Tailored to learners passionate about hairdressing, this version of CoPE Level 3 focuses on developing confidence, organisation, and communication within a hair salon environment.
Example Applications:
Working with Others: Partner with a peer to complete a shampoo and style session.
Problem Solving: Manage difficult client requests or timing issues.
Research: Study cultural influences on hairstyles.
Discussion: Participate in salon-based reflection sessions.
Presentation: Explain colour correction steps to an audience.
This qualification complements practical hair training and supports progression to further education or work-based learning, while earning valuable UCAS points.
LEVEL 2 Units (Foundational / Intermediate Skill Development)
1. Basic Client Consultation Learn key questions to ask clients Complete a client consultation record form
Practise welcoming a client and offering appropriate services
2. Shampooing and Hair Care Identify different scalp/hair types Select suitable shampoos and conditioners
Demonstrate safe shampooing and towel drying
3. Introduction to Blow-Drying Use appropriate tools (hairdryer, brush) for short and long hair
Create a smooth, straight, or volumised finish Record steps in a basic blow-dry treatment plan
4. Hair Updos and Styling for Events Practise ponytails, plaits, and buns Create a hair-up look for a theme (e.g. prom, wedding)
Photograph your styles for your portfolio
5. Salon Health & Safety Awareness Understand salon cleanliness, PPE, and COSHH basics Identify 3 common hazards in a salon
Demonstrate good hygiene and cleaning routines
6. Teamwork in a Salon Setting Role-play working with others in a busy salon
Allocate tasks as part of a pop-up salon team Reflect on your contribution to the team
LEVEL 3 Units (Advanced / Independent Learner Focus)
1. Advanced Client Communication and Consultation Conduct a full consultation with written records Respond to client concerns (e.g. style suitability, allergies)
Evaluate how to improve future consultations
2. Creative Hair Design and Trends Research current or past fashion trends (e.g. balayage, festival braids)
Create a design mood board or digital presentation Recreate a themed look and review results
3. Cutting Techniques and Tool Handling Understand the purpose of different cutting tools (scissors, razors, clippers)
Practise one-length and layering techniques on mannequins Record safety precautions and hygiene checks
4. Salon Risk Assessment and Incident Response Write a risk assessment for a hair treatment Plan how to respond to a minor incident (e.g. equipment burn, product in eyes)
Create a poster or video on salon safety procedures
5. Planning and Running a Salon Event Create a promotional plan for a themed salon event (Mother’s Day, school leavers’ treat)
Assign roles, design flyers, and set pricing Run the event and evaluate client feedback
6. Career Pathways and Personal Progress Research hair and barbering careers, apprenticeships, and salary bands
Create a career action plan Build a tailored CV and practise an interview for a salon assistant role
Assessment Method Portfolio of written work, photos, consultation forms, reflective journals Practical observations and client/staff feedback Progress tracked through RAG ratings and session reflections
Awarding Body
ASDAN
Student Expected Outcomes
Upon completion, learners will:
- Achieve the ASDAN CoPE Level 3 certificate, earning 16 UCAS points
- Develop practical skills in hairdressing techniques, client consultation, and salon safety
- Enhance communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities within a salon context
- Build confidence in handling real or simulated client interactions
- Create a portfolio of work to support progression into further training or employment
- Explore career pathways in hairdressing, barbering, and salon management
- Receive support for reintegrating into mainstream education or transitioning to other learning opportunities, if appropriate
Key Stage course delivered to
KS3;KS4;KS5;
Admissions Criteria
Age Requirement: Applicants must be aged 13 or over at the time of enrolment.
Eligibility :Must be eligible to study in the UK. Open to learners in alternative provision, home education, or mainstream education who are seeking vocational experience and skills in business administration.
Academic Requirements: No formal qualifications are required. However, learners should be able to:
Engage in basic English and Maths tasks (an initial assessment may be carried out to support learning needs if need be).
Use or develop basic digital skills for administrative tasks.
Behaviour and Attendance Learners must demonstrate: Respectful behaviour toward staff and peers. A commitment to attending sessions regularly and actively participating.
Support Needs: Empowering Futures is an inclusive provider. Learners with SEND or additional support needs are encouraged to apply. We aim to provide appropriate support and reasonable adjustments to meet individual needs.
Referral and Enrolment Referrals can be made by: Schools Local authorities Parents/carers (for home-educated learners)
Youth and support services : All prospective learners will be invited to attend a meeting to view the provision, meet the staff, and determine whether the environment and course are suitable for their needs and goals.
Staff Experience
The course is facilitated by professionals who:
- Hold teaching and vocational qualifications in hairdressing and related fields
- Possess hands-on experience in salon environments
- Are trained in inclusive practices, safeguarding, and behaviour management
- Engage in continuous professional development to stay updated with industry standards
- Have a history of guiding learners toward further education, apprenticeships, or employment in the hair sector
Delivery Area
Classroom, online and Salon
Programme length
Up to a whole Academic Year
Transport Provided
Can be organised
Days Of Delivery
Tuesday and Thursday
Times of Delivery
9:30am -2:30pm
Staff Ratio
Group
Additional Notes
- Group Size and Delivery Format: The course is designed to be flexible and personalised to meet the needs of each learner.
We deliver the course via:
1-to-1 sessions where needed (e.g. for learners with high needs or specific support requirements)
Small group delivery with a maximum of 4 learners per group to ensure focused attention and meaningful interaction.
This model allows for effective differentiation, strong pastoral support, and the opportunity for learners to build confidence in a low-pressure environment.
- Minimum Group Size: The minimum group size is 1 learner, allowing for bespoke 1-to-1 tuition where group delivery is not suitable. We aim to group learners when appropriate, but never exceed 4 per session.
- Minimum Days per Week Learners are required to attend a minimum of one day per week, choosing either: Tuesday, or Thursday
There is no requirement to attend both days, though additional support days may be arranged by agreement for learners requiring further engagement or catch-up.
- Flexible and Inclusive Sessions are scheduled to ensure consistency and to support routine and responsibility.
Empowering Futures works with referring schools and agencies to ensure timetables are suitable and align with EHCP targets or reintegration plans.
Cost of Course
Cost per full day: £58.55 Cost per half day: £29.28
