In today’s fast-paced beauty industry, nail technicians are at the forefront of creativity and self-expression. The ICTQual Level 2 Diploma for Nail Technicians provides aspiring nail artists with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in this rewarding field. Whether you’re passionate about intricate nail art designs or want to specialize in nail care, this diploma is the perfect starting point.
The ICTQual Level 2 Diploma for Nail Technicians is a comprehensive program designed to equip learners with essential techniques and theoretical knowledge. It covers everything from nail anatomy to advanced nail art, ensuring graduates are industry-ready and confident to work in salons, spas, or as independent professionals.
Take the first step toward a vibrant career in nail artistry with the ICTQual Level 2 Diploma for Nail Technicians. With industry-leading training and endless opportunities, this qualification sets the stage for success.
Level 2 Diploma for Nail Technicians
- Entry Requirements
- Study Units
- Learning Outcomes
- Future Progressions
- Centre Requirements
- Certification Route
To enroll in the ICTQual Level 2 Diploma for Nail Technicians, candidates should meet the following entry requirements:
- Age Requirement: Candidates are generally required to be at least 16 years old.
- Interest or Experience: A keen interest in nail technology and some prior experience or informal practice may be beneficial but not mandatory.
- Language Skills: Candidates should have basic proficiency in English to understand course materials and communicate effectively during practical assessments.
- Access to Resources: Candidates may need access to a salon environment or appropriate equipment to complete practical units.
To achieve the ICTQual Level 2 Diploma for Nail Technicians: Candidates must complete the following 8 Mandatory units and at least 1 Optional Units of Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 450 Hours, Guided Learning Hours (GLH) of 300 Hours, and 45 Credit Hours.
Mandatory Units – Candidates must complete all units in this group
- Professional Standards for Working in a Salon Environment (Credits: 2)
- Conducting Comprehensive Client Consultations as a Beauty Professional (Credits: 3)
- Understanding Anatomy and Physiology for Nail Technicians (Credits: 4)
- Applying UV or Gel Polish Treatments for a Perfect Finish (Credits: 5)
- Creating Basic Nail Art Designs and Techniques (Credits: 5)
- Safely Removing Nail Enhancements (Credits: 4)
- Delivering Expert Manicure Services (Credits: 8)
- Providing Professional Pedicure Treatments (Credits: 8)
Optional Units – Candidates must complete at least one unit in this group
- Applying Nail Enhancements Using Cyanoacrylate for Long-Lasting Results (Credits: 6)
- Applying Nail Enhancements Using UV-Cured Products for Durability (Credits: 6)
- Creating Nail Enhancements Using Monomer Liquid and Polymer Powder for a Custom Look (Credits: 6)
Learning Outcomes of the ICTQual Level 2 Diploma for Nail Technicians:
Mandatory Units
Professional Standards for Working in a Salon Environment
- Demonstrate professionalism by adhering to salon standards, including punctuality, appropriate appearance, and effective communication with clients and colleagues.
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized salon environment in compliance with health, safety, and hygiene protocols.
- Provide excellent customer service by meeting client needs and ensuring their comfort throughout the service.
- Work effectively as part of a team to ensure smooth salon operations and client satisfaction.
Conducting Comprehensive Client Consultations as a Beauty Professional
- Conduct detailed client consultations to assess nail health, preferences, and any relevant medical or lifestyle factors.
- Develop a personalized treatment plan for each client based on their needs, ensuring the appropriate services and products are recommended.
- Build rapport and trust with clients by listening attentively and responding to their requests and concerns.
- Educate clients on proper nail care and maintenance techniques to prolong the results of services.
Understanding Anatomy and Physiology for Nail Technicians
- Understand the structure and function of the nail and surrounding skin, including the anatomy of the nail bed, cuticles, and matrix.
- Recognize common nail disorders and diseases, and know when to refer clients to a healthcare professional.
- Apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology to ensure safe and effective nail treatments.
- Understand the effects of various treatments on the nails and surrounding skin to prevent damage and maintain healthy nails.
Applying UV or Gel Polish Treatments for a Perfect Finish
- Master the techniques for applying UV or gel polish to achieve a smooth, long-lasting finish.
- Prepare nails properly before application, including cleaning, filing, and priming.
- Apply gel polish in thin, even layers to prevent bubbling and ensure durability.
- Cure the polish under UV light, ensuring proper curing times for a flawless finish.
Creating Basic Nail Art Designs and Techniques
- Demonstrate proficiency in basic nail art techniques, including stamping, freehand painting, and decals.
- Use various tools, such as brushes and dotting tools, to create intricate designs on nails.
- Apply nail art in a way that complements the client’s overall style and preferences.
- Ensure the longevity of nail art by applying a protective topcoat and giving proper aftercare advice.
Safely Removing Nail Enhancements
- Remove nail enhancements, such as gel or acrylic nails, safely without causing damage to the natural nails.
- Use the appropriate removal techniques, such as soaking, filing, or using acetone, to gently dissolve or lift enhancements.
