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.

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.

The National Hairdressing Apprenticeship is a three-year, work-based program that combines 80% on-the-job training with 20% college-based education. Leading to a Level 6 Major Award, the course ensures that theoretical learning is reinforced by practical experience in a professional salon environment. Apprentices develop a comprehensive range of skills—including styling, coloring, and cutting—graduating as confident, autonomous professionals ready to deliver high-quality services and navigate the business culture of the hairdressing industry.

This Course aims to prepare students for employment in the Hairdressing Industry. Students will be given training and confidence to secure an Apprenticeship in a Hairdressing Salon. Emphasis is put on all key areas of Hairdressing which will enhance student's techniques, creative and inter-personal skills. All practical training takes place in fully equipped Hair Salon.

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. Our highly qualified team with years of industry experience, provide training in the fully equipped college hairdressing salon. Our work experience programme offers students the opportunity to further develop their skills in selected and approved Barbers and Hairdressing salons in Ireland and abroad.

This programme has been designed to help enable participants to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to understand different infestation of pests and to the best control measures required to identify current legislation and correct mixing application and storage of hand held pesticides.