The VTCT Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Hairdressing is an occupational qualification for learners seeking a career as an employed and/or self-employed hairdresser/stylist. This qualification is based on Hairdressing National Occupational Standards (NOS) and is recognised by the UK’s lead hairdressing professional association (The Hairdressing Council) as being fit for purpose for preparing learners for a career as a senior hairdresser/stylist. Learners should hold a Level 2 qualification in hairdressing prior to undertaking this qualification.

This qualification forms part of a suite of hairdressing qualifications. This qualification is of similar size to the VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Women’s Hairdressing. Whilst both qualifications qualify learners to become senior hairdressers/stylists, this qualification requires learners to work in a commercial hairdressing salon whereby assessments must be carried out on real paying clients in line with commercial service times. In contrast, the VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Women’s Hairdressing and VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Hairdressing Studies can be achieved through gathering evidence in a college’s realistic working environment without the necessity for real paying clients.

Hence, the VTCT Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Hairdressing is for learners seeking to work in, and develop their skills in a commercial setting, and can only be delivered by colleges that have, or have access to a ‘real’ salon, and not a realistic working environment.