:

• An approved T level Technical Qualification (TQ), that provides technical knowledge and practical skills specific to a student’s chosen industry or occupation
• ‘On-the-job’ experience during an industry placement of at least 315 hours (approximately 45 days)
• A minimum standard in maths and English if students haven’t already achieved them
• Transferrable workplace skills

Students will develop an understanding of a broad range of issues relevant to the sector, including:

• Business context, including how the sector operates
• Health and safety regulations
• Safe working practices
• An understanding of the client journey
• Client consultation
• Sales and marketing
• Business practices
• Self-development

In addition to the core content, each student will also complete at least one module of occupation-specific content. The specialisms are Hairdressing, Barbering and Beauty Therapy.

You will have taught sessions at College for part of the week, as well as spending a number of days in your industry placement. Theory classes will take place at the Owens Road Campus and practical content will be taught in our training salons on the Stoney Lane Campus (approximately 15-minute walk from Owens Road). More specific timetabling information will be given closer to the start of the course, but it is anticipated that students will be in placement for two days a week. Lessons may include lectures, group work, guest speakers and practical work.

In the first year, there are two written examinations based on the Core Knowledge, and an employer set project. You will receive support from your college tutors to complete the employer set project. In the second year, you will choose your occupational specialism. The assessments for occupational specialism are written exams and observations of your practice in your industry placement.

Throughout the duration of study, a college assessor will also visit you in the workplace to observe your practice and obtain feedback regarding your progress in placement

This qualification supports progression into skilled work within the hair and beauty industry. This could be as a barber, hairdresser, beauty therapist or make-up artist. You could work in a variety of settings, including salons, cruise ships or from home.

The course also supports entry to higher or degree level apprenticeships or higher-level technical study, including university. Our Adult & Higher Education Division offer a number of Level 4 qualifications, which students may want to progress to – these include Advanced Beauty Therapy and Advanced Techniques and Management Practice in Hairdressing.

Although we endeavour to place you in a setting close to your home, there may be additional travel costs to and from your placement. Students will need to purchase a uniform ( approx £98.50) and a kit according to their chosen specialism (Beauty approx £350, Hairdressing approx  £155, Barbering approx £180). Please note that these costs may be subject to change – contact the Hair and Beauty department with any queries regarding these fees. The College has a Student Support Fund for those students who might have difficulty meeting these costs.

Two days a week in an industry placement.