Beauty

L2 Level 2
Full Time
1 September 2026 — 18 June 2027
City Centre Campus, Cardiff

About this course

Our VTCT Level 2 NVQ Beauty qualification is designed for learners who want to develop their skills and begin working in a professional, commercial environment. This programme can only be delivered by colleges with access to a genuine, fully operational salon - not just a simulated training space, and it includes all the essential elements needed to work effectively within the beauty industry.

What you will study

This qualification provides all the key skills and knowledge needed to thrive as a Beauty Therapist.

Learners will enjoy developing a wide range of professional techniques, including salon health and safety, client consultation, prescription facials, eyebrow and eyelash tinting, false lash application and removal, day/evening/special occasion make-up, manicure and pedicure, as well as valuable experience in setting up and assisting within a spa environment. Further optional units are; Waxing and Eyelash Lift.

As part of the full-time course, students benefit from an exciting work placement in a busy, professional salon or spa—an excellent opportunity to build confidence, gain real industry experience, and enhance practical skills Assessment for this qualification will be completed with online class tests and practical assessments.

Learners will also study ESW (Essential Skills Wales), including Application of Number and Communication, with some enriching Saturday and evening sessions to support their progress. 

Students who achieve a Grade D in English or Maths will also have the chance to resit their GCSEs during the course, helping them strengthen their qualifications and future opportunities.

Course fees

Salon Fees: £30.00

Entry requirements

3 GCSEs Grades A* - D including English Language (or equivalent). Recent school report. OR Satisfactory character reference or reference from a recent employer. OR Satisfactory reference from college to indicate good behaviour, attendance and progress OR prior learning and work experience.

Important points

  • The College welcomes contact with parents/guardians of students who are under 18.
  • Additional support is available for students with learning difficulties and disabilities.
  • Cardiff and Vale College is committed to inclusion and values diversity. We are determined to promote equality of opportunity and to treat everyone fairly and with respect.
  • Cardiff and Vale College reserves the right to make changes to this course without prior notice.
  • Course fees are subject to change. Your fee will be confirmed prior to enrolment.
  • All courses are accurate at the time of upload or print.
  • Courses can only run if there are sufficient numbers.
  • Please note, if you choose three or more course choices, then you may be referred for a careers appointment first. This does not apply to A Level or GCSE choices.
Key information

Start date

1 September 2026

End date

18 June 2027

Time of day

Day Time

Full Time

18 hours per week

Location

City Centre Campus, Cardiff
Maps & directions

Course code

HBCC2F70
L2

Qualification

Beauty Therapy

More...

What our students say

I really enjoyed my time studying at Cardiff and Vale College, it’s definitely helped me to get to where I wanted to be. I began on the Level 2 Beauty Therapy course and then progressed to the Level 3 Beauty and Spa Therapy. I then returned to do Level 4 Advanced Aesthetics. It was so great learning and getting valuable work experience in a real-life salon. The tutors were amazing, they were really helpful and supportive the whole way through. A real highlight for me was competing in the WorldSkills Competition and taking second place. Since leaving, I have set up my own salon, where I offer a range of different treatments. Next year I’ll be taking on a nail technician and a beauty therapist to help grow the business and offer even more services to my clients.

Beauty owner
Freya Rees
Former Level 2 & 3 Beauty student and Level 4 Advanced Aesthetics graduate

Career prospects & further study

£7.7billion

The industry generates almost £7.7billion for the UK Economy. NHF (2018).

This course offers outstanding opportunities for progression. Many of our students go on to compete in the prestigious WorldSkills competitions, showcasing their talent on a national stage.

Learners can also advance to Level 3 Beauty Therapy, Theatrical Make-up, or Level 2 Hairdressing, opening the door to exciting career pathways within the industry. Students can also apply to other courses at Level 2/3.

Locations

City Centre Campus, Cardiff
City Centre Campus, Cardiff

City Centre Campus,

Dumballs Road,

Cardiff,

CF10 5FE