Level 2 Certificate in Nail Technology
The VTCT Level 2 Certificate in Nail Technology is designed to develop your practical skills in nail enhancements and manicure treatments.
Course Summary

Course Information for Students
Who is this course for?
The VTCT Level 2 Certificate in Nail Technology is a qualification that has been specifically designed to develop your practical skills in how to provide and maintain nail enhancements and manicure treatments.
To further enhance your practical skills, you will have the opportunity to choose from the following practical units:
- How to provide nail art
- Pedicure treatments
To underpin this qualification, you will develop a sound knowledge of health and safety practices in a salon environment and how to promote client care and communications in beauty-related sectors. You will also develop an underpinning knowledge and understanding of the practical skills learned throughout this qualification.
The purpose of this qualification is to develop your skills in nail technology to a high level of occupational ability, to enable you to perform your own salon services.
Entry Requirements
English and Maths GCSE grades 2s and 3s
What will you learn?
The VTCT Level 2 Certificate in Nail Technology is designed to develop practical skills and foundational knowledge for aspiring nail technicians.
Manicure:
- Techniques for providing professional manicure services, including nail shaping, cuticle care, and hand massage.
Nail Enhancements:
- Application and maintenance of nail enhancements using UV gels or acrylics. This includes preparation, application, and aftercare
Nail Art:
- Creative techniques for nail art, allowing students to design and apply decorative elements to nails.
- Essential health and safety practices in a salon environment, ensuring a safe and hygienic workspace for both clients and technicians.
Client Care and Communication:
- Effective communication skills and client care practices to enhance customer satisfaction and build a loyal client base.
How will you learn?
Theory Sessions:
Classroom-based Learning: students will be in the classroom and receive delivery from their teacher. However, they will also have access to online resources and modules to develop their theoretical knowledge alongside the theory embedded in practical sessions. This includes studying anatomy and physiology, nail structure, and health and safety practices.
Multiple Choice Exams: theory knowledge is assessed through online multiple choice exams, ensuring students understand the foundational concepts
Practical Sessions:
Hands-on Training: on-site practical sessions allow students to apply their theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting. They will practise techniques such as manicure, nail enhancements, and nail art
Assessments: practical skills are assessed through hands-on evaluations, where students demonstrate their proficiency in various nail treatments.
What will you need to bring with you?
- Stationery: pens, notebook and A4 folder
- Full uniform
- Full nail kit
How will you be assessed?
Multiple Choice Exams: theory knowledge is assessed through online multiple choice exams, ensuring students understand the foundational concepts.
Assessments: practical skills are assessed through hands-on evaluations, where students demonstrate their proficiency in various nail treatments.
Some elements may be assessed through projects, groups tasks, professional discussions, oral/written questioning, or case study work.
Where next?
Advanced Qualifications:
- Level 3 Diploma in Nail Technology: this will deepen your knowledge and skills, covering advanced techniques and treatments.
Employment Opportunities:
- Salon work: you could apply for positions in beauty salons, nail bars or spas where you can gain practical experience and build a client base.
Who do you contact for more information?
For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk
Course Information for Employers
Information for Employers
Career Information
This course could lead to one of these careers...
Beauticians and Related Occupations
£15376
Hairdressing and Beauty Salon Managers and Proprietors
£26625
DCG Success Stories
Discover how our students have achieved success. Their hard work and dedication to learning has enabled them to succeed in rewarding careers or progress onto higher education.

We encourage progress and aspirational outcomes by guiding people onto learning pathways that lead to positive destinations. Our students have gone on to achieve great things since leaving the College. We would like to share some of their inspiring success stories with you.
Course Information Last Updated On: April 9, 2025 10:15 am