Description
At the Stafford Signature School of Cosmetology, our future professionals are prepared for careers as licensed cosmetologists in the state of Vermont. Students are guided by our Learning Leader through each level in our Cosmetology Program, beginning with Level 1: Core, and then Level 2: Adaptive and Creative. Students will assume more advanced techniques and build real-world practical skills and confidence as they progress through each stage of our program.
Level 1: Core is a foundation course that focuses on the theory and fundamentals of cutting, color, texture, styling, skin, and nails, as well as an introduction to our Stafford Technical Center ATE School culture. Our future professionals will learn the fundamentals in theory, then practice them hands-on in the classroom. Students will initially practice these skills on mannequin heads while receiving personalized critique and attention from the Learning Leader, who will guide them in becoming more comfortable and skilled in the techniques they are learning.
Technical Areas Covered in Level 1: Core includes:
- Theory Essentials
- Microbiology
- Design Composition
- Proper sanitation and disinfection practices for the field
- Professional Communication Skills needed for client consultations
- Braiding, up-styling, and finishing
- Perming and smoothing hair
- Hair coloring and lightening
- Precision haircutting skills
- Manicure, pedicure, makeup, and facials
YOUR LEARNING LEADER: Michelle Daigle has been an enthusiastic and skilled cosmetologist operating her own business–Cutting Edge Salon–since 2000. She is a graduate of the Vermont College of Cosmetology in Burlington, Vermont, and has stayed at the top of her game by taking the opportunity each year to continue her own education and training through a variety of classes and workshops related to her field. Michelle discovered her love for teaching when she supervised two apprentices who she helped earn the supervised hours needed to earn their Vermont cosmetology license. Both are now working as skilled professionals in the field. Michelle was instrumental in helping to develop this local cosmetology program for working adults in the Rutland County area.
PREREQUISITES: Students enrolling in this course must have an earned GED or high school diploma at the time they enroll. Students must also submit a letter of recommendation from an employer, teacher, or mentor who will testify to the applicant’s desire to enter the field of cosmetology and their willingness to commit the energy and time needed to be successful in this program. Because it has been designed for adults who are employed in areas outside of this profession, the program will require your attention for approximately 47 weeks. However, despite the length of time required to complete the program, you will still be able to earn a living while making a career transition into a field that you truly love. Applicants must also schedule and hold an interview with the Assistant Director for Adult Technical Education and the Learning Leader for this program. If accepted into the program, your first payment must be processed no later than two (2) weeks after the start of the program. Failure to satisfy this requirement will result in dismissal from the program.
REQUIRED PERSONAL RESOURCE: All students will be expected to own a laptop or other device so as to be able to access all of the Pivot Point instructional materials both in class and at home.
LEARNING RESOURCES AND SUPPLIES: Your tuition includes the e-textbook and online laboratory resources via our educational support provider Pivot Point. Students will also use the resources in the Novice Kit they will receive in Core 1 and will continue to be used throughout the education and training program provided by the Stafford Signature School of Cosmetology.
FINANCIAL AID: All students are encouraged to explore the financial aid opportunities that are offered through the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC). Several grant programs can assist you in meeting the costs associated with enrolling in this and the other modules that you will need to complete in order to be eligible to sit for your Vermont state licensing examination. Please use this link to gain direct access to contact information for our VSAC Outreach Counselor. Vermont Financial Aid Opportunities – Stafford Technical Center (staffordonline.org)
OVERALL PROGRAM GOAL: Students who successfully complete this comprehensive 1,000-hour program of curriculum, theory, and clinical experiences will be prepared to sit for the Vermont state licensing examination offered through Prometric Test Centers, an internationally recognized third-party testing service located in Williston, Vermont and Concord, New Hampshire. They will take a written and practical examination that is aligned with the testing standards endorsed by the Vermont Secretary of State Office of Professional Regulation (OPR).
Please be advised that Stafford Technical Center does not guarantee employment after students complete this training program nor does it provide access to school-based career counseling or employment placement services. When appropriate, referrals are made by STC program staff to local employers and government agencies that can assist eligible candidates in developing a strategy for employment.
