MATSEC SEC Hairdressing and Beauty study plan

Label a blank diagram of the hair shaft and follicle, then explain in writing how cuticle condition changes porosity and affects cutting and styling choices.

Demonstrate a uniform blunt cut on a mannequin using clean sections, a stable guide line and zero elevation, and photograph the finished result from three angles.

Identify 12 salon hazards, including slip, burn, chemical and electrical risks, and match each one to a control measure ranked by the hierarchy of control.

Sequence a full pre-service safety routine covering client skin and scalp checks, tool disinfection, PPE selection and safe waste disposal.

Explain the colour wheel and describe how complementary tones neutralise unwanted reflects in tint and lightener work.

Calculate correct mixing ratios and processing times for 20, 30 and 40 volume developers across three worked client scenarios.

Describe the purpose and timing of patch tests, skin tests and strand tests, and state the action to take when a reaction is recorded.

Compare the chemistry of oxidative colour, perming and relaxing, naming the bonds broken and reformed and the pH range of each product type.

Draft a chemical-service safety sheet covering gloves, ventilation, overlapping product, eye protection and client contraindications.

Label the layers and functions of the skin and link each layer to a suitable facial product or treatment action.

Perform a full facial routine on a model, sequencing cleansing, exfoliation, extraction where appropriate, massage, mask and moisturiser with correct hygiene between steps.

Demonstrate four classic facial massage movements with correct direction, pressure and timing.

Script a 10-minute consultation using open questions, a record card and plain-language aftercare advice, then record it for self-review.

Describe the hair growth cycle, naming each stage and its duration, and explain how it affects cutting, colouring and hair removal planning.

Label the main structures of the natural nail and identify three signs of nail or skin disorder that require referral rather than treatment.

Explain the functions of the skin and the healing considerations that shape what a beauty therapist may safely treat.

Adapt consultation questions and aftercare wording for three client profiles, including a first-time colour client and a client with a scalp concern.

Compare shampoo types by surfactant, pH and intended scalp condition, and select the correct option for four given client profiles.

Demonstrate shampooing with correct water temperature, scalp massage movements, rinsing and towel technique on a mannequin or model.

Explain how conditioning agents smooth the cuticle and describe the difference between surface and penetrating treatments.

Identify common scalp conditions and state which ones require referral before a treatment proceeds.

Build a product knowledge matrix for 15 salon products covering active ingredients, pH, use, contraindications and cost per service.

Execute a layered cut on a mannequin using consistent sectioning, elevation and tension, completing it within 45 minutes.

Apply a full-head tint with correct sectioning, even saturation and accurate development timing, then explain the rinsing and aftercare steps.

Perform a foil placement pattern for partial highlights and justify placement relative to the client face shape and parting.

Run a timed two-hour combined cut-and-colour service on a mannequin while maintaining a clean, safe workstation throughout.

Perform a complete manicure and pedicure sequence, including filing in one direction, cuticle care, massage and polish application without flooding the cuticle.

Shape nails into square, oval and almond forms and state which hand and finger shapes suit each.

Explain hair removal methods, including warm and hot wax, and list contraindications, patch-test timing and aftercare advice.

Map makeup application steps to three face shapes and select corrective techniques for each.

Apply salon hygiene and disinfection routines to shared nail, waxing and makeup tools.

Complete a full timed mock paper across all ten domains under exam conditions and log every wrong answer by domain.

Redo the three weakest practical skills identified from weeks 1 to 7 and record what changed.

Explain cutting and colouring decisions aloud in exam-style answers, using correct terminology for angles, elevation, developers and bonds.

Assemble a one-page formula and definitions sheet for the final week, limited to facts you can explain without notes.