Published: 8 June 2026
By: Phindile Zwane
Applications Open for New QCTO Hairdresser Qualification at EEC Springs Campus
Young South Africans interested in building a career in the beauty and haircare industry can now apply for the newly launched Occupational Certificate: Hairdresser (SAQA ID 102497), which will commence in July 2026 at EEC Springs Campus.
The programme is designed to prepare learners for professional careers in hairdressing through a combination of classroom learning, practical training, and workplace experience in real salon environments.
Only 20 learners will be selected for the 2026 intake, with applications closing on 26 June 2026.
Programme Overview
| Programme | Occupational Certificate: Hairdresser |
|---|---|
| Qualification Type | QCTO Occupational Certificate |
| SAQA ID | 102497 |
| NQF Level | 4 |
| Minimum Credits | 540 |
| Campus | EEC Springs Campus |
| Start Date | July 2026 |
| Funding | NSFAS Funded |
| Intake Capacity | 20 Learners |
| Closing Date | 26 June 2026 |
A Career Pathway into South Africa’s Beauty Industry
Hairdressing remains one of the most sought-after vocational careers within South Africa’s growing beauty and personal care sector.
Professional hairdressers provide services such as:
- Hair cutting
- Hair styling
- Hair colouring
- Chemical treatments
- Hair and scalp treatments
- Client consultations
- Salon customer service
The qualification aims to equip learners with the practical and technical skills required to work professionally within salons and the broader beauty industry.
What Learners Will Study
The qualification follows the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) framework and consists of three compulsory learning components.
Knowledge Modules
These modules will be delivered through classroom-based learning at the college.
Learners will study:
- Hair science
- Haircare principles
- Client consultation techniques
- Health and safety practices
- Professional salon procedures
Practical Skills Modules
Practical training will be conducted through:
- College-based workshops
- Professional product training studios
- Industry-focused practical sessions
Students will develop hands-on skills under the guidance of experienced industry professionals.
Workplace Experience Modules
An important part of the qualification involves workplace exposure.
Learners will be placed at participating salons where they can gain practical experience while applying their classroom knowledge in real-world settings.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet one of the following entry requirements:
Option 1
- Grade 9
- Previous hairdressing experience
- Not currently committed to a salon
Option 2
- Grade 10
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy passed
In addition, applicants must meet NSFAS eligibility requirements for the 2026 academic year.
According to the programme information, applicants should not have previously received NSFAS funding for another qualification.
Personal Qualities the Programme Is Looking For
Hairdressing is a people-focused profession that requires both technical ability and strong interpersonal skills.
Suitable candidates should demonstrate:
- Professionalism
- Creativity
- Reliability
- Teamwork
- Commitment
- Customer service orientation
- Physical stamina for long working hours
Applicants should also be willing to commit to the full three-year qualification pathway.
Responsibilities of Successful Learners
Students accepted into the programme will be expected to:
- Take responsibility for their learning and development
- Attend training sessions consistently
- Demonstrate professionalism in workplace settings
- Participate fully in practical and workplace training
- Maintain a positive attitude towards clients and colleagues
The workplace component plays a critical role in developing industry-ready graduates.
Benefits of the Programme
The qualification offers several advantages for aspiring hair professionals.
Industry-Relevant Training
Learners will receive training aligned with current industry standards and occupational requirements.
Professional Product Studio Exposure
Practical training will take place in professional product brand studios, allowing learners to gain exposure to industry tools, products, and techniques.
Workplace Experience
Students will be placed in salons for workplace training, helping them gain valuable experience and industry exposure.
NSFAS Funding Opportunity
Eligible students may receive funding support through NSFAS for the 2026 academic year.
Why Hairdressing Remains a Valuable Career Choice
South Africa’s beauty and personal care industry continues to provide employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for skilled professionals.
Qualified hairdressers may pursue careers as:
- Salon Hairdressers
- Hair Colour Specialists
- Salon Managers
- Freelance Stylists
- Beauty Entrepreneurs
- Haircare Consultants
Many experienced professionals eventually open their own salons or build independent client bases.
The practical nature of the profession also means that skilled hairdressers can often generate income through self-employment opportunities.
How to Apply
Interested applicants must submit:
- A short Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Highest qualification obtained
- Clear contact details
- A short motivational letter explaining why they are suitable for the programme
Applications must be sent via email to:
Selection Process
Only 20 learners will be selected.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend a pre-placement interview.
Placement interviews are scheduled to take place between:
29 June 2026 and 3 July 2026
Applicants are encouraged to ensure that their contact details are accurate and active.
Application Deadline
Closing Date: Friday, 26 June 2026
Late applications may not be considered due to limited spaces available.
Editorial Analysis
Occupational qualifications continue to play an important role in addressing skills shortages while providing alternative career pathways outside traditional university education. The launch of this QCTO-accredited Hairdresser qualification reflects ongoing demand for skilled professionals within South Africa’s beauty and wellness sector.
For learners who enjoy creativity, customer interaction, and practical work, hairdressing offers a career path with opportunities for employment, self-employment, and business ownership.
With only 20 places available for the 2026 intake, eligible applicants may wish to submit their applications well before the closing date.
Sources and References
- EEC Springs Campus Hairdressing Programme Information
- QCTO Occupational Certificate Framework
- South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)
- National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)
- Haircare and Beauty Industry Training Standards
Editorial Transparency
This article is based on information supplied in the official programme advertisement. The publisher is not affiliated with EEC Springs Campus, NSFAS, QCTO, or any participating salon partners and does not participate in learner selection. Applicants should verify programme requirements directly with the institution before applying.
Information was accurate at the time of publication.
