The hairdressing profession is more than a creative outlet — it’s a skill-based trade that demands precision, client communication, and professional technique. The ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Cut and Finish Hair Services offers a direct path into the industry, delivering the practical training and foundational knowledge needed to perform expert haircuts and finishing services in a professional setting.
This Ofqual-regulated, globally recognized qualification is ideal for aspiring hair professionals or those already working in salons who want to sharpen their cutting and finishing skills. With a 100% assignment-based assessment structure, learners gain hands-on experience without the pressure of formal exams.
The ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Cut and Finish Hair Services is designed to equip learners with the essential skills and techniques required to cut, shape, and style hair confidently and competently. From client consultations to executing modern and classic haircuts, this course prepares learners for real-world salon environments and client-facing roles.
Whether you’re starting your hairdressing career or enhancing your existing skills, this course offers a solid foundation to progress further within the industry or specialize in advanced techniques later.
This course is officially recognized in the UK and internationally, assuring quality and increasing your credibility with employers and clients alike.Learners are assessed through practical tasks and portfolio evidence, making this an accessible and flexible route for learners who thrive in hands-on environments.
The ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Cut and Finish Hair Services is a practical, industry-recognized qualification that provides learners with the skills and confidence to deliver professional haircuts and styling services. With its Ofqual-regulated status, international recognition, and assignment-based structure, it offers a flexible and career-focused learning experience for both newcomers and experienced salon professionals. Whether you’re beginning your journey in hairdressing or looking to sharpen your expertise, this course is the ideal stepping stone toward a successful and rewarding career in the hair and beauty industry.
ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Cut and Finish Hair Services
To achieve this qualification a learner must successfully complete 30 credits, all 4 mandatory units:
- Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Hygiene Standards for Hair Professionals (Credits: 6)
- Effective Client Consultation for Tailored Hair Services (Credits: 7)
- Precision Hair Cutting Techniques for Versatile Styles (Credits: 11)
- Advanced Blow-Drying and Finishing Methods for Polished Results (Credits: 6)
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 Cut and Finish Hair Services:
Comprehensive Health, Safety, and Hygiene Standards for Hair Professionals
- Maintain advanced health, safety, and hygiene standards in salon environments.
- Identify and mitigate risks to ensure client and staff safety.
- Perform effective cleaning, sanitization, and disinfection of tools and workstations.
- Comply with legal and professional regulations in hairdressing practices.
Effective Client Consultation for Tailored Hair Services
- Conduct comprehensive consultations to assess client needs and hair characteristics.
- Utilize effective communication to build trust and rapport with clients.
- Develop personalized hair care and styling plans based on client preferences.
- Provide expert aftercare advice and recommend appropriate products or treatments.
Precision Hair Cutting Techniques for Versatile Styles
- Execute advanced cutting techniques for a variety of hairstyles.
- Adapt cutting methods to suit diverse hair types, face shapes, and client requests.
- Use precision tools to achieve clean, balanced, and professional results.
- Refine and perfect cuts to ensure long-lasting styles and client satisfaction.
Advanced Blow-Drying and Finishing Methods for Polished Results
- Apply advanced blow-drying techniques to achieve smooth, textured, or voluminous finishes.
- Use professional finishing methods to enhance the overall style and durability.
- Tailor blow-drying and finishing techniques to complement individual styles.
- Employ high-quality tools and products for polished and flawless results.
Benefits of the ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Cut and Finish Hair Services
1. Ofqual-Regulated and Professionally Recognized
This course is officially regulated by Ofqual (UK government), ensuring that the qualification meets strict educational and industry standards. It is widely recognized across the UK and internationally, enhancing your professional credibility.
2. 100% Assignment-Based Assessment
There are no written exams in this course. All assessments are practical and portfolio-based, making it ideal for hands-on learners and working professionals who prefer flexible, real-world evaluation.
3. Job-Ready Practical Skills
Learners acquire essential cutting and finishing techniques that can be immediately applied in professional salon settings. From scissor control to blow-drying and styling, the course prepares you to confidently work with clients.
4. Globally Accepted Qualification
Whether you plan to work locally or internationally, this certificate is a trusted credential that opens doors in the global hair and beauty industry.
5. Career Advancement Opportunities
This Level 2 qualification lays the groundwork for further professional development, including progression to the ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Hairdressing or specialist courses in creative cutting and advanced styling.
6. Client Communication and Consultation Skills
In addition to technical expertise, the course teaches you how to conduct effective client consultations, manage expectations, and provide aftercare advice — key soft skills that enhance client satisfaction and retention.
7. Flexible Learning Structure
Designed to suit both full-time students and part-time learners, the course offers flexible delivery options to accommodate work, family, or other commitments.
8. Boosts Employability
This qualification is highly valued by salons, spas, and freelance employers. It demonstrates your ability to deliver high-quality services and increases your chances of securing employment or growing a personal business.
9. Supports Freelance and Entrepreneurial Paths
For those looking to become self-employed or run a mobile hairdressing business, this course provides the core skills and professional knowledge to operate with confidence and competence.
Who Is This Course Best Suited For?
The ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Cut and Finish Hair Services is designed for individuals who are eager to develop practical, professional skills in hairdressing, particularly in cutting and finishing techniques. This course is best suited for:
Aspiring Hairdressers
If you’re new to the hair and beauty industry and want to start a career as a hair stylist, this course provides the essential foundation in cutting and styling needed to work confidently in a salon or freelance environment.
Salon Assistants and Junior Stylists
For those already working in a salon as an assistant or trainee, this qualification helps formalize your skills, deepen your knowledge, and prepare you for more advanced roles.
Career Changers
Individuals seeking a creative and rewarding career shift will benefit from this practical, hands-on course. It offers a clear and accessible route into the hairdressing profession without prior experience.
Beauty and Makeup Professionals
Professionals already working in makeup, aesthetics, or beauty therapy who want to expand their service offerings to include hair cutting and styling will find this qualification highly valuable.
Freelancers and Entrepreneurs
If you aim to work as a freelance hair stylist or run a mobile hairdressing business, this course gives you the professional skills and industry-recognized certification needed to serve clients confidently and grow your brand.
Learners Seeking Flexible, Practical Education
The course is ideal for those who prefer hands-on learning with real-world application. With a 100% assignment-based format and no written exams, it supports various learning styles and life schedules.
This course is perfect for anyone looking to build a professional career in hairdressing with a focus on cutting and finishing services. Whether you’re starting from scratch or enhancing your existing skills, the ICTQual Level 2 Certificate offers the practical training and recognized credentials to help you succeed.
Entry Requirements
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Qualification Process
Qualification Process for the ICTQual Level 2 Certificate in Cut and Finish 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 Cut and Finish Hair Services.
