Varda
Courses.

VARDA (originally Waikato School of Hairdressing) has been under the management of Deb Clark since 1991. During this time VARDA has seen many, many students through its doors and successfully out the other side working in great salons and enjoying amazing careers. Check out our range of courses below.

Hairdressing Level 3.

Hairdressing Level 3.

This Level 3 programme of study will equip learners with the knowledge and practical skills required of a level 3 hairstylist.

Emerging Stylist.

Emerging Stylist.

The Level 4 programme of study will equip learners with the knowledge and practical skills required of an Emerging stylist

Professional Stylist.

Professional Stylist.

The Level 4 programme of study for people with prior knowledge of hairstyling and colouring tasks and basic hair cutting techniques, who wish to develop skills and knowledge to become a professional hairstylist.

Commercial Barber.

Commercial Barber.

This Level 4 programme of study will equip learners with the skills and knowledge to begin working commercially in a barber shop.

Makeup Artistry.

Makeup Artistry.

This 34-week programme of study gives makeup artists the skills and knowledge to design and apply cosmetics for many makeup artist career paths ...

Makeup & Skincare.

Makeup & Skincare.

This 15 week part-time blended learning programme of study introduces people to the beauty industry. Giving learners the foundation knowledge and skills required to perform a range of makeup and skincare services.
Students are required to attend Varda Academy two days a week and complete self directed online learning.

NZ Certificate in Salon Skills Level 2

NZ Certificate in Salon Skills Level 2

This qualification will provide people interested in working in the barbering, beauty or hairdressing sector with an overview of the working ...

Gateway Programme.

Gateway Programme.

Still at school? Artistic, creative and dreaming of a career in barbering, hairdressing or beauty? These industries are an exciting place to be. You have the opportunity to make people feel good!

I’d like to say a Thank you to Deb and the whole crew at Varda. The experience I had here was amazing and I wouldn’t change it for anything. The amazing support from staff and teachers was cherished dearly by myself and I can speak on the behalf of the other students when saying this too.

Thank you to my wonderful tutor for all the one on one learning and teaching you sent my way. Without it I wouldn’t be the great barber I am today. From helping me with cutting techniques to finding me work experience you were always there for me and always put me and the other students first.”

Troy Bernhard
‘Barbering’

Coming to Varda was the best choice I made when I left High School. I’ve learnt professionalism in the Barber trade and I’ve taken it and used it as a life skill. Varda has taught me all the basics of barber skills and the tutors were supportive.

Maia Haumu

Before coming to Varda I was a stay at home mum, so this year was definitely a change for me.

When covid came around it all changed again. We did it and without the support from every single person at Varda I don't know how we would of survived the year. From other students supporting each other and cheering us all on and helping with models, to the tutors and all staff who were there helping us all achieve our goals and supporting us through our tough days too.

Also a big thank you to our tutor for your support, loyalty and guidance.

Megan Brinkworth
‘Salon Support’

To Varda, the staff and of course our amazing tutor, thank you for your endless support and overall patience throughout this course especially through the times where we couldn't see the end.

This year has been amazing working along side all of you. The amount of support and banter with each other has been incredible. I couldn’t have asked for a better group to have shared this adventure with.

Helena McKenzie
‘Emerging Stylist’

Just perfect! Tutors encouraged me and showed me a lot of new skills and found what I was good at. Varda also relaxed me before completing any assessments that were hard to achieve, helpful tutors and classmates. I started dreaming a new future here at Varda, and Varda also helped me to set my goal for next year too. Thanks, it was the best school I ever went. Miss you all.

Phoebe Choi
‘Salon Support’

“I loved studying at Varda, I loved all the tutors. They were friendly and they believe in me”.

Brittany Richardson
‘Makeup and Skin Care’

“My experience studying at Varda was absolutely amazing. It always felt like a safe learning environment and always had such a dedicated team of tutors and staff to help us with questions or problems. Walking into class always felt homely and welcoming. Our tutor was always willing to help any student and always had a boost of motivation and support to push you to succeed your goals.”

Chloe Curnow
‘Salon support’

I loved the atmosphere, everyone is always happy and all staff are so polite. I also believe that Varda has a great support system for both students and clients.

Jade Coe
‘Makeup’

Varda has helped me so much with my people skills and has made me so much more confident in myself and the things I can do. I’ve learnt a lot being here and have loved every moment of it.

Jamie Paki
‘Salon Support’

Hair and barber NZ