Become a qualified nail technician with our VTCT Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Nail Services. Gain hands-on experience in a real salon, learning UV gel, acrylics, nail art, and client care.
Overview
The VTCT Skills Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Nail Services is a substantial vocational qualification designed to confirm your competence as a professional nail technician. Delivered in a real salon setting, this course helps you master UV gel, acrylics, nail art, client care, and health & safety. Youโll build confidence by working on real clients while gaining essential technical and business skills. Ideal for learners aged 16+ with relevant prior experience or qualifications, this diploma prepares you for employment in the fast-paced nail and beauty industry.
This course is perfect for:
Learners aged 16 and over with a Level 2 qualification in beauty therapy or equivalent experience
Aspiring nail technicians wanting hands-on salon experience
Those aiming to develop advanced nail skills and business knowledge
Individuals seeking employment or career progression in the nail and beauty sector
You will complete both mandatory and optional units such as:
This qualification is assessed through practical work on real paying clients in a commercial salon setting, ensuring you meet industry standards and commercial service times.
We require learners to complete assessments in a commercial salon environment, working with real clients to demonstrate competence under authentic working conditions.
Must be aged 16 or over
A Level 2 qualification in Nail Services or equivalent experience is recommended
VTCT
VTCT (Vocational Training Charitable Trust) is a leading UK awarding organisation offering world-class qualifications in beauty therapy, hairdressing, and complementary therapies. With over 50 years of expertise, VTCT qualifications are respected worldwide by employers and training providers.
This course may be eligible for Advanced Learner Loan funding with no upfront costs. Repayments start only when you’re earning ยฃ27,295 or more. Employer funding or self-pay instalments may also be available. Please get in touch for more info.
This qualification prepares you to work as a professional nail technician in various settings such as:
Commercial nail and beauty salons
Retail concessions or nail bars
Independent/self-employed, mobile, or home-based services
You can also join a professional association like BABTAC and gain insurance to support your career.
Getting started with London Cactus College is quick, simple, and fully supported. Hereโs how it works:
01
Explore our range of fully accredited courses and pick the one that matches your goals.
02
Complete a quick form, weโll check your eligibility and guide you through funding options like the Advanced Learner Loan
03
Once approved, get instant access to your course materials and start learning at your own pace with expert tutor support.
04
Complete the course, pass your assessments, and earn a nationally recognised qualification.
All our courses are fully accredited by NCFE CACHE, VTCT, and more.
Get guidance, feedback, and ongoing support tailored to you throughout your course.
Study anytime, anywhere. Choose online, blended, or self-paced options that suit your lifestyle.
We offer full support with Advanced Learner Loan applications
Study with professionals who bring hands-on experience into every lesson.
From enrolment to employment, weโre with you every step.
Need Help?
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions from our learners. Learn more about course details, enrolment, funding, and support, or get in touch if you need further assistance.
Most courses require you to be aged 19 or over and a UK resident for the past 3 years. Many have open entry, so no formal qualifications are needed.
Courses are delivered flexibly: online, blended, or self-paced, so you can learn when and where it suits you.
Yes, many learners use the Advanced Learner Loan, a government-backed option that covers course fees with no upfront cost.
Duration varies by course but generally ranges from 6 months to 1 year. Self-paced learning lets you progress at your own speed.
You will earn a nationally recognised qualification accredited by respected awarding bodies like NCFE CACHE, VTCT, etc.
Youโll get dedicated tutor support, learning resources, and help with funding applications throughout your course.
Yes, we support both individual and bulk staff enrolments, and offer bulk enrolment options to easily upskill your team with flexible learning and dedicated support.
We assist with funding applications, provide individual tutor support for each learner, and offer progress tracking to ensure successful outcomes.
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