
Cosmetology
Our 3-year Cosmetology programme provides 5,488 hours of training across six modules, covering hair and body care, salon management, and hygiene. Trainees complete the first year in skills training, followed by two years of apprenticeship, culminating in a Certificate of Apprenticeship
Programme Information

Training Centres
The CLA centre is where most of the Board’s Evening programmes are held. It also is known for its Agricultural and Engineering Skills Training programmes.…
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Our brand new programme in Cosmetology is designed to meet a need for trained entry-level persons to function competently in the Cosmetology industry.
Trainees will be taught the importance of proper hygiene in the salon and the various scalp infections to look out for. In addition, they will learn to treat the hair of persons of different races. The programme constitutes 5488 hours of training time over a 3 year period. Six modules are to be completed in this programme comprising Generic Skills, Salon and Retail Management, Hair Maintenance, Beauty Treatment Services, Body Treatment Services and Related Studies.
The initial year will be completed in the Skills Training programme, with the final two years in the Apprenticeship programme. The training will be modular, with strategic releases for on-the job training. Apprentices will required to sign a formal contract with employers and will be assessed according to the performance criteria established. They will receive a certificate of Apprenticeship on successful completion of the course.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the class hours for the Skills Training Programme?
Classes are conducted from 8:00 am until 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday, with the exception of Computer Applications classes which are conducted from 8:30 am – 11:30 am or 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm.
How often are programmes offered and what is the duration?
Classes are offered annually on a semester system starting in August. Most classes run for two semesters and end in June, however there are some classes which run for one semester and begin again in January.
Can I work and attend the Skills Training Programme?
No. Skills Training programmes cater to unemployed persons. The Board also conducts Evening programmes which cater to employed persons.
Is there an age limit?
Yes, applicants must be at least age sixteen (16) to be considered for selection to most programmes. Some programmes require the student to be at least eighteen (18) years of age.
Do I have to bring/buy tools for my class?
Trainees are not expected to bring their own tools to class. They are however encouraged to save some of their stipend towards the purchase of tools and equipment for their personal use after they have completed training and have begun their careers.
Is there a fee for attending Skills Training Programmes (STP)?
Barbadians do not have to pay any tuition fees to attend the Board’s Skills Training programme. Tuition is free of charge. In addition the Board provides all students with a stipend which will assist with expenses including lunch and transportation costs. Non-Barbadian students with the requisite visa are required to pay tuition fees.
What is a stipend?
A stipend is a fixed regular sum of money paid to trainees to help cover expenses related to their attendance.
Does the Barbados Vocational Training Board provide financial assistance for applicants?
No, although in extreme cases referrals are made to external agencies on the behalf of the student.
How much is the stipend?
The stipend is calculated based on attendance. If all sessions are attended, the stipend is $125.00 per week and it is paid every two weeks.
Is there a job attachment involved?
During training some persons are sent on job attachment. Selection for
job attachment is determined by the trainee’s performance, attitude, and
behaviour as well as the availability of spaces at participating
companies.
