Advanced beauty therapist
Level 3 · AdvancedHair and beauty 1.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
An advanced beauty therapist provides a broad range of specialist beauty and aesthetic treatments beyond the standard therapist level, including advanced facials, body treatments, and technology-based therapies. Apprentices develop expertise in complex treatment planning, skincare science, and client care while working in salons, spas, or clinics. This apprenticeship can lead to management roles, specialist aesthetics practice, or self-employment.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Advanced facial and skin treatment protocols and product knowledge
Body therapy techniques including massage, wrapping, and contouring
Use of technology-based equipment such as microdermabrasion or IPL
Skin analysis and advanced client consultation skills
Anatomy and physiology relevant to beauty and aesthetic treatments
Retail and business development skills for a therapy practice
Health, safety, and hygiene standards in a clinical setting
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Carry out advanced facial treatments and skin-specific programmes
Deliver body massage and specialist body therapy treatments
Operate technology-based equipment safely following protocols
Complete detailed skin analysis and create personalised treatment plans
Advise clients on homecare routines and recommend retail products
Maintain accurate client records and treatment notes
Ensure the treatment room meets hygiene and safety standards
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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