Hair and Barbering Vocational Support Assistant

Role Purpose

To support in the planning and delivery of high quality – inclusive hairdressing and barbering sessions that engage and inspire children and young people with additional needs, including those with Special Educational needs (SEND).

The role involves supporting students to gain practical skills, build confidence and achieve vocational qualifications such as VTCT and AQA unit Awards.

The Hair and Barbering Vocational Support Assistant will contribute to each student personal, social and academic development through a student-centred approach, preparing them for progression into further training, education or employment.

Key Responsibilities

Learner Support

• Provide tailored 121 and small group support to learners with SEND needs.
• Use person-centred approaches to build trust and engagement.
• Support learners in developing both practical hair and barbering skills and essential soft skills (e.g., communication, teamwork, resilience).

Inclusive Learning Environment

• Collaborate with teaching staff to adapt learning materials and activities to meet diverse needs.
• Promote a safe, respectful, and inclusive classroom culture where all learners feel valued and supported.
• Implement strategies to manage behaviour positively and support emotional regulation.

Confidence and Career Development

• Encourage learners to take pride in their work and celebrate progress, however small.
• Support learners in setting personal and vocational goals.
• Assist with CV writing, interview preparation, and work experience placements where appropriate.

Collaboration and Communication

• Work closely with tutors and external professionals to ensure consistent support.
• Maintain accurate records of learner progress and support strategies.
• Participate in team meetings, training, and professional development activities.

Skills & Abilities

• Practical Expertise – technical skills in hairdressing and/or barbering, with the ability to confidently support and guide learners through a range of techniques.
• Adaptability – Able to adjust teaching methods and content to suit learners with SEND.
• Communication – Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage learners and work collaboratively with colleagues and professionals.
• De-escalation management – Skilled in managing engagement calmly and constructively using restorative approaches.
• Relationship building – Ability to form positive trusting relationships with students who may be disengaged, anxious or lacking in confidence.
• Organisation – Strong organisational skills to assist session preparation, assessment and learner progress tracking.
• Motivational coaching – Ability to inspire learners, build self-esteem, and create a supportive encouraging learning environment.
• Record Keeping – competent in maintaining accurate records of attendance, progress, behaviour and assessment in line with awarding body and organisational standards.
• Empathy and Patience – emotionally intelligent, calm and patient when supporting students with complex needs or difficult life experiences.
• Digital Literacy – Able to use basic ICT tools for learner tracking and accessing qualification resources.
• Health and Safety awareness – Understanding of best practices in maintaining a safe and hygienic salon environment, including safe use of equipment and products.

Experience & Qualifications 

Essential
• Experience working with young people or adults with complex SEND needs.
• Level 2 or 3 Certificate/Diploma in Hairdressing or Barbering (e.g., VTCT, City & Guilds, or equivalent)
• Knowledge of inclusive education practices and behaviour support strategies.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and flexible in a dynamic learning environment.
• First Aid training (or willingness to work towards).

Desirable
• Level 2 or above qualification in Supporting Teaching and Learning, Youth Work, or equivalent
• Experience working in a vocational or alternative provision setting.
• Familiarity with EHCPs (Education, Health and Care Plans) and supporting learners to meet their outcomes.

Behaviours & Attitudes

• Empathy: Foster a supportive environment that encourages understanding and compassion among students and staff.
• Integrity: Uphold honesty and strong moral principles in all interactions and decisions.
• Resilience: Encourage students to develop coping strategies and the ability to bounce back from challenges.
• Trust: Build a culture of trust where students feel safe to express themselves and take risks in their learning.
• Authenticity: Encourage students to be true to themselves and embrace their individuality.
• Commitment: Instil a sense of dedication to personal growth and the learning process.
• Honesty: Promote transparency and truthfulness in all communications and assessments.
• Enjoyment: Create a joyful learning environment where students find pleasure in their educational experiences.
• Learning: Encourage a lifelong love of learning and curiosity about the world.
• Respect: Cultivate an atmosphere of mutual respect among students, staff, and the wider community.