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Pathway summary

Nail Services

Framework:
Nail Services
Level:
2/3

There has been significant growth in the number of independent nail salons and spa facilities, also in the number of existing beauty therapy salons now offering an extended range of services including nail services and spa facilities.

By completing an Apprenticeship you will have the opportunity to fulfil the role of a nail technician. Careers may take place in a variety of locations other than specialist nail salons including within hospitals, care homes, beauty salons, nail bars, spas and health clubs, both in this country and abroad. 

As a Junior Nail Technician you will carry out treatments including manicures, pedicures, nail art services and nail enhancements.

  As you progress to Nail Technician you will carry out treatments including maintaining nails using UV gel or liquid and powder, nail art designs, create nail images, airbrushing and the use of electric files.

Pathway options and levels

Nail Services - Level 2

Pathway 1: Supports the job role of Junior Nail Technician.

Nail Services - Level 3

Pathway 2: Supports the job role of Nail Technician.

Further information

Duration

Level 2:  18 months

Level 3:  24 months

Progression routes

Level 2 Routes include -  

  • Advanced Level Welsh Baccalaureate Principal Learning in Hair and Beauty Studies.
  • Level 3 Nail Services apprenticeship programme.
  • Employment as a junior nail technician or other job role in the nail services industry.

Level 3 Routes include -  

  • Employment as a nail technician or other job role in the beauty related industry. 
  • Higher education such as a Foundation Degree in Beauty Therapy and Salon Management or other programmes.

Qualifications

Level 2: NVQ Diploma in Nail Services

Level 3: NVQ Diploma in Nail Services

What are the entry requirements for this pathway?

All apprenticeship pathways in Wales have entry requirements.
If you are interested in undertaking this pathway – you need to have the following entry level qualification(s);

Level 2

There are no nationally agreed minimum entry or previous entry requirements for this framework but the following criteria may be used as guidance.

Because this industry has high client expectations and relies on repeat business importance is given to:

  • Appropriate personal presentation including clothing, nails, hair and personal hygiene. Practical, organisational and social skills.
  • Attention to detail and cleanliness.
  • A good sense of humour/amicable nature and communication skills whether dealing face to face with clients or speaking on the telephone.
  • Willingness to work flexible hours/days as agreed in the employment contract.
  • A high degree of dexterity and coordination.

Potential apprentices with a predisposition to certain skin conditions or allergies, such as occupational dermatitis, eczema or asthma, need to understand that some of the chemicals, liquids and aerosols used in nail services may have a significant effect on their health.

Colour blindness may limit progress in units requiring selection and application of colouring products.

It is advantageous to have previous experience of working within the nail services industry.

Level 2: It is advantageous to have three GCSEs Grade D in English and/or Welsh, Maths, Science or Art.

Level 3

Level 3: It is advantageous to have three GCSEs Grade C in English and/or Welsh, Maths, Science or Art.

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Document revisions

19 November 2021