What Qualifications Do I Need To Open a Hairdressing Academy?

There are many advantages to setting up your own hairdressing academy. You’ll gain full control over what your students learn and the environment they train in. Plus, you’ll have a steady stream of students ready to transition into your salon as professionals. 

And of course, there’s the personal fulfilment you’ll gain as an educator and assessor, teaching students about your passion and helping them to further their career. It’s a whole new direction, but one that will reward you through greater responsibilities and achievements.

Setting up your own hairdressing academy requires planning and qualifications. This step-by-step article offers guidance and advice for how to turn your dream hairdressing academy into a reality.

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What qualifications do I need to open a hairdressing academy?

Level 3 Award in Education & Training (PTLLS) 

The first qualification you’ll need is the Level 3 Award in Education & Training. This is an entry-level qualification which certifies that you are able to teach and train others.

The course is comprised of three mandatory units:

• Understanding the Roles, Responsibilities and Relationships in Education and Training
• Understanding and using inclusive learning and teaching approaches in education and training
• Understanding the principles and practices of assessment

You must be at least 19 years old and  have a good standard of written and spoken English to obtain this qualification.

The PTLLS qualification takes roughly 120 hours to complete. With CTC Training you can take this course at your leisure. Our online learning platform is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Find out more about the Level 3 Award in Education & Training here.

Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement Qualification (CAVA)

The second qualification you’ll need is the Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement. This certifies that you are qualified to evaluate the training and real-life work of your students.

The course is comprised of three mandatory units:

• Understanding the principles and practices of assessment
• Assess vocational skills, knowledge and understanding
• Assess occupational competence in the work environment

There are no specific entry requirements to take these courses, but learners should have a minimum of level two (or equivalent) in literacy and maths.

The CAVA qualification takes roughly 150 hours to complete. You will be required to take an initial assessment before starting the qualification. With CTC Training you can take this course at your leisure. Our online learning platform is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Find out more about the Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement Qualification here.

Level 4 Award in the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice

The third qualification you’ll need is the Level 4 Award in the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice. This certifies that you are qualified to carry out internal quality assurance. This is crucial for maintaining high standards within your academy.

This course is comprised of two mandatory units:

• Understanding the principles and practices of internally assuring the quality of assessment
• Internally assure the quality of assessment

There are no specific entry requirements to take these courses, but learners should have a minimum of level two (or equivalent) in literacy and maths.

This qualification takes roughly 120 hours to complete. You will be required to take an initial assessment before starting the qualification. With CTC Training you can take this course at your leisure. Our online learning platform is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Find out more about the Level 4 Award in the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice here.

Questions and advice for setting up your own hairdressing academy

Who should be my awarding body?

CTC Training works closely with awarding organisation, TQUK, to provide the best possible qualifications. TQUK are one of the leading awarding bodies in the UK and run a range of NVQ qualifications in hair, beauty and barbering.

Where should I open my hairdressing academy?

We recommend choosing a location that is easily accessible from all your current salons. Remember that a hairdressing academy is its own business venture and will require an entirely new premises.

Can I open my academy for external students or is it only for in-house training?

You can choose whether to open your academy to external students or keep it only for in-house training. There are many advantages to opening up your academy to external students, such as attracting a broad range of talent and acquiring a new revenue stream.

What classes can I offer?

The great thing about opening your own academy is that you’re in control of what you teach. You may choose to teach a broad range of skills or focus on a few select specialities.

Can I complete my qualifications online and at my own pace?

All of the necessary qualifications you need to set up your own hairdressing academy can be completed in flexible, online courses provided by CTC Training.

Available nationwide, CTC Training offers a range of distance learning courses that can be completed at your leisure. After signing up to a course, you’ll receive 24/7 access to an online student portal, allowing you to take the courses and upload assessments as quickly or as slowly as you like. You’ll also receive a named tutor who will be available to contact by telephone, email or online chat through the duration of your course.

All our prices are all inclusive, meaning you’ll receive everything you need to obtain your qualification in one affordable sum.

To find out more about CTC Training and start your path to owning your own hairdressing academy, check out our website. Alternatively, get in contact with our team who will be happy to answer any questions.