Hairdressing - Level 1 - Gravesend

Applications Open - 26th September 2025

Applications Close - 14th August 2026 for application forms - please visit www.northkent.ac.uk if applying after this date for GCSE Open Events and Open Enrolment Dates.

How to Apply - Apply through KentChoices

PLEASE NOTE - Popular courses can fill up quickly so apply early to avoid disappointment

This is the only Lee Stafford Academy in Kent and South East London, and one of only 12 across the UK.

Why study at the Lee Stafford Academy?

Not just a celebrity endorsement, the training programme has been developed by Lee himself with Further Education specialists, to train not only the students, but also our own experienced hair and barbering staff.

Students will learn specially designed ‘recipes’ which are unique to Lee Stafford Academies, reflecting some of the most cutting-edge styles seen in salons across the UK, by receive training in up to 21 fundamental skills and techniques.

These skills can be tested in National competitions with other Lee Stafford Academy students in FE Colleges across the UK during the academic year.

This programme offers an introduction to the hairdressing industry and the basic skills needed to assist in a salon. During your time at college you will have the opportunity to work in our modern, well equipped, hairdressing salons learning the skills needed for the Level 1 qualification. This focuses on shampooing, conditioning, basic blow drying and styling techniques. Training is carried out on blocks and other group members before progressing onto family friends and paying clients.

You will also be introduced to basic cutting and colouring techniques in preparation for the Level 2 qualification. In addition there are a number of optional units that you will be able to choose from, your lecturers will guide you when making these choices.

Health and Safety is also an important aspect of the hairdressing industry so time will be spent learning how to recognise hazards and risks to enable you to work in a safe and secure environment. You will be expected to behave in a highly professional manner at all times while in the salons and surrounding public areas. You will wear a uniform and will need to bring your hairdressing equipment to all salon sessions.

Functional skills in English and maths are taught alongside the vocational skills. These are important to you as they will help to prepare you for the next level of qualification. It is recommended that you find part time work or voluntary work in the hairdressing industry to support your college training.