Next intake starts Sept 22nd — Limited places left.
I did 4 weeks here and didn’t want it to end!
Skilled, enthusiastic tutors and hands-on experience with different cuts in a relaxed setting. I’m leaving confident—huge thanks to Shaun, H, Josh and George!
— Alice
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London's Longest-Running Barber Academy for Aspiring Barbers
At Total Barber Academy, we turn ambition into real-world skills. Based in Shoreditch, our expert barbers teach you hands-on, blending traditional techniques with the latest trends in a fast-paced, supportive environment.
With NVQ accreditation, state-of-the-art facilities, and personal mentorship, we’ll get you job-ready in weeks — not years.
Why over 2,000 students chose Total Barber Academy
With expert tutors, hands-on training, and industry-recognised qualifications, we’ve helped thousands of aspiring barbers launch their careers.
Expert Instructors
Learn from seasoned barbers with 10+ years’ shop experience. Our tutors are working professionals who know what it takes to succeed.
Hands-On Training
Over 80% of your time is practical. You’ll master real techniques on real clients — not just mannequins — so you graduate confident, not cautious.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Train in a fully equipped barbering environment with professional-grade tools, mirroring a high-end barbershop.
Personalised Learning
Small class sizes mean more 1-to-1 attention. We adapt our training to your goals, whether you're starting fresh or refining your skills.
Industry-Ready Curriculum
Graduate with skills that employers want today. From fades and shaves to client care, our courses keep you ahead of modern trends.
Central London
A Professional Studio Built for Barbers, in London
Located just minutes from Old Street Station, our academy is purpose-built for barber training. Modern facilities, easy access, and a vibrant environment to kickstart your career.
Total Barber Academy is London’s longest-running barber school, with over 2,000 graduates and a 4.4/5 student rating. We blend old-school techniques with modern trends, so you graduate with a full grounding in barbering. Our tutors are seasoned professionals, our facilities mirror a real barbershop, and 80% of your time is spent hands-on with real clients. Add to that our relaxed, supportive atmosphere and central Shoreditch location, and you’ll see why we’re known as the “granddaddy” of barber schools.
Yes — if you put in the effort. Barbers with strong skills, a good personality, and a passion for the craft are in high demand. We have an exclusive job board just for our students, and we’re regularly contacted by barbershops looking to hire our graduates. Many students secure positions before they even finish their course. As we often say: work hard, stay passionate, and we’ll help you gain the skills to succeed.
You’ll learn from our tight-knit team of tutors who have 10+ years’ experience each working in real barbershops. They’ve been teaching together for years and know how to get the very best out of students. Expect expert guidance, personal mentorship, and a good laugh along the way.
It’s hands-on from day one. Over 80% of your time is spent cutting real hair on real clients — no endless seminars or hours on mannequins. You’ll master everything from skin fades to hot towel shaves in a professional barbershop setting, with a supportive team behind you. Training is intense but enjoyable, and many students say the atmosphere feels like a mix of hard work and fun — sometimes even ending the day with a cheeky pint.
Confidence doesn’t come overnight, but we’ll help you build it step by step. Small class sizes mean plenty of one-to-one time with tutors, and you’ll progress from guided practice to independent cutting at a pace that suits you. By the time you graduate, you’ll not only have the skills but also the self-belief to walk into a barbershop ready to work.
Most of our longer courses include NVQ accreditation, an industry-recognised qualification that proves your skills to employers. Combined with our real-world training and reputation, it gives you a strong foundation for your career.
We’re located in the heart of Shoreditch, just minutes from Old Street Station in central London. The academy is purpose-built for barber training, with state-of-the-art facilities designed to replicate a modern, professional barbershop.
We offer a range of courses depending on your goals:
Main courses (3–6 weeks) — for beginners looking to launch a career.
Short courses (1–5 days) — for barbers wanting to add specific skills like shaving or fades.
Whichever path you take, you’ll be working hands-on with clients from day one.
With our intensive full-time courses, you could be industry-ready in as little as three weeks. Many students graduate and go straight into shop work, while others continue to refine their skills with advanced or specialist courses.
No experience is required for our beginner courses. We’ll teach you everything from the basics of scissor work to advanced fades. If you already have some barbering or hairdressing background, our shorter courses can help sharpen specific skills.
We accept all major debit and credit cards through our secure checkout. Flexible finance may also be available via Klarna or Payl8r (options vary by course).
Want to know more about spreading the cost?
Get in touch with our team and we’ll talk you through the payment options available for your chosen course.
Here to help
Speak to Our Team
Whether you’re ready to enrol or just exploring your options, we’re always happy to chat. Reach us by WhatsApp, phone, or email — whichever works for you.
