Hair colouring is one of the most in-demand services in the hair and beauty industry. Clients rely on skilled professionals to transform their look with vibrant, precise, and personalized colour treatments. The ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Colour and Lighten Hair Services offers a comprehensive pathway for learners to develop core competencies in colour application, consultation, and aftercare.
This Ofqual-regulated, internationally recognized, and assignment-based qualification is ideal for aspiring hair professionals or current stylists seeking to specialize in colour services. Whether you’re starting a career in hairdressing or looking to refine your expertise in hair colour techniques, this course equips you with the practical knowledge and professional standards required to succeed.
The ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Colour and Lighten Hair Services is designed to provide learners with a deep understanding of colouring theory and hands-on practice in applying hair colour and lightening treatments safely and effectively. The course aligns with modern salon practices and client expectations, making it a valuable asset for anyone entering or advancing in the hair and beauty industry.
From basic tinting to creative highlighting and balayage, learners will develop technical confidence and the ability to deliver results that meet individual client needs.
The ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Colour and Lighten Hair Services is an essential qualification for anyone looking to master professional hair colouring techniques. Backed by Ofqual regulation and accepted worldwide, it combines practical training, industry standards, and client care expertise into one career-focused program.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to specialize in colour, this course offers everything you need to succeed in a vibrant, creative, and ever-growing industry.
ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Colour and Lighten Hair Services
To achieve this qualification a learner must successfully complete all four mandatory units, totalling 30 credits.
- Advanced Hair Science: Understanding Hair Structure and Growth (Credits: 7)
- Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Hygiene Standards for Hair Professionals (Credits: 6)
- Expert Client Consultation and Personalized Hair Care Services (Credits: 7)
- Innovative Techniques for Colouring and Lightening Hair with Precision (Credits: 12)
GLH (Guided Learning Hours) and TQT (Total Qualification Time) are terms commonly used in vocational qualifications to help define the amount of time a learner is expected to spend on their studies.
1. GLH (Guided Learning Hours)
GLH refers to the number of hours a learner spends being directly taught, supervised, or supported during their course. This includes the time spent in activities such as:
- Classroom instruction
- Practical workshops
- One-on-one tutoring or mentoring sessions
- Online learning sessions with tutor support
In other words, GLH represents the time that learners are actively engaged with their instructors or learning activities.
2. TQT (Total Qualification Time)
TQT represents the total amount of time a learner is expected to invest in completing a qualification, including:
- GLH (Guided Learning Hours): Time spent on direct learning, as explained above.
- Self-Directed Learning: This includes time spent on independent study, research, assignment completion, preparation for exams, and any other work the learner does outside of direct teaching hours.
TQT is a broader measure that includes all the time required to achieve the qualification. It helps learners and employers understand the overall commitment required for the qualification.
Key Differences Between GLH and TQT:
- GLH focuses on direct learning with guidance or supervision.
- TQT includes GLH as well as independent study time and other learning-related activities.
Example:
If a qualification has a TQT of 600 hours and a GLH of 250 hours, it means the learner should spend 250 hours in direct learning (classroom, online, or tutor-led sessions) and 350 hours on independent study or research.
Learning Outcomes fo the ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Colour and Lighten Hair Services:
Advanced Hair Science: Understanding Hair Structure and Growth
- Understand the biological structure of hair, including the hair follicle, shaft, and growth cycle.
- Identify factors that affect hair growth, including genetics, diet, and health conditions.
- Analyze the impact of various treatments and products on hair structure and health.
- Utilize knowledge of hair science to recommend appropriate hair care and treatments.
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Hygiene Standards for Hair Professionals
- Implement advanced health, safety, and hygiene practices to maintain a safe salon environment.
- Comply with industry regulations for sanitizing tools, workspaces, and equipment.
- Recognize and manage potential health risks for both clients and professionals.
- Promote client well-being through effective hair care practices and hygiene protocols.
Expert Client Consultation and Personalized Hair Care Services
- Conduct thorough consultations to assess client needs, hair type, and desired outcomes.
- Customize hair care recommendations based on individual hair conditions and preferences.
- Build strong client relationships through effective communication and tailored services.
- Offer professional advice on hair maintenance, aftercare, and suitable products.
Innovative Techniques for Colouring and Lightening Hair with Precision
- Master advanced colouring techniques, including balayage, ombré, and precision highlights.
- Safely and effectively lighten hair while maintaining hair integrity and health.
