Scottish training centre launches spa traineeship programme to help combat employment crisis

BABTAC & CIBTAC Training Centre of the Year 2022, 2023 and 2024, The Academy, Glasgow, has launched Scotland’s first spa traineeship programme, in partnership with the Crerar Hotel Group.

The traineeship delivers CIBTAC Level 2 Facial Skincare and Level 3 Body Massage qualifications. “The traineeship combines immersive on-site training at The Academy, where students engage in intensive practical sessions with live models and interactive theory lessons to bolster knowledge retention, with hands-on experience at their respective spa workplaces,” share Kate Berry and Jenny Storey, directors at The Academy, and of Urban Retreat salon.

Kate Berry & Jenny Storey, directors at The Academy, Scotland & Urban Retreat, Glasgow

“At the spas, trainees follow individual learning plans under the mentorship of seasoned professionals, who provide guidance and supervision during practice.” Two options are offered within the traineeship. Accelerator includes in-house practical training, online theory and in-spa mentorship, and is ideal for those who seek a fast-paced, immersive experience.

The Nurture package is for individuals who may need more support. It includes weekly check-ins, where students can work with a tutor on theory sessions, or showcase their practical abilities either in person or through Teams video calls.

“At The Academy, we aim to prove that beauty professionals can excel and make significant strides in their careers through education and innovation.”

Kate and Jenny created the traineeship programme to ‘combat the current employment crisis’. “Our mission has always been to offer contemporary, industry-leading education that holds real value,” Jenny shares. “We’re determined to challenge the misconception that beauty professionals lack academic ability.”

Since the launch of the spa traineeship programme in 2023, The Academy has supported the training and employment needs of spa destinations and groups including Trump Turnberry, Archerfield, Blythswood Square, MacDonald Hotels and Skibo Castle. “We ensure that the delivery is fit for purpose,” Jenny continues. “This enables hotels to employ novices in their spas, while providing them with specialised training in CIBTAC Level 2 Facial Skincare and Level 3 Body Massage.

“We recognise that spas often prioritise specific skillsets over comprehensive beauty qualifications, and our programme allows employers to further enhance their trainees’ expertise through advanced courses upon successful completion.”

To support autonomous learning, trainees have access to The Academy’s online platform, which offers comprehensive materials and structured deadlines for mock assessments. This preparation culminates in a return to The Academy after 12 weeks for a summative examination conducted by a certified CIBTAC examiner.

“This innovative approach ensures that trainees receive a balanced education, combining theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and real-world experience, effectively preparing them for successful careers in the beauty and wellness industry.”

Melanie McKenzie, spa manager of Archerfield, says of the traineeship: “After struggling with recruitment post-Covid, we enrolled three candidates onto the programme. They came back from The Academy armed with the skills and knowledge they will need to have successful careers in the spa industry. The are enthusiastic, confident, excited to learn and embrace all things spa.

“My advice to anyone finding recruitment tough is to speak to Jenny and Kate!”

For more information about the spa traineeship programme, visit www.the-academy.co.uk