Certificate in Barbering (MADE): C&G (Level 5) - Fast Track

A male instructor in a light green sweatshirt assisting a female student with a mannequin head in a barbering classroom.

Qualification

C&G

Study Mode

Full Time, Short Course

Duration

18 weeks - 4 days per week

Start date

Aug 2026

Campus

Springburn

Applications open January 2026

Course overview

Train fast, learn smart, and master your craft with MADE: The Academy for Modern Barbering @ Kelvin.

This 18-week fast-track course delivers intensive, hands-on barbering training. You’ll work with industry barbers and Glasgow Kelvin College lecturers to build the practical and professional skills needed to launch your career.

MADE @ Kelvin is a recognised training brand with a proven record of producing confident, salon-ready barbers. Delivered in our barbershop at Springburn Campus, you’ll develop your cutting, styling and client-care skills while gaining a City & Guilds qualification that’s respected across the industry.

The fast-track model is ideal for learners who are ready to commit fully and progress quickly. You’ll train intensively over four days per week, developing both technical ability and personal discipline, with theory, practical sessions, and client-based experience forming the foundation of your learning.

You’ll also learn how to build your own social media barbering profile, helping you establish your personal brand and client base as you prepare for employment.

This course is ideal for:

Individuals ready for an intensive, hands-on learning environment.
Anyone looking to combine technical skill, creativity and client interaction.
Self-driven learners who can commit to home practice and study alongside training.

You will be provided with an essentials barbering kit that suits this level of learning.

What you will learn

You’ll gain professional, industry-relevant skills and knowledge through a mix of theory and live salon practice, including:

Working in the Industry – communication, customer service and teamwork.
Health & Safety – safe and hygienic practice standards.
Tools, Products & Equipment – learning to use and maintain your barber kit (included).
Consultation Skills – understanding client needs and building rapport.
Shampooing & Conditioning – techniques and scalp massage.
Cutting Men’s Hair – precision cutting, fading and blending.
Facial Hair Design – shaping, trimming and styling beards and moustaches.
Styling & Finishing – product use and presentation skills.
Social Media & Profile Building – creating an online presence and client base.
Employability Skills – professionalism, time-keeping and workplace readiness.

Training takes place in our commercial barbershop, combining model work with guided salon experience to build your confidence and speed.

A barbering student in a black hoodie discussing skin fades and short back and sides in a training facility.

Thinking about a career in barbering? Our 18-week City & Guilds-certified Barbering course at MADE in Kelvin is the perfect place to start.

Some students from our MADE fast track Barbering course offer some advice & information for anyone interested in the Barbering course at Made in Kelvin

Watch the video to find out more about what you’ll learn and how you can start building your skills in a real industry setting.

View on YouTube

Entry requirements

✅ No prior barbering experience required

✅ A strong interest and enthusiasm for the barbering industry

✅ Self-motivation and commitment to home study and practice essential

✅ A strong personal statement will support your application and help ensure the right course placement

ℹ️ Applicants must be 16 years or older at the start of the course

ℹ️ For this course, if English is not your first language

you need to have SQA ESOL National 5 (or equivalent, click here to see equivalent qualifications)

If you do not have a formal ESOL qualification but your language skills meet this level, you should apply for your course and then contact our Admissions team to organise an internal language assessment here at the College.

Successful trainees will complete the course with a City & Guilds qualification and be invited to graduate with Glasgow Kelvin College.

Career Opportunities

Graduates from this course can pursue careers such as:

💈 Barber or Junior Barber

✂️ Freelance or Mobile Barber

Future prospects

After completion, you’ll gain a City & Guilds qualification and be invited to graduate with Glasgow Kelvin College.

You can progress to Level 3 City & Guilds Barbering training at another establishment, or move directly into employment within a professional barbershop.