New Zealand Certificate in Hairdressing (Salon Support) (Level 3)
Beauty & Personal Care
A course by
Ara Institute of Canterbury
Gain the foundation skills needed to start a career in hairdressing. This introductory programme provides core knowledge and techniques required for work in a salon environment.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Ara Institute of Canterbury (exact campus TBC), Christchurch
It will take a total of 1 year
Core skills this course teaches
Gain foundational knowledge and skills in hairdressing
Demonstrate understanding of salon culture, terminology, communication with clients and colleagues, and the ability to perform basic salon tasks.
Perform elementary hairdressing techniques
Complete basic cutting using mannequins, style hair with methods such as blow drying and setting, and undertake colour applications and treatments safely.
Understand and apply salon hygiene and safety requirements
What You're Signing Up For
This programme provides an introduction to the hairdressing industry, teaching you about salon culture, communication, and the foundational practical skills needed for salon work. You'll learn and practise basic haircutting, styling, consultation, colour application, treatments as well as health and safety and personal presentation. The programme is suitable for school leavers (16–24 years) or anyone wishing to begin a career in hairdressing and leads to further qualification pathways.
Course Content
- Salon culture, hierarchy and terminology
- Client and supervisor communication
- Basic haircutting technology and techniques
- Mannequin hair practice
- Limited scope consultation and hair/scalp analysis
- Elementary styling: blow drying, moulding, setting, long hair-ups
- Introduction to colour applications
- Treatments, health and safety, hygiene
- Personal health and presentation in salons
What you need to know first
Open entry (no previous academic qualifications required)
English language requirements apply
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Hairdressing
Beauty and Personal Care
Future employment opportunities might be
Entry-level salon assistant
Salon support roles
Progression to junior stylist/apprentice positions