Spa industry education report - Assessing the state of spa training in Australasia
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hr careers education
Spa Industry
Education Report
Assessing the state of spa training in Australasia
The following briefings highlight some of the key themes in education that
present both challenges and opportunities, and will affect everyone who reads
this magazine in one way or another. Introduced by Kirien Withers.
The rapid emergence of the modern spa industry cosmetic medical clinics are now often rated against this new,
over recent years, both globally and locally, is mirrored only by higher expectation of what an ideal service experience can be.
the growth of the IT sector. Such rapid growth of an entirely The service standard bar has been raised.
new industry sector will naturally face staffing challenges— The delivery of a high service standard within a traditional
the skill sets required in a new service sector are obviously business model or the newer spa-style facility depends 100% on
different from those already embedded or the industry would the staff. It’s not in the gold taps and marble fixtures. Not only
not bear a ‘new’ classification. There are those who argue that are many of our industry’s staff not delivering the high service
‘spa’ is no different to ‘beauty’, but it is, or should be, very standard, many of our businesses don’t have staff! Obviously the
different—for the client. rapid introduction of a new type of business is going to encounter
If our business hangs out the spa shingle—whether our staff shortages, but we are some years down the track now. So why
service is within a resort or a stand-alone suburban business is there such a desperate shortage of sufficiently skilled staff across
(salon-like) or features a doctor performing cosmetic medical the board in beauty generally?
services—we have, globally, created the perception that when a As an industry spanning all types of service delivery from salon,
service is performed within a business that promotes itself with through spa, and into hospitality and a number of other service
the spa word, the service and the environment will be special industries, what are we doing wrong?
and the client will float out in bliss even if they are tolerating Many have opinions, and some have answers and are working
injectables or only having a wax ‘n’ tint. The experience is on strategies. At Spa Australasia we are committed to being part
expected to be different from the experience they would have of the solution, so in this edition we launch our new Human
if they called into, what they perceived to be, a standard beauty Resources, Careers and Education section, within which we will dig
salon or doctor’s clinic. into the issues and explore and encourage the solutions. In this
We all know that the reputation and marketing hype uptake first rollout we have asked industry experts to comment on their
of the word spa and the concept of spa is far bigger than the key area of expertise. It’s a wrap-up of where we are at with some
actual number of spa businesses, even in far denser populations of the key areas within our foundation—training and education.
than ours. The word spa is used to market all sorts of things— From here let’s move forward and tackle
many of which have nothing to do with the services we offer. this issue so that our industry collectively
This is because of the perception that if it is spa it must be can evolve to become its highest ideal for
special—a cut above the rest. our clients, our collective and individual
Unfortunately in many spa businesses today, of whatever style, financial security, and a highly desirable
the service on offer is definitely not a cut above the rest. This is career option for our current staff and
affecting our industry’s reputation, as our clients are not having the generations to come.
their expectations of floating out in bliss met. And it’s not only Kirien Withers is the founder and
the actual spas that are affected by all this. Because the concept publisher of Spa Australasia magazine
of spa is so desirable, beauty salons, retreats, resorts, hotels and and a spa industry consultant.
46 spa australasia
spa industry education report
Perceptions from a Newcomer
advertorial
The Art and
Transitioning from university management to spa Science of Spa &
Body Therapy
and beauty proved eye-opening for Sherelle French.
When I left my role as a General Manager at Bond University 18 months ago and
I f you are studying or teaching
a spa qualification or any
individual treatments such as
began my journey at Gold Coast Training Academy I must admit that when I met with body electricals, wraps and body
my academic and senior management friends, I would pass off what I was doing somewhat scrubs, tanning or hydrotherapy,
apologetically. Knowing little about beauty therapy but having a great love of education, I there is nothing that comes close
to The Art and Science of Spa
decided to go into the classroom and take a subject. I quickly learnt that beauty therapists are
& Body Therapy, both in terms
wonderfully gifted with their hands as well as having an amazing way of connecting with
of the content and the detailed
customers, nurturing and healing in a way traditional academics had little understanding off. treatment guides.
I realised that the students who choose this industry are truly gifted in their own way, just as It is clearly written, explaining
the medical, business and law students who walked the halls at Bond are gifted in theirs. complex subjects concisely but
It was then that I gained a real passion for the industry and set about looking at how comprehensively with images
and illustrations throughout;
I could use my own skills to make a real difference to the sector. I went out and sat with
it is structured to support the
many managers and owners of spas and salons and listened to where they felt the issues learner in their studies. As with
were. This gave me an amazing insight into what students, spas and customers were other titles in the EMS Publishing
looking for from this industry and the gaps in the training on offer. range, the book comes with access
I learnt that there were significant differences in the levels of training that therapists had to a range of online learning
resources—including step-by-step
received, that some employers invested in training and mentoring their staff and some adopted
video tutorials. These learning
a use and abuse mentality, and that most therapists never invested in their ongoing training
resources have proved extremely
themselves. I also learnt that there was very often little understanding of the fundamental popular with students and tutors
principles of business and marketing that are actually required to operate a successful business. alike and set this textbook apart
At GCTA we drew a line in the sand and decided we would commit to ensuring that from the others in the sector; there
students would only be passed when they demonstrated significant experience and quality is simply no other book like it.
