Level
Level 3
Credits
30
Guided Learning
180
Total Qualification Time
300
Qualification overview
A simple summary of who this qualification is for and what learners can expect.
About this qualification
The Level 3 Certificate in Hair Cutting is an IQ Awards qualification at Level 3. It supports learners in developing knowledge, practical skills and professional behaviours in hair cutting & styling.
The qualification is structured for clear delivery, assessment and quality assurance through approved centres.
Who is it for?
- Learners who are starting out in hair cutting & styling and want to build a strong foundation.
- School leavers, new entrants or early-career learners seeking a recognised vocational qualification.
- Learners who want to progress into further study or employment.
Entry and assessment guidance
Centres should check learner suitability before registration.
Entry requirements
- Entry is at the discretion of the approved centre.
- Learners should normally have a good general education or equivalent experience.
- Learners should have an interest in hair cutting & styling and be able to complete written and practical assessment tasks.
- Centres should confirm that learners have sufficient English language ability for the level of study.
Assessment approach
Assessment may include assignments, projects, practical evidence, workplace evidence, portfolios, presentations or other centre-devised assessment methods approved under IQ Awards quality assurance.
Language requirements
Centres should ensure learners have sufficient language competency to complete learning and assessment.
Qualification units
Jump to any unit below. Each unit opens with its own learning outcomes, criteria and content where available.
Unit 1 of 3
Creative Hair Cutting Techniques
HC812-U01
Learning outcomes
LO1 Understand the principles and professional standards of the unit area. LO2 Prepare tools, products, equipment and working area safely. LO3 Demonstrate practical skills in line with salon or industry standards. LO4 Review client care, hygiene, safety and personal performance.
Assessment criteria
AC1.1 Explain key concepts, tools, products and safe working practices. AC1.2 Describe client consultation and service preparation requirements. AC2.1 Prepare the working area, products and equipment correctly. AC2.2 Follow hygiene, health and safety procedures. AC3.1 Demonstrate the required practical technique safely and professionally. AC3.2 Complete the service to an acceptable industry standard. AC4.1 Evaluate the outcome and identify improvements. AC4.2 Maintain records and aftercare advice where relevant.
Unit aim
The aim of this unit is to develop learners knowledge, practical ability and professional standards in the relevant beauty, hair or salon practice area.
Indicative content
Health and safety, hygiene, client consultation, preparation of tools and equipment, practical service delivery, communication, aftercare, record keeping, professional standards and reflective practice.
Assignment brief
Learners must complete written evidence, practical observation, product/tool preparation records, client consultation evidence where relevant, and a short reflective evaluation for this unit.
Unit 2 of 3
Advanced Blow Drying and Finishing
HC812-U02
Learning outcomes
LO1 Understand the principles and professional standards of the unit area. LO2 Prepare tools, products, equipment and working area safely. LO3 Demonstrate practical skills in line with salon or industry standards. LO4 Review client care, hygiene, safety and personal performance.
Assessment criteria
AC1.1 Explain key concepts, tools, products and safe working practices. AC1.2 Describe client consultation and service preparation requirements. AC2.1 Prepare the working area, products and equipment correctly. AC2.2 Follow hygiene, health and safety procedures. AC3.1 Demonstrate the required practical technique safely and professionally. AC3.2 Complete the service to an acceptable industry standard. AC4.1 Evaluate the outcome and identify improvements. AC4.2 Maintain records and aftercare advice where relevant.
Unit aim
The aim of this unit is to develop learners knowledge, practical ability and professional standards in the relevant beauty, hair or salon practice area.
Indicative content
Health and safety, hygiene, client consultation, preparation of tools and equipment, practical service delivery, communication, aftercare, record keeping, professional standards and reflective practice.
Assignment brief
Learners must complete written evidence, practical observation, product/tool preparation records, client consultation evidence where relevant, and a short reflective evaluation for this unit.
Unit 3 of 3
Client Consultation and Image Planning
HC812-U03
Learning outcomes
LO1 Understand the principles and professional standards of the unit area. LO2 Prepare tools, products, equipment and working area safely. LO3 Demonstrate practical skills in line with salon or industry standards. LO4 Review client care, hygiene, safety and personal performance.
Assessment criteria
AC1.1 Explain key concepts, tools, products and safe working practices. AC1.2 Describe client consultation and service preparation requirements. AC2.1 Prepare the working area, products and equipment correctly. AC2.2 Follow hygiene, health and safety procedures. AC3.1 Demonstrate the required practical technique safely and professionally. AC3.2 Complete the service to an acceptable industry standard. AC4.1 Evaluate the outcome and identify improvements. AC4.2 Maintain records and aftercare advice where relevant.
Unit aim
The aim of this unit is to develop learners knowledge, practical ability and professional standards in the relevant beauty, hair or salon practice area.
Indicative content
Health and safety, hygiene, client consultation, preparation of tools and equipment, practical service delivery, communication, aftercare, record keeping, professional standards and reflective practice.
Assignment brief
Learners must complete written evidence, practical observation, product/tool preparation records, client consultation evidence where relevant, and a short reflective evaluation for this unit.
Progression routes
Typical routes after completing this qualification.
Progression
Progression to Level 4 study, further vocational learning or entry-level employment.
Learning outcomes summary
- LO1 Understand the principles and professional standards of the unit area. LO2 Prepare tools, products, equipment and working area safely. LO3 Demonstrate practical skills in line with salon or industry standards. LO4 Review client care, hygiene, safety and personal performance.