Skills for Work Hairdressing: National 4 (SCQF level 4)

Qualification information

National 4 Skills for Work: Hairdressing is an introductory qualification. It develops the skills, knowledge and attitudes, needed for work in the industry.

The Course content provides a broad, experiential introduction to hairdressing, with experience of general salon duties to support stylists and assisting with customer care. Candidates will learn about the different roles and responsibilities in hairdressing, and begin to develop vocational skills and knowledge. They will develop their skills in shampooing, conditioning and blow-drying hair, and explore the creative side of hairdressing, with the opportunity to experiment with style ideas. The Course content places emphasis throughout all Units on the employability skills and attitudes.

At SCQF level 4, learners work alone or with others on straightforward tasks with support.

Alternative assessment guidance

This subject will not have alternative assessment guidance for session 2023-24. You should refer to the Group Award/Unit specifications for detailed delivery and assessment information. For general support on delivery and assessment see the HNVQ assessment guidance 2023-24.

Qualification structure

Group Award code C238 74 24 SCQF credit points)

The Skills for Work Course in Hairdressing at SCQF level 4 consists of four mandatory Units.

For further information on the structure and units of this qualification please refer to the Course Specification document (164 KB).

Unit search

How to assess

Assessment will be based mainly on practical activities carried out in a salon environment. Performance evidence will be supported by tutor observation checklists. Candidates will also review their own performance, and gather evidence in a folio.

Each Unit will be supported by a National Assessment Bank (NAB) item which will provide an assessment package and will exemplify the national standard.

There is no external assessment for this Course. Learners must successfully complete each Unit to achieve the Course.

Unit specifications provide detailed information on the Evidence Requirements for each Unit. The Unit Support Notes provide information on approaches to assessment for each Unit.

The Units are internally assessed by centres and externally verified by SQA.

Qualification Verification Summary Report

Deliver this qualification

Why study this qualification

This qualification is suitable for a wide range of learners including:

  • pupils from mainstream schools or other education establishments
  • school leavers
  • adult returners to education
  • learners in employment who wish to enhance their career prospects
  • learners participating in 16+ programmes
  • college students wishing to develop their skills and knowledge in relation to Hairdressing
  • trainees participating in preparation for entering employment
  • individuals involved in voluntary activities

Access

Entry is at the discretion of the centre.

Employment and progression

Successful learners may progress to: 

  • an SVQ/NVQ in hairdressing
  • a full-time National Certificate Course in Hairdressing in Further Education colleges
  • vocational training
  • employment

Qualification structure

Group Award code C238 74 24 SCQF credit points)

The Skills for Work Course in Hairdressing at SCQF level 4 consists of four mandatory Units.

For further information on the structure and units of this qualification please refer to the Course Specification document (164 KB).

Unit search