SASSOON CUT

Drawing on over 70 years of Sassoon expertise, this immersive 3-week programme introduces a modern, inclusive approach to cutting and barbering for all hair types, textures, lengths, and identities - without reference to gender.

Course Overview

The course progresses from core ABC foundations through inclusive barbering techniques, and into advanced ABC+ methods, equipping learners with a complete, adaptable cutting system suitable for today’s global salon environment. Through demonstrations, hands-on practice, and expert guidance, participants will develop precision, confidence, and creative flexibility, enabling them to deliver tailored, contemporary results for every client.

Designed for motivated learners at different stages of their career, this programme blends classic discipline with innovative techniques, creating a clear pathway from fundamentals to advanced application.

Requirements

Learners should have a solid understanding of client care and basic cutting or barbering skills. (Level 2 NVQ or country equivalent).

Suitable for:

Recently qualified barbers or stylists wishing to refine technical skills
Experienced professionals to revisit and evolve classic techniques.

Attendees must be 18 years or older on the first day of the course.

Course Focus and Outcomes

By the end of the 3 weeks, participants will:

Confidently apply the ABC cutting system across all hair types
Deliver inclusive, gender-neutral haircuts
Combine classic and innovative techniques with precision
Work creatively with length, texture, and shape.

Course Modules

Building on ABC foundations, Week 2 focuses on modern barbering using scissors and clippers together.

Focus:

Precision cutting for short hair
Scissor-over-comb and clipper techniques
Fading techniques with control and balance
Disconnection methods
Finishing and detailing
Inclusive barbering services regardless of gender.

Learning Methods:

Demonstrations and guided practical work
Hands-on sessions on mannequins and live models
Real-world barbering application and refinement.

This week establishes the core principles of the ABC cutting system.

Focus:

Understanding suitability, proportions, and bone structure
Creation of geometric shapes
Mastery of lines, graduation, and layering
Combining techniques to create versatile outcomes
Working with partings
Precision finishing and product application
Inclusive haircut design for all hair types and textures.

Learning Methods:

Demonstrations
Practical sessions on mannequin heads and live models
Lectures on suitability and structure.

Building on ABC foundations, Week 2 focuses on modern barbering using scissors and clippers together.

Focus:

Precision cutting for short hair
Scissor-over-comb and clipper techniques
Fading techniques with control and balance
Disconnection methods
Finishing and detailing
Inclusive barbering services regardless of gender.

Learning Methods:

Demonstrations and guided practical work
Hands-on sessions on mannequins and live models
Real-world barbering application and refinement.

The final week introduces ABC+, combining innovation with classic Sassoon discipline.

Focus:

Reverse layering and reverse graduation
Advanced disconnection
Freehand cutting techniques
ABC+ matrix understanding
Creating modern, wearable hair at any length or texture
Tailoring haircuts for today’s global salon environment.

Learning Methods:

Demonstrations or follow-along sessions
Hands-on work on live models or mannequins
ABC+ matrix and freehand presentations.

Review your learning options with one of our experts

Mon - Fri 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. GMT

What Our Students Say

Have been on Salon Creative and ABC now and both courses have taught me so much every time. The way I cut hair & think about haircuts has changed completely – in the best way!!

Phoebe Carraro,

Sutton, UK

I took this course without knowing what the class was going to be like. But I love doing everything in one week. Great course! I love all the instructors. Thank you!

Kanna Ryan,

Kansas, USA

I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you on behalf of myself and the other two KH hair owners. Three team members attended last week's ABC cutting course and were blown away. Thank you so much they have gained from attending.

Helen fuller

Owner of KH Hair Hinckley

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Frequently Asked Questions

Vidal Sassoon training is globally recognised as the ultimate in hairdressing education, providing you with a passport to a successful career in the international world of hair. Synonymous with excellence, the Vidal Sassoon Academy delivers the finest education for beginners and experienced hair professionals.

For over 65 years, the reputation of Vidal Sassoon has been built on developing and providing world-class education at our hair academies and education centers around the globe. Through an unparalleled system of training that has become definitive, our instructors deliver our hairdressing courses with passion and professionalism, inspiring generations of Hair Professionals of all levels of experience.

Continually developing an ever-evolving series of educational opportunities that have become definitive, including its world-renowned propriety methods, ABC Cutting And Colouring Hair The Vidal Sassoon Way. That legacy and commitment to sharing knowledge has grown exponentially over the last six decades and positions Vidal Sassoon Academy as the global leader in industry education.

The forward-thinking that epitomises Vidal Sassoon Academy continues to be seen on a daily basis with the wide range of courses offered to meet a variety of experience levels and learning needs. We strive to guide all of our students to achieve technical and creative excellence, and with the selection of courses available, plus the continuous evolvement of our curriculums to reflect our seasonal collections and trends, we believe that no other institution compares to Sassoon Academy.

Our students are a combination of loyal, experienced hair professionals who want to update their skills and new students who would like to experience the Vidal Sassoon method for the first time. We appreciate that it takes commitment and courage to study something new, especially if you are changing careers and have not been inside a classroom for some time. However, bear in mind that you will be taking a course with like-minded individuals, who are also passionate and committed to education. They will accompany you on your Vidal Sassoon journey and oftentimes become lifelong friends and invaluable contacts in the industry.

Extremely talented individuals with extensive experience and knowledge of the Vidal Sassoon proprietary methods, our Instructors are the friendliest, passionate and most patient people you will meet. They will encourage you every step of the way and work diligently to ensure you obtain the most out of your time at the Vidal Sassoon Academy.

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