alternative nvq level 2 barbering course manchester
By Barbering Academy Manchester
Alternative NVQ Level 2 Barbering Course
Training Course Information Guide
Location: Manchester, UK
Welcome to the Next Step in Your Barbering Career
Congratulations on completing your beginner training or on bringing your existing experience to the next level. Our Alternative NVQ Level 2 Barbering Course in Manchester is a hands-on, professionally guided program designed for those who are ready to deepen their skills and increase their opportunities in the barbering industry.
Whether you want to become a fully qualified barber, launch your freelance business, or secure employment in a top shop, this course provides the knowledge, techniques, and confidence to get you there.
Course Overview
Course Title: Alternative NVQ Level 2 Barbering
Location: Manchester Area
Duration: 10 Days
Level: Intermediate / NVQ Level 2 Equivalent
Delivery: In-Person Workshops, Real-Client Sessions
Assessment: Practical Evaluations, Oral Q&A, Tutor Observations
Certification: Certificate of Completion (Mapped to NVQ Level 2 Standards)
Entry Requirements: None
Age Requirement: 16+
Cost: Check home page for latest pricing
Why Choose This Course?
✓ Real-World Learning
Experience life behind the chair with supervised sessions on real clients in a live studio environment.
✓ Expert Mentors
Train with senior barbers who work in the industry and offer mentorship and feedback.
✓ Career-Focused
Develop job-ready skills that meet salon and barbershop standards and expectations.
✓ Inclusive & Empowering
We focus on building confidence, independence, and your unique barbering identity.
✓ Step Toward Full Qualification
This course bridges the gap to a formal NVQ Level 3 or opens doors to employment.
Course Aims & Objectives
By the end of this course, learners will:
Master core cutting and fading techniques for a range of hair types
Understand advanced hygiene, sanitation, and health & safety procedures
Learn to design and execute detailed styles with precision
Deliver exceptional client service and consultation
Build a strong professional portfolio
Gain confidence in working under pressure in a shop environment
Course Modules
Module 1: Professionalism & Barbering Culture (Day 1)
Career Paths in Barbering
Professional Conduct and Image
Barbering Trends & Influences
Introduction to Level 2 Standards
Module 2: Tools, Equipment & Advanced Hygiene (Day 1)
Clipper Maintenance & Blade Selection
Disinfection Protocols
PPE & Cross-Infection Prevention
Deep Cleaning Routines
Module 3: Client Consultation & Communication (Day 1)
Client Needs Analysis
Understanding Face Shapes and Hair Types
Handling Complaints Professionally
Upselling Services & Products
Module 4: Advanced Clipper Work (Day 2-10)
Skin Fades and Bald Fades
Clipper Fading & Tapering Techniques
Creating Clean Lines and Edges
Blend Transitions and Beard Merges
Module 5: Scissor Techniques & Creative Cutting (Day 3-10)
Freehand Cutting
Scissor Over Comb
Layering and Texturising
Creating Structure & Flow
Module 6: Beard Grooming & Shaping (Day 3-10)
Razor Line-ups
Beard Trimming Techniques
Product Application
Beard-to-Hair Blending
Module 7: Styling & Finishing (Day 2-10)
Blow Drying Techniques
Product Selection and Application
Polished Finishes
Photographing Your Work
Module 8: Health & Safety Advanced (Day 1)
COSHH Review
Risk Management
Manual Handling
First Aid Basics
Module 9: Working on Live Clients (Day 2-10)
Shadowing Experienced Barbers
Real Appointments with Supervision
Time Management & Workflow
Client Rapport
Module 10: Portfolio & Business Skills (Day 10)
Portfolio Development
Branding Yourself as a Barber
Social Media Marketing
Intro to Chair Rental & Self-Employment
Module 11: Assessments & Review (Day 10)
Final Practical Tests
Oral Knowledge Check
Tutor Feedback
Assessment Reflection
Module 12: Career Planning & Celebration (Day 10)
Career Pathways: Employment vs Freelance
Job Interview Skills
Materials Provided
Advanced Barbering Kit (loaned) (Skin Fade Clippers, Foils, Razors, Capes)
Workbook & Digital Access to Learning Hub
Practice Heads & Real Client Access
PPE and Hygiene Supplies
Progression Opportunities
Move into NVQ Level 3 Barbering
Work in professional shops as a junior barber
Launch a freelance or mobile barbering business
Apply for retail/barber-related customer service roles
Specialise in Afro/textured, pattern, or beard styling
Attendance & Behaviour Policy
Students are expected to:
Maintain 80% attendance or above
Show respect for staff and peers
Work hygienically and professionally
Meet assessment deadlines
Participate in peer feedback and reflection
Inclusivity & Support
Our program welcomes everyone—regardless of background, race, gender identity, or education level. We offer:
One-on-one learning support
Support for neurodiverse learners
Mental health and wellbeing referrals
Refresher sessions and drop-in Q&As
Meet the Team
Carl "Razorz" Manning
20+ years in the barbering industry
Master of fades and modern styles
Barber trainer and NVQ Assessor
Nia King
Expert in diverse hair textures
Focus on inclusive grooming education
Mentor to young female barbers
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to have completed Level 1?
No
Will I receive certification?
Yes, you’ll receive a certificate mapped to NVQ Level 2 standards.
Yes! A big part of this course is working on real clients with supervision.
What kind of job can I get after?
Barber, freelance stylist, shop assistant, or enter NVQ Level 3.
Do you offer payment plans?
No.
Testimonials
"This course helped me land a job in a high-end barbershop. The real-client training was key."
— Dre R., Age 25
"The trainers really push you to be your best. Loved every second."
— Maya W., Age 21