VTCT Skills leads the way in vocational and technical education, offering a comprehensive range of qualifications and services across 17 sectors, including Hairdressing, Beauty, Logistics, and Early Years. We work hand-in-hand with employers and training providers to ensure our qualifications, trusted by leading global brands, are tailored to meet evolving industry needs and are recognised worldwide. With a network of over 3,000 training locations, we empower over 120,000 learners each year to gain the professional skills that truly transform their lives. We simplify complexity, identifying the best routes forward for learners and centres alike.
iTEC qualifications are recognised worldwide in health, beauty, sport, and complementary therapies, unlocking international career opportunities for learners. Trusted by top hotels, spas, and cruise lines, iTEC qualifications provide the confidence and skills necessary to reach your potential. Whether you’re beginning your career or seeking to advance, iTEC is your partner for progress and growth.
In November 2024 we launched the VTCT Skills brand, bringing together the expertise and knowledge of the past 60 years together under a singular identity, looking to serve the needs of vocational education and training for years to come.
VTCT acquire Skills for Logistics, specialists in the logistics sector including expertise and sector excellence in transport, supply chain and procurement.
VTCT acquire Skillsfirst Awards adding qualifications in Functional Skills, Early Years, Health and Social Care to their qualification portfolio.
VTCT acquire Digital Assess and iTEC, adding offices in Ireland and South Africa, as well as over 200 qualifications to their portfolio. VTCT’s Technical Level Qualifications are approved for inclusion in performance tables by the Department for Education
Skillsfirst Awards Ltd registered by Myra Wall, Managing Director, achieving accreditation with Ofqual.
VTCT becomes an awarding body for NVQs in Hairdressing in order to complement its work in other sectors.
In 1986, the IHBC was formed into a national registered charity and was renamed Vocational Training Charitable Trust (VTCT)
The Institute of Sports Therapy (IIST) was established as a result of the introduction of qualifications in the field of non-medical sports therapies.
Wallace launches the first-ever beauty certificate for City & Guilds ‘Make-up and Manicure’ and in January 1975, a decision is made to separate all the examining functions of the society, giving this responsibility to a newly established organisation, the International Health and Beauty Council (IHBC)
Wallace collaborated with experts (including Dr. William Arnould-Taylor, founder of iTEC) to create a scientific syllabus for beauty and body therapy, including the development of equipment for beauty purposes.
The Arnould-Taylor examination board becomes the International Therapy Examination Council (iTEC)
Wallace Sharps starts the first UK beauty training school, known as Du Barry International. He coins the phrase ‘beauty therapy and sets up the Society of Beauticians to provide qualifications for aspiring beauticians.
