Understanding level 2 nail technician courses: a complete guide

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In your search for the perfect nail course, you may have come across terms like level 2 and 3, VTCT, diploma and more. If you’re new to the game, it can be super confusing finding out what the different terms mean and understanding which is the right qualification for you. That’s where we come in! We’re here to demystify the world of nail courses, giving you all the tools to find the training solution that ticks all your boxes.

Today, we’ll be delving into the world of level 2 nail technician courses, giving you all the info on what they involve and who they’re suitable for.

What are nail course levels?

In the UK, when people talk about nail course levels they’re usually referring to VTCT and NVQ levels. VTCT stands for Vocational Training Charitable Trust and this is the name of the awarding body where you can get NVQs. The trust also has its own qualifications, which is why you may see providers advertising VTCT nail technician qualifications, as well as NVQs.

NVQs on the other hand are the qualifications themselves, NVQ stands for National Vocational Qualification.

Levels, in relation to VTCTs and NVQs are the qualifications you can get in the beauty industry, depending on how complex or in-depth the course is. For example, a level 2 nail technician course is often less comprehensive than a level 3 course.

Level 1 vs level 2 nail technician courses

When it comes to NVQs, there are up to 7 levels to choose from. Level 1 is the least complex qualification, whereas level 7 is the most comprehensive – the equivalent to a master’s degree. On the other hand, there are only 2 VTCT levels, 2 and 3.

Generally speaking though, a level 1 NVQ qualification is equivalent to 3/4 GCSE grades D-G, whereas a level 2 NVQ qualification is the same as 4-5 GCSE grades A*-C. But what does this mean in the beauty world?

You don’t necessarily need any previous qualifications to complete a level 2 nail technician course, but some colleges may require GCSEs to qualify for the course. In some cases, you may need to complete a level 1 nail technology or beauty therapy course, which covers the basics when it comes to nail treatments and teaches how to assist an experienced nail technician.

Some of the things you can expect to learn on a level 2 nail technician course include:

Manicure/pedicure training
How to use the relevant nail care tools safely
Learning how to manage a salon reception desk
Nail art
E-file training
General customer service, professionalism and team-working skills
Acrylic and gel nail applications
Salon health and safety

Your performance in the beauty salon, including treatments and reception responsibilities, will be formally assessed. You’ll also be evaluated based on an e-portfolio, online tests, assignments, and face-to-face inquiries throughout the duration of the course.

It’s also worth noting that most salons require at least a level 2 nail technician qualification to work there. Some of the level 2 courses you can complete includes:

Level 2 vs level 3 nail tech courses

So, now you’ve completed your level 1 and level 2 nail technician courses, what comes next? Level 3 of course! This is the next step above a level 2 course and builds on the skills you’ve learnt previously. When you finish a level 3 nail course, you should know how to:

Create unique nail art designs using a variety of polishes, intricate detailing, and a range of brush sizes.
Build durable gel nails with tips and learn how to safely remove them without causing any harm to the natural nails.
Provide clients with beautiful hands and feet through manicure and pedicure treatments, employing expert filing techniques, cuticle treatments, removal of excess hard skin, soothing massages, and an impeccable nail finish.
Build a professional and genuine relationship with your clients, boosting their confidence in consultations and encouraging them to explore new services and products. This will help to give you an edge and get ahead in the uber-competitive beauty industry!
Maintain a safe and hygienic working environment
Arrange captivating displays in your salon to effectively promote and sell services.
Safely operate an electric file for the preparation and finishing of any overlay materials.

Can you complete a level 2 nail course online?

In short, no. All VTCT and NVQ level 2 nail courses involve practical assessments and training, therefore they cannot be completed online. But this is a good thing! These in-depth training courses give you practical skills that can be applied effectively in a salon or whilst working for yourself.

‘Where can I enrol in a level 2 nail technician course?’

In most cases, you’ll need to find a training centre close to you so you can easily attend training sessions. Fortunately, there are colleges and educational facilities across the UK that provide these qualifications.

If you’re applying for a level 2 nail course through a college, you may need to check that you meet all the right entry requirements e.g. GCSE qualifications, prior training, fees etc. Then, you’ll be required to attend regular classes until your course is complete. Whereas, for some courses you simply need to pay and enrol online and you’ll be provided with all the relevant information.

How much does a level 2 nail course cost?

Nail course costs can vary wildly depending on factors such as:

Your location
The quality of the course
The nail supplies included in the course
Group or individual teaching

Generally, level 2 nail courses are on the more expensive side as they involve face-to-face teaching and you get a VTCT or NVQ at the end.