- Utilize the latest products and technologies to achieve vibrant, long-lasting colour results.
- Personalize colour services to suit client preferences, skin tone, and hair type.
Benefits of the ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Colour and Lighten Hair Services:
1. Ofqual-Regulated and Internationally Recognized
This qualification is officially regulated by Ofqual (UK), ensuring it meets national education and industry standards. It is widely accepted by employers across the UK and globally, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.
2. 100% Assignment-Based – No Exams
The course is entirely assessed through practical tasks and portfolio work, making it ideal for learners who prefer hands-on, real-world training without the pressure of formal written exams.
3. In-Demand Professional Colouring Skills
You’ll develop essential technical skills in colouring and lightening hair, including highlights, root touch-ups, balayage, and toning—services that are highly sought after in modern salons.
4. Enhances Client Consultation and Care
Beyond technique, the course also trains you in client consultation, hair analysis, and aftercare product recommendations, helping you build strong relationships and trust with clients.
5. Career Progression Opportunities
This course is a solid foundation for progressing to the ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Hairdressing, or for specialising in advanced colour correction or creative colouring techniques.
6. Flexible Study Options
Designed with modern learners in mind, the course can be completed alongside other commitments, making it accessible for full-time workers, part-time learners, and career changers.
7. Supports Freelance and Salon Work
Whether you aim to work in a high-street salon, as a freelance colour technician, or in mobile hair services, this qualification equips you with the skills and professionalism to succeed.
8. Builds Confidence and Practical Expertise
You’ll gain confidence in delivering colour services independently, using industry-standard tools and products in a safe and client-focused environment.
9. No Prior Experience Required
Open to beginners, this course is ideal for anyone looking to break into the hair industry or expand their service offerings with specialised colour training.
Who Is This Course Best Suited For?
The ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Colour and Lighten Hair Services is an ideal qualification for individuals eager to specialize in hair colouring techniques. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to build on existing skills, this course is designed for various learners. It is best suited for:
- Aspiring Hair Colour Technicians
Ideal for those looking to break into the hair and beauty industry with a focus on colouring and lightening services. - Salon Assistants and Junior Stylists
Perfect for individuals already working in a salon setting who want to expand their expertise in hair colouring and lightening. - Freelance and Mobile Stylists
This course is excellent for professionals aiming to offer hair colouring services independently, either through freelance work or a mobile service. - Beauty and Hair Professionals
Existing hairdressers or beauty therapists who want to add hair colouring to their service offerings and advance their career. - Career Changers
Perfect for individuals looking to switch careers and enter the dynamic, creative world of hairdressing, even with no prior experience. - Adult Learners and Returners
Those returning to education or switching industries will benefit from this flexible, hands-on course designed to fit various learning schedules.
This course is tailored to anyone eager to master professional hair colouring techniques and pursue a rewarding career in the hairdressing industry.
Entry Requirements
Register Now
Qualification Process
Qualification Process for the ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Colour and Lighten Hair Services
- Self-Assessment:
Begin by evaluating your eligibility to ensure you meet the qualification requirements, including work experience, knowledge, and language proficiency. - Registration:
Complete your registration by submitting the required documents, including a scanned copy of a valid ID, and paying the registration fee. - Induction:
An assessor will conduct an induction to confirm your eligibility for the course and explain the evidence requirements. If you do not meet the criteria, your registration will be canceled, and the fee will be refunded. - Assignmnets & Evidence Submission:
Provide all assignmnets and the necessary evidence based on the assessment criteria outlined in the course. If you are unsure of the required evidence, consult with the assessor for guidance on the type and nature of evidence needed. - Feedback and Revision:
The assessor will review your submitted evidence and provide feedback. Evidence that meets the criteria will be marked as “Criteria Met,” while any gaps will be identified. You will be asked to revise and resubmit if needed. - Competence Evidence:
Submit final evidence demonstrating that all learning outcomes have been met. This evidence will be marked as “Criteria Met” by the assessor once it is satisfactory. - Internal Quality Assurance (IQA):
The Internal Quality Assurance Verifier (IQA) will review your evidence to ensure consistency, quality, and compliance with standards. - External Verification:
The IQA will submit your portfolio to ICTQUAL AB External Quality Assurance Verifiers (EQA) for final confirmation. The EQA may contact you directly to verify the authenticity of your evidence. - Certification:
Upon successful completion of all checks, ICTQUAL AB will issue your official certificate, confirming that you have attained the ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Colour and Lighten Hair Services.
