Hair and Beauty
Barbering Level 3 - Fast Track (SCQF Level 6)
Campus Granton Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 6
Study mode Full time
Start date
Aug 2026
Course enquiry form
Course overview
Barbering Level 3 is an innovative 18-week course designed to enhance your skill base gained at Level 2 Barbering /Preparation to Level 3 Barbering, or through the work you have already carried out in your barbering shop. With a more advanced skill set, this course will help you develop your passion for barbering.
During this fast-track course, you will gain essential practical experience working with clients in our professional Barbershop, where you will be provided with up-to-date training in new technology and techniques using high-end professional products such as Wella, Osmo and American Crew to enhance your employability prospects further.
Theory classes will cover the knowledge required to complete all written work and e-assessments. You will need access to IT to complete parts of the course, e.g., a laptop, PC, iPhone, Android phone, Tablet, or iPad.
Training at Edinburgh College will enhance your employability prospects, as we offer exceptional facilities and highly qualified lecturers. You will receive up-to-date training on innovations and techniques from leading product manufacturers and barbers.
Edinburgh College is not only a recognised Centre of Excellence by Wella, but also houses the Wella Training Studio for Scotland. This amazing collaboration ensures that students receive the most up-to-date training in industry innovations and techniques.
This award is recognised within the industry as qualifying you as a Barber.
Please note:
- There is an additional cost for course kits, uniforms and books, which must be purchased before starting the course
- Students will also be expected to bring in clients for practice and assessment purposes
What you will learn
- Consultation Services
- Health and Safety
- Creatively Cut and Clip Hair Using a Combination of Barbering Techniques
- Design and Create Facial Hair Shapes
- Provide Shaving Services
- Creative Barbering Skills
- Planning Promotional Activities
- Financial Effectiveness of the Business
Placement information
- All students must have a work placement in place at the beginning of the course or employment in the Barbering industry - two days per week (9 AM to 4 PM) for the full 18 weeks. This is a mandatory aspect of the course.
How the course is assessed
- All practical assessments are carried out on paying clients within our salons, working either independently with your clients or as a team member.
- You must bring in models for practical assessments.
- The theoretical aspects of the course are carried out under exam conditions, completing open-book assignments.
- Invigilated closed-book exams.
Number of days per week
- 1 day per week, 9 AM to 4 PM
- 2-day work placement - this is a mandatory aspect of the course
Entry requirements
- All applicants must hold a Level 2 Barbering or equivalent.
- Must be currently working in the Barbering industry.
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
Applicants will be given a date to attend an information/interview, which will involve:
- Group Information session with Q & As
- Face-to-face interview –where you will be asked relevant questions relating to the course, your goals, and experience
- Skills Test to ensure you have the correct dexterity skills for the course (please see details below)
In exceptional cases, the interview may be conducted via Microsoft Teams or by telephone, during which you will be asked relevant questions about the course, your goals, and your experience.
The formal interview has a scoring criterion based on communication skills at the interview, along with the skills test.
Skills Test
- A skills/trade test will be required on a mannequin head or client at a commercially viable time.
- The formal interview has a scoring criterion based on communication skills at the interview, along with the skills test
Hair and Beauty Applicant Privacy Notice
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 5.5Progression and Articulation Routes
- Opportunity to gain employment within the Barbering industry at a technical and/or supervisory level
Career options
- Employment within the Barbering industry at a technical and/or supervisory level
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Granton Campus | Full time | 24/08/26 |
