Level
Level 4
Credits
120
Guided Learning
720
Total Qualification Time
1200
Qualification overview
A simple summary of who this qualification is for and what learners can expect.
About this qualification
The Level 4 Advanced Diploma in Hair Styling is an IQ Awards qualification at Level 4. 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 with prior study, training or work experience who want to develop specialist knowledge.
- Professionals seeking career progression or a recognised route into higher-level study.
- Centres delivering practical, work-related learning for local or international learners.
Entry and assessment guidance
Centres should check learner suitability before registration.
Entry requirements
- Entry is at the discretion of the approved centre.
- Learners will normally hold a qualification at the previous level or have relevant work experience.
- Learners should be able to research, analyse and apply concepts within hair cutting & styling.
- Centres should confirm that learners have sufficient English language ability for higher-level 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 6
Master Hair Styling Techniques
HC816-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 6
Creative Cutting and Fashion Styling
HC816-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 6
Advanced Hair Colour and Correction Practice
HC816-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.
Unit 4 of 6
Bridal and Occasion Hair Styling
HC816-U04
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 5 of 6
Professional Consultation and Client Experience
HC816-U05
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 6 of 6
Advanced Hair Styling Portfolio
HC816-U06
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 5 diploma/HND-level study or employment with increased responsibility.
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.