A Cut Above the Rest, using NCFE’s unique accreditation scheme

McDonalds, Flybe and Network Rail did it and now a north east businesswoman is following suit – launching her own nationally recognised work-based training programme.

Ann Ahmed, who owns IYAN Hair and Beauty in Tyne and Wear, used national qualification provider NCFE’s unique accreditation scheme to launch Level 2 Hair Care & Style award, which gives nationally recognised certificates to customised training.

Ann developed the award after discovering that there was a demand for a short course in styling, to offer a refresher course for hairdressers re-entering the industry and to encourage more people to pursue a career in hair and beauty.

The award covers cutting and styling hair using various techniques and fashions. It is aimed at people considering hair and beauty as a career option and hairdressers looking for a refresher course.

Ann Ahmed said: “This award gives anyone interested in hairdressing the opportunity to find out if they actually want to pursue a career in the hair and beauty industry, whilst gaining a nationally recognised NCFE certificate. It is also designed for hairdressers and people who want to re-enter the profession and are looking for a refresher course. Hair styles, like any other fashion, frequently change so it is important that hairdressers are aware of current trends.”

“I decided to accredit the course through NCFE as I have previously worked with the organisation and it is a very professional business which I feel gives credence to any award. I used to run my own adult training company when a friend asked me to give her a hand in her salon in 2000. This led me to train as a hairdresser and I have now combined these careers so that we can train people in hairdressing and give them a nationally recognised certificate upon completion.”

Ann has a team of well qualified stylists and assessors who will be working on the award and, as well as qualifying as a hairdresser, she has also gained numerous qualifications including Assessors Award, Internal Verifiers Award, Certificate in Further Education and a BA (Hons) in Further Education.”

Anne Railton, NCFE’s sector leader for accreditation services, said: “Finding the right training for niche workplace learning can be difficult as one size rarely fits all.

“Ann has a wealth of experience in both hair and beauty and the training industry and discovered there was a real need to develop a short course in hair care and style. Our customised award licence allowed her to develop her own bespoke training programmes, to deliver targeted training which is unique, effective and is recognised as a national award.”

The award is a 30 hour programme and is delivered 1 day a week over 5 weeks. At the end of the programme students can then progress onto an NVQ Level 2 in Hairdressing.