What is great about The Art and
skills in all of the currently required areas of spa and beauty therapy. Our school also
Science of Spa & Body Therapy,
decided that we would be quite selective in choosing students for admission, seeking out apart from the fresh modern
those who had true passion and ambition and specifically want to study with us to achieve design and the engaging editorial
their highest possible foundation standard. tone, is that it has been produced
Our goal now at GCTA is to also roll out a series of with the student in mind.
Altogether this is a fantastically
postgraduate training seminars in conjunction with leading
powerful learning resource for
experts and to reconnect with therapists who need to update
students and lecturers alike.
their skills and knowledge, and refresh their passion. Ongoing JohnReedBooks.com.au
professional development is one of my own personal keys to (02) 9905 7801
success and I believe all therapists should continue to read,
learn and improve their skills if they want to remain relevant
and highly successful.
Sherelle French owns and operates the Gold Coast Training
Academy, a Registered Training Organisation.
Dr Nancy Lane compiled and edited this education report. She
has over 20 years experience in tertiary and adult education,
where she has initiated work placement programs and an
articulation program between the TAFE and university sectors.
She has authored numerous books, research reports, training
manuals, and journal and news articles in a range of fields,
including health, recreation, road safety, science communication
and information skills. She is currently developing and trialling
a program for women over 40 wanting to add positive, healthy
changes to their lifestyle.
spa australasia 47hr careers education
Understanding the Recent Beauty Training
Package Changes
Karen Banks from Service Skills Australia lays out the whys and wherefores of
the spa specialisation in the Diploma of Beauty Therapy and the two additional
qualifications now available.
The introduction
of new or updated
national qualifications is
a time of change for any
industry. The updates
to the national beauty
qualifications, also known
as a training package, will
provide an opportunity
to skill new therapists in
a broad range of current
industry practices and
up-skill existing therapists
in new treatment areas,
increasing professionalism
in the industry. in the spa specialisation develop knowledge for working in a
Training package qualifications identify the skills required spa environment, including planning client treatments and
to perform in particular job roles. The Beauty Training Package maintaining ongoing treatment plans. In addition to a unit on
(SIB10) consists of qualifications ranging in level from the providing a range of wet and dry spa therapies, units in stone
Certificate II to the Diploma and the new Vocational Graduate therapy massage and Indian head massage have been added to
Certificate. Each level describes different job roles in the the specialisation.
beauty, spa, nails and aesthetics industry (these are listed on the Two new qualifications have been developed to support
training.gov.au website). growing areas in the industry and to provide therapists with
The updated national training framework includes a range an opportunity to train in nationally recognised post-graduate
of new units to address current industry practices, as well as two qualifications. The Diploma of Salon Management (SIB50210)
new qualifications. The content of both the Certificate IV in focuses on business and management skills in the industry and
Beauty Therapy (SIB40110) and the Diploma of Beauty Therapy provides training in human resources, team leadership, marketing
(SIB50110) has been strengthened and expanded to include and financial and business practices specifically for a beauty or
training in cosmetic tanning, microdermabrasion and intimate hairdressing environment.
waxing, to focus the qualification on the technical skills required The introduction of the Vocational Graduate Certificate in
to be a therapist. Intense Pulsed Light and Laser Hair Reduction (SIB70110)
Employers in the beauty and spa industry look for builds on existing state-accredited courses to form a national
therapists who have been trained in either the Certificate IV qualification. Training for this qualification in light-based
or the Diploma, with graduates of these qualifications then therapies includes how to use the modalities and important theory
applying what they have learned to the spa environment. By that underpins its safe use.
increasing the existing two spa units to five units, budding Karen Banks is a Senior Project Officer
therapists have the opportunity to specialise in spa therapies in the Training Package Development
for the first time. and Quality team at Service Skills
This specialisation is available in the Diploma of Beauty Australia, the government-funded
Therapy and complements the broad range of skills required Industry Skills Council for the service
of a therapist. The core units consist of body massage, body industries. She is responsible for the
treatments, facials, waxing and the science-based disciplines— development and maintenance of the
anatomy and physiology, skin biology, nutrition and cosmetic Beauty Training Package.
chemistry—that are fundamental to therapists. The five units serviceskills.com.au
48 spa australasiaspa industry education report
advertorial
Resorts Aren’t Just for Holidays for
William Angliss Institute Spa Students
T raining in spa operations goes
far beyond learning how to give
treatments, as Lauren Hudson, spa
trainer at William Angliss Institute,
will tell you, and a well-rounded
qualification from the Institute’s
Melbourne or Sydney campuses
can lead to a world of opportunities.
