The National Hairdressing Apprenticeship programme is designed to ensure that the apprentice receives training both on and off the job over a minimum of three years.

With a blend of on-the-job training (80%) in full time employment, and one day a week off-the-job training (20%) at Portlaoise Institute, we provide apprentice with all the necessary skills, techniques, theory, and confidence in assisting them to become a fully qualified Hairdresser.

The New National Hairdressing Apprenticeship is a nationally recognised and a flagship standard for the Hairdressing Industry in Ireland.

This is a three-year apprenticeship programme aimed at school leavers and mature applicants who are considering a career in the Hairdressing Industry, or who are currently working in the Industry and want to gain a recognised qualification in this sector.

Apprentices work four days per week in the salon, while being paid by their employer, and attend classes in the college one day per week over the three-year period. Job Ratio: 80% on-the-job and 20% off-the-job.

The Hairdressing Apprenticeship is a 3-year, work-based learning programme which leads to a level 6 Major Award on the National Framework of Qualifications. Apprentices will spend 80% on the job training with the employer and 20% at a training college. The programme aims to ensure that theoretical learning in an education or training institution is reinforced by the practical experience of undertaking a real job and equips the participant to absorb workplace culture and business processes, whilst honing employability skills. The programme is designed to provide the Hairdressing Apprentice with the knowledge, skills and competencies to become a skilled and confident hairdresser.

Hairdressers will be qualified to work autonomously in a competent, professional and independent capacity, with the ability to use the knowledge, skills and competencies required in their professional practice. They will demonstrate an extensive range of skills and services; from styling, colouring and cutting hair to performing scalp treatments.

With this three-year apprenticeship, you will become a fully qualified hairdresser, with a QQI Level 6 Qualification in Hairdressing.

Pathways to Apprenticeship Hairdressing will lead to QQI Level 5 Award on the National Qualifications Framework. The overall aim of this is to equip the learner with the vocational skills and knowledge to the world of the Hairdressing Industry/Environment. The learner will be provided with both academic and technical competencies which allows them to progress into the Hairdressing Senior Trades Course, Hairdressing Apprenticeship Programme and/or smooth integration into the workplace.

Experience real salon life working in a fully-equipped College salon, closely mentored by a team of fully qualified hairdressers who bring years of professional experience to your training.

Add to your portfolio of skills with workshops in barbering, up-styling, and colouring.

Complete your apprenticeship with a further two years on the job training to become a professional hairdresser in a vibrant and exciting industry.

This is a one-year full time QQI Level 5 and Junior Trade course, with intensive training in the skills and education required for the Barbering and hairstyling Industry. Students will have the option to progress into a second year to achieve higher qualifications in Senior Trade and International City and Guilds Diploma.

Whitehall College of Further Education has a long history of delivering this course.  This programme was designed in conjunction with Medical experts from our Vios Health partners.  It is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills required to successfully gain employment in medical administrative settings.