Introduction to Barbering

OCTOBER 7th - 11th 2026 Location - Gents Barbershop Queenstown CBD Introducing Our New Intensive “Intro to Barber” 5 Day Course. Ready to step into the world of barbering? Our brand-new 5-day intensive course is designed for absolute beginners, no experience needed. Led by experienced international educators from the award-winning Gents Academy team, this intensive 5-day program combines global expertise with real-world shop experience. You’ll train side by side with professionals who have mastered their craft across New Zealand, the UK, and beyond learning the techniques, discipline, and mindset that define modern barbering excellence. From mastering clipper and scissor control to understanding client consultation and the business side of barbering, this course builds a rock-solid foundation to kick-start your journey in the industry. From day one, you’ll be on the tools, gaining a strong foundation in both the practical and theoretical sides of barbering. You’ll learn everything from clipper and scissor techniques to client consultations and building your future clientele. Who This Course Is For ? Complete beginners Hairdressers wanting to learn barbering Makeup artists and film professionals Apprentices wanting extra training Salon stylists wanting confidence in men's hair Anyone considering a career in barbering What's Included ? 5 full days of education Small class sizes Hands-on practical learning Live demonstrations Individual coaching Course workbook Certificate of Completion Lifetime connection to Gents Academy Course Itinerary Day One: Foundations of Barbering Welcome & introductions, Health & safety, Barbering terminology, Understanding tools, Clipper theory, Head shapes, Hair growth patterns, Practical clipper work Day Two: Precision Cutting techniques Holding scissors correctly, Sectioning, Elevation, Graduation, Layering, Precision cutting, Guided practical work Day Three: Complete Haircut Systems Combining scissors & clippers, Blending techniques, Weight removal, Men's styling, Consultation skills, Full practical haircut Day Four: Fades and Finishing Taper fades, Skin fades, Soft blending, Detail work, Necklines, Beard shaping, Styling products Day Five: Day in the life of a barber, Putting It All Together Complete haircut from consultation to finish, Real-world barber workflow, Time management, Client confidence, Individual feedback, Certificate presentation What’s Included Hands-on practical training Deep dives into barbering foundation theory Clipper & Scissor technical skills Career pathway guidance Gents Academy certificate upon completion Full barber kit to take home Private hands-on mentoring Access to our exclusive Gents Academy Student Forum Student workbook Practical live model haircutting session Ticket Options Standard – $1200 Bring your own full barber kit and live model for Day Five. Comprehensive – $1400 Includes rental of a full barber kit and a supplied model. Full – $1600 Includes a complete barber kit (yours to keep) and a supplied model. Premium package – $2000 Includes a premium barber kit (yours to keep) and a supplied model. Matsui Barber Kit Includes : Neck Brush Sectioning Clips Razor & Blades Clipper Comb Cutting Comb 1 x 7” Cutting Scissor 1 x 5” Cutting Scissor Clipper Trimmer Foil Shaver Matsui Premium Barber Kit Includes : Backpack Spray Bottle Knuckle Brush Neck Brush Clipper Comb Cape Sectioning Clips Fade Brush Razor Blades 1 x 6” Cutting Scissor 1 x Thinning Scissor Scissor Case Clipper Trimmer Foil Shaver Whether you’re exploring a new career path or simply want to sharpen your skills, this is the perfect place to start your barbering journey. Frequently Asked Questions Do I need any barbering experience? No. This course is specifically designed for complete beginners. Whether you're considering barbering as a new career or simply want to learn men's haircutting, we'll teach you everything from the ground up. Can hairdressers join this course? Absolutely. Many of our students are qualified hairdressers looking to build confidence in men's haircutting, clipper work and modern barbering techniques. What tools do I need? Students will need a basic barber kit, including clippers, trimmers, scissors, combs and other essential tools. We offer optional Matsui barber kits, or you're welcome to bring your own equipment. If you're unsure whether your tools are suitable, just get in touch and we'll happily advise. Do I receive a certificate? Yes. Every student who successfully completes the course will receive a Gents Academy Certificate of Completion. Is this course hands-on? Yes. This is a practical, hands-on course. Every day combines live demonstrations with guided practical work, allowing you to immediately apply the techniques you're learning. Course is approximately 75% practical. Will I be cutting real models? Yes. Throughout the course you'll work on mannequins with the final day on live models, giving you valuable real-world experience in a supported learning environment. Is accommodation included? Accommodation is not included. Students travelling from outside Queenstown are responsible for arranging their own accommodation. We're happy to recommend nearby options if required. Can this course help me become a barber? Yes. This course provides the essential foundations of professional barbering. You'll finish with the confidence and core skills to continue your barbering journey, whether that's through an apprenticeship, employment in a barbershop, or further education with Gents Academy. How many students are in each course? To ensure every student receives individual coaching and feedback, places are intentionally limited. Small class sizes of 8 or less allow us to provide a far more personalised learning experience than larger training environments. For any questions or to register your interest, feel free to get in touch. gents.academy.co@gmail.com