4 of the best beauty schools in Manchester

To assist in selecting the premier beauty training academies in Manchester, the city's leading institutions have been evaluated against key criteria:

• Accreditation: Academies providing courses accredited by recognised industry bodies such as VTCT or ITEC are preferred.

• Curriculum Breadth: Priority was given to schools offering a comprehensive range of training options, from foundational beauty therapy to advanced aesthetics.

• Instructional Quality: Centres staffed by active, experienced tutors who offer hands-on, practical guidance were favoured.

• Facilities and Equipment: Training settings, cleanliness, and the availability of professional-grade tools and products were assessed.

Manchester is home to several training centres that serve as excellent pathways into the beauty and wellness sectors. Whether aiming to establish a new venture or refine a professional skillset, selecting the appropriate school is essential.

The following four beauty schools in Manchester consistently deliver high standards of education.

How much does beauty school cost in Manchester?

Enrolling in an accredited beauty academy in Manchester typically costs between £2,500 and £3,700. Tuition fees vary according to the qualification level, course duration, and whether training kits or materials are included in the price.

1. The Beauty Academy Manchester

Phone: +44 161 207 0008

Business hours:

• Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours

Website

Established in 1990, The Beauty Academy Manchester possesses extensive experience in professional beauty instruction. The academy provides a broad range of courses covering disciplines such as acrylic nail application, eyelash extensions, and advanced facials.

To maintain high teaching standards, class sizes are limited to between six and ten students, enabling tutors to offer individual guidance. The academy supplies all required training equipment on-site, and instruction is non-brand-specific, giving graduates flexibility when selecting products for their own business. Although teaching standards are highly rated, some students have reported minor scheduling or administrative delays.

Her passion for teaching and attention to detail really set this academy apart

“I recently completed four nail courses at The Beauty Academy in Manchester and couldn’t be happier with the experience. Karen is truly the best tutor - knowledgeable, patient, and incredibly supportive. She explained everything so clearly and made sure I felt confident at every step. Her passion for teaching and attention to detail really set this academy apart…”

• Iwona Gumienna, Google review

I honestly couldn’t have asked for a better tutor

“I recently completed my eyelash extensions course with Corrina at The Beauty Academy, and I honestly couldn’t have asked for a better tutor. From the very start, she made everyone feel comfortable and confident, no matter their skill level. She is extremely knowledgeable and shared so many valuable tips and tricks that you wouldn’t easily find elsewhere…”

• Bushra Habib, Google review

2. Beauty School Manchester

Phone: +44 161 302 8596

Business hours:

• Monday to Friday: 9 AM to 5 PM
• Saturday to Sunday: Closed

Website

Beauty School Manchester is characterised by a supportive and motivational learning environment. Tutors focus on helping students achieve their potential within small classes that encourage peer support and collaboration.

The academy specialises in VTCT-regulated programmes across beauty therapy, nail technology, and makeup artistry, alongside niche disciplines such as Indian head massage. For learners seeking comprehensive training, their cost-effective course packages are recommended. The facilities are modern and spacious, and a central Manchester location ensures easy access for commuters. However, some students have noted occasional administrative delays in course communications.

They genuinely care about every student’s success

“I can’t recommend this Beauty School enough! From day one, they believed in me and pushed me to reach my full potential. Their teaching style is patient, thorough, and full of encouragement. They genuinely care about every student’s success. They went above and beyond, even staying late to make sure I understood everything and felt confident…”

• Kavita M., Google review

I will be back, and strongly recommend

“I don’t often treat myself to massages/treatments, so when I do, I have high expectations. I wasn’t disappointed by either the staff or the treatments. Both the massage and the facial were carried out under the watchful eye of the tutor, who ensured the highest standards. I will be back, and strongly recommend.”

• Pete Gilmore, Google review

3. Central Manchester College of Health & Beauty

Phone: +44 161 236 7181

Business hours:

• Monday to Friday: 9 AM to 5 PM
• Saturday to Sunday: Closed

Website

Central Manchester College of Health & Beauty offers a practical learning environment for students seeking formal qualifications. The college provides a wide range of training, from entry-level certificates to advanced apprenticeships in beauty therapy, creative hair design, nail technology, and barbering.

Instruction is delivered entirely in person, ensuring students gain extensive hands-on experience under the guidance of experienced lecturers. Flexible scheduling is available, with classes running one day a week (including Sundays) to accommodate students balancing work commitments. While tuition fees reflect a premium educational standard, the comprehensive nature of the training offers excellent value.

The staff are very supportive and are always there to answer your questions

“I started my Level 3 Beauty Therapy course last year at this college. They’re located in the city centre, and the course is just one day a week, which is very convenient for me. The staff are very supportive and are always there to answer your questions or help you with any issues…”

• Uzma Nigar, Google review

Superb teaching as the lecturers make it fun

“Absolutely fantastic college. I started Sept 2016, and I was apprehensive to start the course (self-doubt), but I am so glad that I did, as I have recently started my own salon. I studied Level 2 & 3 Beauty and Level 3 Nails. Superb teaching as the lecturers make it fun, and they are very knowledgeable and always give advice to further your skills. I am so glad that I have studied here, as it has literally changed my life for the better. Cannot describe how much this college has impacted my life for the better. Take my advice and sign the dotted line and get studying, as the potential is unlimited if you put your mind to it!”

• Dean, Google review

4. Manchester Nail and Beauty Academy

Phone: +44 7731 517754

Business hours:

• Monday to Saturday: 8 AM to 10 PM
• Sunday: 10 AM to 10 PM

Website

Manchester Nail and Beauty Academy is a leading centre for specialised nail technician training. The curriculum concentrates on nail disciplines, including advanced acrylics, luxury manicures, pedicures, and detailed nail art, alongside selected beauty treatments.

Under the guidance of master educator Sarah Evans, the academy is recognised for detail-oriented instruction that merges anatomical science with practical technique. Comprehensive, multi-week courses, such as the Complete Nail Technician programme, prepare graduates for direct entry into the industry with multiple accredited qualifications. Due to the highly personalised, instructor-led nature of the academy, booking flexibility can be limited during busy periods.

Sarah helped me gain so much more knowledge about the nail industry

“Sarah was so supportive all throughout the course. I really enjoyed attending the lessons. Sarah helped me gain so much more knowledge about the nail industry and answered any questions that I had. I would really recommend the courses to anyone interested in becoming a nail technician!”

• Zara Rizwan, Google review

Thoroughly enjoyed the course and feel so motivated to continue

“I have done the nail course with Sarah, and then I just had to go back to her to do the eyebrows course. She’s a fantastic teacher, enthusiastic and has a lot of experience. She made the course fun and enjoyable, which makes you strive to want to be the best you can be. Thoroughly enjoyed the course and feel so motivated to continue on the beauty path. A massive thank you, Sarah. I can’t wait to see you again for the eyelashes course!”

• Charlotte Waythe, Google review

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