- Educate clients on the proper aftercare to support nail health following the removal of enhancements.
Delivering Expert Manicure Services
- Provide high-quality manicure services that include nail shaping, cuticle care, exfoliation, and polish application.
- Choose the correct tools and products to ensure client safety and optimal results.
- Incorporate relaxation techniques into the service, such as hand massages, to enhance the client experience.
- Ensure nails are properly prepared and finished for long-lasting results and client satisfaction.
Providing Professional Pedicure Treatments
- Provide professional pedicure services, including exfoliation, cuticle care, and foot massage, to maintain healthy feet and nails.
- Treat common foot concerns, such as calluses and dry skin, using appropriate products and techniques.
- Apply polish or other finishing treatments to enhance the appearance of the nails.
- Offer relaxation and comfort throughout the pedicure service, ensuring the client’s overall well-being.
Optional Units
Applying Nail Enhancements Using Cyanoacrylate for Long-Lasting Results
- Master the use of cyanoacrylate-based nail enhancements to create durable, custom-shaped nails.
- Apply enhancements to provide length, strength, and desired shape, ensuring a secure bond with the natural nail.
- Educate clients on maintaining and caring for cyanoacrylate enhancements to ensure their longevity.
Applying Nail Enhancements Using UV-Cured Products for Durability
- Apply UV-cured products to create nail enhancements that are durable and long-lasting.
- Use appropriate techniques for applying UV gels to enhance nail strength and appearance.
- Ensure proper curing times and techniques to prevent lifting or premature wear of the enhancement.
- Provide aftercare advice to maintain the health and appearance of the nail enhancements.
Creating Nail Enhancements Using Monomer Liquid and Polymer Powder for a Custom Look
- Create custom nail enhancements using monomer liquid and polymer powder to form acrylic nails.
- Master the skills of mixing and applying acrylic to create a perfect, personalized set of nails.
- Sculpt, shape, and file the acrylic nails to achieve the desired design, ensuring durability and comfort.
- Educate clients on how to care for acrylic nails to prolong their lifespan and maintain healthy nails underneath.
Future progressions for ICTQual Level 2 Diploma for Nail Technicians:
- Level 3 Diploma for Nail Technicians
- After completing the Level 2 Diploma, candidates can progress to the Level 3 Diploma for Nail Technicians. This advanced qualification further develops skills in nail art, nail enhancements, and advanced nail care techniques, preparing individuals for more complex services and higher-level roles in the beauty industry.
- Specialist Nail Technician Qualifications
- Graduates of the Level 2 Diploma can choose to specialize in specific areas of nail technology, such as advanced nail art, nail extensions, or medical nail care, through specialized training programs and certifications.
- Salon Management and Entrepreneurship
- For those aspiring to run their own nail salon or work in management roles, further qualifications in salon management, business, and marketing will be beneficial. These programs will teach the skills required to manage operations, staff, and client relations effectively.
- Beauty Therapy Qualifications
- The qualification opens the door to other beauty therapy qualifications. Graduates can choose to expand their expertise into areas such as facials, waxing, or makeup artistry, allowing for a more diversified skill set and greater career opportunities in the beauty industry.
- Freelance Nail Technician
- The qualification also allows graduates to pursue a career as a freelance nail technician, offering services independently to clients at their convenience. This career path provides flexibility and the potential for higher earnings, along with the ability to create a personalized brand and business.
- Teaching and Assessing
- For those interested in passing on their skills, becoming an educator or assessor in nail technology is a possible career progression. With additional qualifications in teaching and assessing, individuals can train future nail technicians, helping to shape the next generation of professionals in the industry.
By completing the ICTQual Level 2 Diploma for Nail Technicians, individuals are laying the foundation for a variety of career paths and advanced learning opportunities, ensuring continued professional growth and success in the ever-evolving beauty industry.
Even if a centre is already registered with ICTQual AB, it must meet specific requirements to deliver the ICTQual Level 2 Diploma for Nail Technicians. These standards ensure the quality and consistency of training, assessment, and learner support.
1. Approval to Deliver the Qualification
- Centres must obtain formal approval from ICTQual AB to deliver this specific qualification, even if they are already registered.
- The approval process includes a review of resources, staff qualifications, and policies relevant to the program.
2. Qualified Staff
- Tutors:
- Must hold a Level 3 or higher qualification in Nail Technology or related fields.
- Must possess a teaching qualification (e.g., Level 3 Award in Education and Training).
- Should have relevant industry experience in nail treatments, including manicure, pedicure, nail art, and the application of nail enhancements (e.g., gel and acrylic).
- Assessors:
- Must hold a recognized assessor qualification (e.g., Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement).
- Must demonstrate expertise in both theoretical and practical aspects of nail technology.
- Internal Quality Assurers (IQAs):
- Must hold an IQA qualification and have experience monitoring the quality of vocational training in beauty or nail technology.
