Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
We have put together some of the most popular questions we receive, if you have a question that is not answered here we would love to hear from you, so please get in touch
Where are you located?
Our training academy is located near the Corn Exchange, on the corner of Kirkgate & Wharf Street, 5 minutes from the bus station and 5-10 minutes from the train station. See our Find Us page for map & directions.
Are there any entry requirements?
You don’t need an existing hairdressing or barbering qualification or literacy/numeracy skills to start a course at LAFHAB. As all teaching is in English, students are expected to be able to understand, speak and write in English to a good standard. If English is not your primary language then we can assess your level through testing.
Am I too old? Are there age restrictions?
Our students are mixed ages from 16 to late fifties, so whatever age you are you would be comfortable in our training environment.
How long will it take? How quickly can I complete my course?
From the outset we set a target completion date, which is 12 months for the standalone NVQ courses, however students can complete much sooner with regular and frequent attendance, as you can attend as often as you wish – up to 5 days a week. The time it will take is dependent on certain factors such as how frequently you can attend and how quickly you pick things up. Standalone NVQ courses can sometimes be completed in as little as 12 weeks with regular attendance, less frequent attendance will of course result in taking longer.
What will I get after this course?
Upon completion of our courses you would receive a certificate confirming your training and competency, issued by VTCT for the NVQs, Ashley Marie for the hair extensions courses and our own for the introductory, refresher and personalised courses.
Can I get a job straight away on completion? Will your courses allow me to work in a salon/barbers?
The level 2 NVQ courses are widely recognised and sufficient for someone to work as a stylist/barber, so they are suitable for working in a salon or barbershop immediately upon completion.
Do I have to provide my own clients?
Our learners are not required to provide their own clients as we advertise and offer discounted services in our salon & barbers, however they are more than welcome to do so if this may be an option as some people gain confidence quicker with clients they are familiar with.
Is there a guaranteed pass rate? What happens if I don’t complete?
We give you a target completion date of 12 months for the standalone NVQ courses, 21 months for the combined. You must attend with the aim of completing by that date, in the unlikely event that we approach that time and you haven’t completed we will discuss options, including an extension (for which additional fees may apply).
What if I have holidays booked? Can I have attendance breaks?
With our flexible attendance, you can easily take time off your course as required, just let us know in advance. When you return you would simply pick up where you left off. Please bear in mind that a target completion date is set at the start of your course, and you must always aim to complete by then, so if you have taken time off and you do not attend frequently you may need to increase your attendance to compensate for absence.
Can I do this around other commitments?
Our flexible attendance allows you to fit training in with other commitments, including children and employment. You also don’t need to attend full days, as you can be here for just morning or afternoons sessions. As well as accommodating those with changing shift patterns, this also makes attendance convenient for those with school-age children. All we ask is for a commitment of a minimum 1 day (or equivalent) a week on average, and that you always aim to complete by your target completion date.
Are your qualifications recognised overseas?
Our NVQ courses are VTCT-accredited, these are recognised not only in the UK but across Europe and the rest of the world. Different countries have different requirements, therefore those looking to be accredited to work overseas must contact an industry body of their chosen country to check the legal requirements with their country of choice themselves before commencing a course with us.
What are the courses hours and days?
We don’t work to the academic calendar, instead students can start on almost any date, this can be as soon as the next working day (Tues-Sat). We offer students the option of specifying the days they want to train, around their availability. This means they can train & learn for 1,2,3, 4 or 5 days a week, and this can be different days each week. Training starts at 10am (10.30 Fridays) and finishes around 3.30 – 4pm.
Do I need to wear a uniform?
We don’t have a specific uniform, however we have a dress code requesting sensible clothing and closed shoes
Do I need to purchase any equipment?
We provide training materials and resources, Learners will need to purchase a full training kit, a list will be provided before starting. A tablet (eg iPad or Kindle Fire) or a laptop/MacBook is recommended, but not essential. Learners will also require training heads (usually up to 4 for hairdressing or barbering), the first head is included and additional ones required are available to purchase at the academy at discounted prices. We provide our Learners with a letter confirming their course, which allows them to open trade accounts with exclusive discounts at WAHL, Sally’s, Barber Blades and Chris & Sons.
How does the training work?
We start with theoretical training using HABIA’s own training materials for individual units, the next stage for most units is practising on training heads. In addition to the practical training, we regularly hold practical demonstrations with industry professionals. When both Assessors and you feel that you are ready, you will then start performing services on real clients in the salon or barbers, under supervision. Throughout your course duration you will complete many client services which will give you a great deal of salon/barbers experience. We provide one-to-one tuition and additional support where required, we have additional resources and support for people with Dyslexia or other learning difficulties. We also provide individual learning plans, and progress is tracked with periodic reviews.
I am dyslexic, how will this affect my course?
Additional resources and tutoring are provided to students with dyslexia, so please let us know when your course commences. |
