she’s a crazy lady. you don’t need experience for nvq level1.
so you have any other colleges nearby? there are 2 colleges that offer nvq’s within 20mins drive from my house.
as for your reference, if you want to use your old tutor, i would approach her and tell her you want a reference and is that okay. apologise for not taking her course seriously, tell her you’ve matured and really want to make a go of things etc etc. unless she’s vindictive, she should help you out - that’s what they are there for.
but like the other poster said, you can use anyone for your reference if they are willing to help you out.
just decide what you want to do and make it your goal to get there. most hairdressing students usually work part time in a salon too. in the beginning they only wash hair and clean up but if you’re serious about it, why don’t you try and get a job in a salon as an assisstant anyways? i’m sure it will help you get on the course too.