3. Learning Facilities
Centres must have access to appropriate learning facilities, which include:
- Classrooms:
- Equipped with multimedia tools for teaching nail anatomy, health and safety, and nail product science.
- Practical Training Areas:
- Dedicated nail bars or salons equipped with:
- Manicure and pedicure stations.
- Tools and equipment for nail art, gel polish application, acrylics, and nail tips.
- Proper lighting, ventilation, and ergonomic seating for learners and clients.
- Technology Access:
- E-learning platforms offering digital resources such as tutorials, case studies, and assessments.
4. Health and Safety Compliance
- Centres must ensure that practical training environments comply with relevant health and safety regulations.
- Risk assessments must be conducted regularly to maintain a safe learning environment.
5. Resource Requirements
- Learning Materials: Approved course manuals, textbooks, and study guides aligned with the curriculum.
- Assessment Tools: Templates, guidelines, and resources for conducting and recording assessments.
- E-Learning Systems: If offering online or hybrid learning, centres must provide a robust Learning Management System (LMS) to facilitate remote delivery.
6. Assessment and Quality Assurance
- Centres must adhere to ICTQual’s assessment standards, ensuring that all assessments are fair, valid, and reliable.
- Internal quality assurance (IQA) processes must be in place to monitor assessments and provide feedback to assessors.
- External verification visits from ICTQual will ensure compliance with awarding body standards.
7. Learner Support
- Centres must provide learners with access to guidance and support throughout the program, including:
- Academic support for coursework.
- Career guidance for future progression.
- Additional support for learners with specific needs (e.g., disabilities or language barriers).
8. Policies and Procedures
Centres must maintain and implement the following policies, as required by ICTQual:
- Equal Opportunities Policy.
- Health and Safety Policy.
- Complaints and Appeals Procedure.
- Data Protection and Confidentiality Policy.
9. Regular Reporting to ICTQual
- Centres must provide regular updates to ICTQual AB on learner enrollment, progress, and completion rates.
- Centres are required to maintain records of assessments and learner achievements for external auditing purposes.
Route for Candidates with No Experience
This route is ideal for learners who are new to the Nail Technicians field and do not have prior work experience. The process is as follows:
- Admission: The candidate enrolls in the program at an ICTQual Approved Training Centre.
- Training: The learner undergoes formal training, covering all the essential study units. Training will include both theoretical instruction and practical activities.
- Assessment: Learners will be required to complete and submit assignments based on the course’s learning outcomes. These assignments will test the learner’s understanding and application of the course material.
- Certification: After successfully completing the required assignments and assessments, the learner will be awarded the ICTQual Level 2 Diploma for Nail Technicians.
Route for Experienced and Competent Candidates
For candidates who already have relevant work experience in Hairdressing, the following route is available:
- Eligibility: The candidate must have at least 3 years of verified experience in Nail Technicians or a related field. This experience must be relevant to the learning outcomes of the qualification.
- Assessment of Competence: The candidate does not need to undergo the full training program. Instead, the ICTQual Approved Training Centre will assess whether the candidate’s existing knowledge and skills align with the learning outcomes of the course.
- Evidence Submission: The candidate must submit documentation and evidence of their work experience to demonstrate competence in the required areas. This can include job roles, responsibilities, and tasks performed that align with the learning outcomes of the course.
- Knowledge and Understanding: Centres must ensure that the candidate is familiar with all the course’s learning outcomes. If necessary, a skills gap assessment may be conducted to determine if any additional learning is required.
- Certification: Upon successful verification of experience and competence, the candidate will be awarded the ICTQual Level 2 Diploma for Nail Technicians without having to complete the full training course.
Both routes ensure that candidates either gain the necessary knowledge through training or demonstrate their existing competency to achieve the ICTQual Level 2 Diploma for Nail Technicians. This flexible approach caters to both new learners and experienced professionals seeking formal certification.
FAQs
The ICTQual Level 2 Diploma for Nail Technicians is a professional qualification that equips individuals with the essential skills and knowledge needed to work as a nail technician. It covers practical techniques in nail care, including manicures, pedicures, nail enhancements, and nail art, along with key theoretical concepts such as anatomy, client consultation, and hygiene.
This course is ideal for individuals who are passionate about pursuing a career in the nail technology industry. It is suited for beginners who want to gain foundational skills and for those looking to formalize their existing knowledge in nail care and techniques.
Candidates must be at least 16 years old, have a good understanding of written and spoken English, and possess basic literacy and numeracy skills. No prior experience in nail technology is required, although a strong interest in beauty and nail care is recommended.
This ICTQual Level 2 Diploma for Nail Technicians course takes 45 credit Hours training program that will be completed in 2-4 months.
ICTQual Level 2 Diploma for Nail Technicians is offered in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But the final decision is made by ATC.
Yes, assessment consist of 8 mandatory and 1 optional assessments . These assessments are designed to evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and their capacity to apply concepts in practical situations. It is mandatory to pass assessments with a minimum score of 75%