Apprenticeship ยท Level 6 ยท Hairdressing

Hairdressing

A three-year apprenticeship to become a qualified hairdresser. It suits creative, detail-minded people who are good with clients.

How apprenticeships work: you are hired by an approved employer and paid while you learn, mixing work with blocks of training in a college or training centre. You don't apply through the CAO and you don't need CAO points.

Key facts

How long
3 years
Award
QQI Level 6 Qualification in Hairdressing
Where you train
  • National programme managed by Limerick and Clare ETB (no specific colleges listed)
Pay
You earn a salary from your employer while training on and off the job. The rate is agreed with your employer.
Costs
No student contribution is required.

Entry requirements

  • You must be hired by an employer approved by SOLAS
  • Full eligibility criteria are in the Hairdressing Apprenticeship brochure

How to apply

You must be hired by an approved employer. Search the Apprenticeship Jobs page, or enquire or apply on the National Hairdressing Apprenticeship website.

Enquire / Apply โ†— Official page on apprenticeship.ie โ†—

What you'll learn

  • Client consultations and communication
  • Cutting, colouring and lightening hair
  • Perming, blow drying and up-styles
  • Shampooing and conditioning
  • Salon reception and customer care

Where it can lead

  • Hairdresser in the hairdressing industry

Useful Leaving Cert subjects

Art, Biology, Home Economics

These help with the content of the programme; they are not entry requirements unless listed above.

Tertiary degrees in Personal Services

Not sure which route suits you?

Our CAO Interest Test matches you to course areas, and now shows apprenticeships and tertiary degrees in your strongest areas too.

Take the CAO Interest Test โ†’ Try the free 3-minute test

Information from apprenticeship.ie, checked November 2026. Details can change, so always confirm on the official page before applying.