Hairstylist Foundation Program

The SD38 Youth Train in Trades Hairstylist Foundation Program is offered in partnership with Vancouver Community College (VCC). Students taking this program will get full theoretical knowledge and practical training in hair design including cutting, colouring, styling, and overall salon management while serving real clients at VCC’s state-of-the-art salon and spa. Upon successful completion of this certificate program, graduates will be able to:

perform all duties of a hairstylist in accordance with industry health and safety standards related to hygiene, sanitation and disinfection practices
use and maintain tools and equipment according to industry standards
perform shampooing, conditioning and scalp massaging services using the correct manipulations and professional haircare products
demonstrate elevated and non-elevated haircuts using a variety of tools and techniques and MUCH MORE!

Application - Youth Train in Trades 2025-26 (PDF)

Program Details

Earn 36 high school credits (9 courses) at the grade 12 level
Foundation students must complete 300 hours of practicum work in order to meet with SkilledTradesBC standards
School District #38 covers VCC tuition costs for this program
Students are responsible for the cost of program learning resources, student tools/kit, and applicable student fees

Minimum Requirements:

any Language Arts 11 (SD38 requires)
any Math 11 (SD38 requires)
successful results on district entrance exam

Recommended Attributes (VCC):

sincere interest in administering personal services;
interpersonal and communication skills required for providing customer service;
good hand-eye coordination;
manual dexterity and creative ability;
normal colour vision;
good depth perception and ability to perceive line and form;
ability to stand for long periods of time;
ability to plan and work independently;
self-motivated and a sense of responsibility;

Candidates considering this program are likely to be most successful as graduates if they are in good health and are aware that health concerns such as asthma, respiratory problems, skin conditions and eczema may be present in this career.

Program Length:

This full length of this program is 10 months and is offered in a progression of 3 courses
The maximum time to complete this program is two years
This program runs from from 9:00am to 6:00pm either Monday to Wednesday or Thursday to Saturday (check with Career Programs for this)
Location is at the VCC Downtown (Pender) Campus

View Program Partner information details here:

Vancouver Community College - Hairstylist