Alternative Provision: VTCT Level 1 Hair & Beauty Diploma
- Alternative Provision
- For ages 11–16
- From £150 per day
- Start November 2026
- Start March 2027
- Small class sizes (maximum 8 learners)
- Recognised VTCT qualification
- All tools, equipment and professional products provided
- Hot meals and refreshments included
- Attendance monitoring and progress reporting
- Supportive learning environment with optional 1:1 support available
Helping young people rediscover confidence, purpose and a positive approach to learning through practical, vocational education.
Alternative Provision VTCT Level 1 Hair & Beauty Diploma (Ages 11–16)
A Practical, Supportive Alternative to Mainstream Education
Our VTCT Level 1 Hair & Beauty Diploma provides a structured, vocational learning pathway for young people aged 11–16 who thrive in a practical environment. Designed specifically for alternative provision learners, the course helps build confidence, develop transferable skills, and improve engagement through hands-on learning.
Delivered in small groups with experienced tutors, learners receive personalised support while working towards a recognised VTCT qualification. Students develop practical skills in hairdressing and beauty therapy alongside communication, teamwork, and professional behaviours.
“NSHB was flexible, accommodating, and highly supportive of the student’s individual needs.” AP Coordinator- Ann Burton- Sprowston Community Academy
Course Overview
- Accredited qualification: VTCT Level 1 Diploma in an Introduction to Hair and Beauty
- Location: Norwich, Norfolk
- Entry Requirements: None, start as a complete beginner
- Who Can Join? 11-16 year olds, small class sizes (maximum of 8) so learners get lots of 1 to 1 support from our expert tutors
- What’s included? All products, tools, equipment PLUS a hot meal for lunch and refreshments
Why Schools Choose NSHB?
We work in partnership with schools, local authorities and learning providers across Norfolk to deliver high-quality alternative provision that supports positive outcomes for young people. Our vocational approach helps learners re-engage with education while gaining a recognised qualification and valuable life skills.
“Communication was excellent, the team were approachable, responsive and quick to offer support.”
Benefits include:
- Recognised VTCT qualification
- Practical, engaging learning environment
- Regular communication with schools and parents/carers
- Attendance and progress reporting
- Experienced, supportive tutors
- Clear progression opportunities into Level 2 qualifications and beyond
- Small class sizes led by expert, industry-based tutors
“NSHB did everything possible to support the student, offering flexible hours and additional staff support where needed.”
“I would highly recommend NSHB to others seeking a quality, supportive learning environment.”
Ideal For Learners Who:
- Are struggling in a traditional classroom environment
- Are at risk of disengagement or exclusion
- Have low confidence or poor attendance
- Benefit from practical, hands-on learning
- Would thrive in a smaller, supportive setting
- Have an interest in hair, beauty, wellbeing or creative industries
“The partnership has had a genuinely positive impact, helping attendees build confidence and improve interpersonal skills.” Big Active Norfolk
We are also proud members of Flourish and Safer Norfolk, which support our efforts to provide the young people of Norfolk a safe environment to flourish. All our staff are Enhanced DBS checked and safeguarding and First aid trained too.
Come to our Taster Day!
Join our Level 1 Hair and Beauty Taster Day and experience education done differently. Book your place today.
On our VTCT Level 1 Diploma in an Introduction to Hair and Beauty learners will cover:
- Introduction to the Hair and Beauty Sector
- Create an Image
- Presenting a Professional Image
- Health & safety in the salon
- Client Consultation
- Skincare
- Makeup
- Face Painting
- Manicure & pedicure treatments
- Nail Art
- Shampoo and Condition Hair
- Colour Hair
- Style Hair
- Plaiting and Twisting Hair
Alongside practical training, we see learners develop essential life skills, including confidence, communication, teamwork and resilience, often leading to improved engagement and a more positive outlook on learning.
Progression Opportunities
Learners can progress to:
- VTCT Level 2 course in Hair of Beauty for under 16s
- Train on higher level courses such as Level 2 Beauty Therapy or Level 2 Hairdressing for over 18s
- Enrol at college on a Level 2 course in hair or beauty (subject to entry requirements)
- Advance your social and communication skills to help you in your next steps into education or work
Next course dates
Option 1: Start October 2026
Mondays (Year 7-11)
9.30am-2.30pm
Term-time only
October 12, 19
November 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
December 7
January 11, 18, 25
February 1, 8, 22
March 1, 8, 15, 22
April 19, 26
May 10, 17, 24
June 7,14, 21, 28
July 5, 12, 19
Option 2: Starts March 2027
Wednesdays and Thursdays
9.30am-2.30pm
Term-time only
March 17, 18, 24, 25
April 14, 15, 21, 22, 28, 29
May 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27
June 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30
July 1, 7, 8, 14, 15
Assessment:
Multiple-choice theory exams & ongoing practical assessments in a supportive environment. Students must be willing to work on each other in the class to complete this.
Come to our Taster Day!
Join our Level 1 Hair and Beauty Taster Day and experience education done differently. Book your place today.
We understand the importance of accountability, safeguarding, and clear outcomes when placing a learner with an external provider. All placements follow Norfolk’s Non-School Alternative Provision guidelines and we are happy to complete relevant documentation and support school visits.
We are also proud members of Flourish and Safer Norfolk, which support our efforts to provide the young people of Norfolk a safe environment to flourish.
To view all policies and procedures, please follow this link.
- All green RAG rating for AP from Norfolk County Council
- Fully aligned with Norfolk AP guidelines
- All staff Enhanced DBS checked
- Safeguarding trained staff
- Risk assessments and documentation provided
- Open to school visits and quality assurance
Arrange a visit or discuss a placement today. We’d be happy to talk through the best option for your students. Contact us today.
