Level 1 Certificate · VTCT · Full-Time · 1 Year
No formal qualifications needed. This is your introduction to the beauty side of the industry, where you'll start learning the basics of professional presentation in a salon, try out nail art, basic make-up and manicure treatments, and work out where you want to specialise at Level 2. Everything you do sits inside a real working salon environment.
Your introduction to beauty. No formal qualifications required.
Other courses you might be interested in:
Level 1 Level 1 Certificate Introduction to the Hair & Beauty Sector VTCT – Beauty
Level 1 Level 1 Certificate in an Introduction to the Hair and Beauty Sector VTCT – Hair
Level 2 Level 2 Diploma Beauty Therapy Studies VTCT
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This year is designed to introduce you to the beauty side of the industry. You’ll learn how to present yourself professionally in a salon, and try out nail art, basic make-up application and basic manicure treatments. It’s practical, hands-on, and pitched at the level of “I’m interested, but I don’t know exactly what I want to specialise in yet.”
You’ll work in the Salon at The Hub, our professional on-campus salon where students carry out treatments in a real working environment. By the end of the year you’ll have a clearer idea of which Level 2 specialism suits you: Beauty Therapy, Nail Technology, or Hair and Media Make-Up.
Written assignments, research projects, and case studies that let you explore topics in depth.
Hands-on tasks and practical demonstrations in realistic working environments.
Hairdressing and beauty salon managers and proprietors plan, organise, direct and co-ordinate the activities and resources of hairdressing and nail salons, beauty treatment, pet grooming and similar establishments.
Beauticians and related workers give facial and body beauty treatments, apply cosmetics and dress wigs.
Complementary health associate professionals use non-mainstream treatments in support of conventional medical treatments.
As part of your course, you'll work in Salon at The Hub, our professional on-campus salon. This is where treatments happen on paying clients in a real working environment.
Salon at The Hub
professional on-campus salon with genuine treatments on paying clients.
Masterclasses from industry professionals
take part in workshops and talks that connect the training to how the industry actually works.
Work placements
take part in workshops and talks that connect the training to how the industry actually works.
Student Voice
With the support and opportunities provided by staff and tutors, I developed valuable skills through interview preparation and guidance. This gave me the confidence to go self-employed and enter the beauty industry with assurance in my work.
If your child needs to resit GCSE English or Maths, it's built into the timetable — not bolted on as an extra. They'll get structured support alongside their main course.
About student supportIf your child has additional learning needs, our support team works with them from day one. Adjustments are put in place early so they can get the most out of their course.
About learning supportBursaries are available, and free meals are provided for those who qualify. If cost is a concern, there's help — and it's straightforward to apply.
Financial support infoLevel
Level 1
Duration
1 Year
Study Mode
Full-Time
Awarding Body
VTCT
Entry
No formal qualifications (individual basis)
Assessment
Coursework + Practical Assessment
Age
16+
Progression Routes
Route A: L1 → L2 (Beauty Therapy Studies, Nail Technology, Hair and Media Make-Up, or Women's Hairdressing) → L3 → Salon employment or self-employment
Applications for September 2026 are open. Apply online in 10 minutes.
Questions? Call free 0800 358 7575 or email dcinfocentre@don.ac.uk