The 5 best beauty schools in Manchester that deserve the spotlight
No matter how chaotic life gets, people still squeeze in a facial, a fresh manicure, or a quick refresh. So if you’ve ever thought about jumping into the beauty world, now’s probably a good time to ride that wave.
Manchester’s packed with beauty schools that make a great launchpad if you’re aiming to turn your skills into something real. Everyone prefers someone who actually knows what they’re doing, hovering near their face with tools, after all.
To make it easier for you, our group offers you a list of the best beauty schools in Manchester that we’ve come across.
How much does enrolling in a beauty school cost in Manchester?
Enrolling in a beauty school in Manchester can cost anywhere from £2,500 to around £3,700, depending on the course level and how advanced or comprehensive the training is.
1. The Beauty Academy Manchester
Address: 73-75 Lever St
Phone: +44 161 207 0008
Business hours:
- Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
The Beauty Academy Manchester has been around since 1990, which in beauty-school years basically makes them the pros. They’d teach you about acrylic nails, lash extensions, facials, and more.
Their classes are intentionally small. Six to ten students per session means you’re not fighting for your tutor’s attention.
Students consistently mentioned how knowledgeable the tutors are and how full of real-world advice they seem to be.
One person even said that the tutors didn’t move on until everyone understood the techniques. If someone was struggling, they’d also get one-to-one help until they were comfortable.
They provide everything you need on-site without forcing you into buying a pricey kit.
Their courses are also non-brand specific, which we think is great for anyone who wants flexibility when they start taking clients later on.
However, the admin side seems to be something they could improve on. We came across reports about last-minute cancellations and booking hiccups.
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
Address: 1st Floor, 7 St James’s Square
Phone: +44 161 302 8596
Business hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
Beauty School Manchester shines when it comes to motivation and support. The tutors really push you to reach your full potential.
One student on a massage course even mentioned that their small class of six really gelled from day one. They supported each other throughout, and they all passed with flying colours.
They focus on VTCT-regulated programs in beauty, nails, makeup, and more. That said, they also offer niche classes, like Indian head massage.
If you prefer a more practical, cost-effective approach, their beauty package courses are also appealing.
The facilities themselves are also polished, luxurious, and spacious. Its central location is also convenient for commuters.
On the flip side, reliability seems to be an issue for some students. There’s at least one report of lash classes being cancelled twice, and poor communication.
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
Address: 2nd Floor Colwyn Chambers, 19 York St
Phone: +44 161 236 7181
Business hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: Closed
Central Manchester College of Health & Beauty really caters to people who want a proper hands-on experience in beauty.
They cover from basic level 1 and 2 courses to apprenticeships in beauty therapy, advanced and creative hair, nail technology, and even barbering.
All the classes here are in person. Our team also noticed that students genuinely get to practice while being guided.
People kept mentioning how supportive the staff are, always ready to answer questions and offer guidance.
Location and flexibility also make the college appealing. Being in the city centre means it’s easy to get to. Classes also run just one day a week, and some are even on Sundays. It works really well if you’re juggling work or other commitments.
People said the college regularly updates courses, so if you miss a session or need to catch up, there’s almost always a chance to slot in.
The only downside we can see is the pricing. They aren’t the most budget-friendly. But considering everything that we knew, it’s worth it.
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
Address: 5 Silverbirch Way, Failsworth
Phone: +44 7731 517754
Business hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 8 AM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM – 10 PM
Manchester Nail and Beauty Academy is for anyone serious about nail care. The academy leans heavily into nail-focused training. They cover acrylics, luxury manicures and pedicures, and even intricate nail art.
Besides that, they also offer a few complementary beauty courses, like eyebrow waxing, eyelash extensions, and massage. Nail education is their sweetest spot, though.
The real strength here is Sarah Evans, the master educator, leading the academy.
According to multiple people, she breaks down techniques with detailed explanations that reference anatomy and the science behind the work.
Students—beginners and more experienced learners alike—praised her step-by-step guidance and her patience in ensuring everyone really understood each process.
The longer courses, like the 17-week or 25-week Complete Nail Technician, look pretty solid too. You come out with multiple qualifications and plenty of real-world practice, not just theory.
The downside? It’s basically a one-woman show. Amazing for consistency, not so amazing if you need flexible scheduling.
If your availability is all over the place, you might have a harder time locking in dates.
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
5. The Hair and Beauty Corner Training Academy
Address: 242 Mauldeth Rd W, Withington
Phone: +44 161 434 6583
Business hours:
- Monday: 10 AM – 4 PM
- Tuesday to Wednesday: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM – 10 PM
- Friday: 10 AM – 8 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM – 6 PM
- Sunday: Closed
The Hair and Beauty Corner Training Academy isn’t trying to be everything to everyone. They’re laser-focused on becoming the place for textured, curly, and afro hair education.
What stood out to us is how unapologetically niche they are. Their workshops go far beyond the braiding and twisting.
Students said the academy teaches the science, culture, history, and the why behind afro-textured hair. It’s a detail we don’t see often.
One person even mentioned feeling more confident not just technically, but socially and culturally, when working with diverse clients.
We also noticed students praising how thorough the assessments are. They mentioned they weren’t signed off until they met real industry standards.
Their flexible “train now, pay later” option via Kalana didn’t go unnoticed either. A few students loved that it made the courses more accessible, especially since specialised training like this can sometimes be pricey elsewhere.
However, their niche is both their greatest strength and their limitation. Apart from the textured-hair workshops, the only other course they offer is a beginner acrylic nails module.
I would highly recommend Hair and Beauty Corner Training Academy
“I would highly recommend going to do your afro texture hair styling at the Hair and Beauty Corner Training Academy, because Soraya, the tutor, provides details training. and ensure the learner has reached industry standards before issuing their certification, therefore I would recommend you book now without hesitation.”
Mini Baby, Google review
It was such a great experience with them
“Had an amazing time on the textured hair course! It was such a great experience and has really helped me further my skills for the industry! Shout out to the amazing tutor Saria as well! So helpful!”
Ethan, Google review