“Many employment opportunities in
the spa industry require graduates
with an understanding of business,
which is why the Diploma of Resort
Management – Spa was created—to
equip students with well-rounded
skills to manage a wellness facility,
spa or resort,” says Lauren.
Hospitality training as part of the
program incorporates Responsible
Service of Alcohol, Workplace Hygiene
and Food & Beverage Service, while
“I think the most valuable part
of studying this course has been
coming away with such a vast range of
skills,” says Sarah. “The management
training combined with the practical
spa training opens up more than just
one avenue for me to choose from
when it comes to my career. This
makes me feel confident in myself
and the value of what I can offer to
future employers. It’s for that reason
that I recommend studying at William
Angliss Institute, not to mention the
core study areas of management studies is closely linked with opportunities that are on offer—like
and resort operations cover HR, industry. William Angliss Institute the Maldives!”
leadership, marketing, safety has been working closely with Li’Tya The recent opening of the Angliss
and risk, property management, for six years and spa students Industry Training Centre in Surry
budgeting and financial operations graduate well versed in Indigenous Hills, NSW, now means that the
and business legal knowledge. and wellness training including Diploma of Resort Management –
In addition, the spa specialisation nutrition knowledge for a complete Spa can be studied in Sydney and
provides students with quality holistic understanding. Students also Melbourne. Students won’t have to
training in spa operations, providing learn the finer points of body wraps, wait until graduation to get a taste of
an in-depth knowledge of the industry, salt scrubs, body wraps, facials and the idyllic locations spa careers can
consumer and expertise for five-star foot treatments. offer, either, with a national study
end-to-end spa treatment. The combination of established tour taking them to Queensland to be
Spa training as part of the Diploma industry partners and a dedicated immersed in the industry and further
of Resort Management – Spa covers: resort industry placement officer their development.
• Spa Operations assists graduates in securing Places in the course for 2012 are
• Science employment when they complete still available.
• Facials their studies. In the last few months, angliss.edu.au/resorts
• Massage students Sarah Clarke and Lauren
• Aromatherapy Burton have secured placements at
• Manicures and Pedicures Conrad Maldives Rangali Island and
The one-of-a-kind course providing graduate Marae Beltrame will be
spa therapies training in conjunction using her skills at The Waldorf Astoria
with hospitality and management Beach Hotel, Maldives, Modus Spa.
spa australasia 49hr careers education
Education and Accreditation in New Zealand
While Australian educators and employers come to terms with the changes to the
beauty package, in New Zealand the Hairdressing Industry Training Organisation
(HITO) has taken on administration of the equivalent courses, report Felicity
Turner and Maria Hyde-Smith.
In New Zealand, HITO (hito.org.nz) has recently taken training institutes in that city and the sector there will be
over the administration and authorisation of beauty training severely impacted for some time.
courses, though the New Zealand Qualifications Authority AUT University offers three theoretical (degree level) papers
(nzqa.govt.nz) still regulates accreditation of training relevant to the industry: International Spa Contemporary Issues
providers. Training providers generally award a National (updated annually), Wellness Tourism (focusing on international
Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) Level 4 markets and offerings) and International Spa Management and
or 5 on graduation (depending of the accredited level of the Design (mainly for people wanting to manage spa facilities).
provider). Similar to Australia, many training organisations These papers are open to students studying Business, Tourism,
offer concurrent international qualifications such as CIBTAC, Hospitality and Health Science degrees as well as industry
CIDESCO or ITEC. professionals who want to keep up with global industry trends.
At present, New Zealand does not have academically The University has also set up a Wellness and Spa discipline area
recognised qualifications specifically for spa; however, a number within the New Zealand Tourism Research Institute.
of private schools run spa courses—such as Elite College Felicity Turner is a Course Tutor – Spa Therapies in the Faculty
(Hamilton) and Eastern Institute of Technology (Napier)— of Health and Sports Science at Eastern Institute of Technology
which can be completed alongside beauty or massage therapy Napier. Maria
qualifications, or by students with prior training. Hyde-Smith is
In a recent update to the requirements of the New Zealand a Programme
Massage Association, members must now supply proof of Leader and
continuing professional development including practical training Senior Lecturer
sessions, which will likely be a boost for independent massage in the Faculty
training providers (though association membership is not a of Health and
requirement to practice). Environmental
The majority of New Zealand’s training courses in spa Sciences at
treatments are offered in Auckland and provided by product AUT University,
suppliers. The Christchurch earthquake badly affected all Auckland.
Gaining Experience: On-the-job Training
With a general decline in spa and beauty traineeships, educators are finding new
ways to ease the transition between school and work. By Dr Nancy Lane.
Many students hone the basic techniques of massage business to real customers (who are aware that it is a student spa
and beauty therapy by practicing on each other, but too often on those days) with a streamlined discount menu. The students
this is the only prep they receive before launching into their first run the show—as the therapists, reception staff and spa manager.
job—a nerve-wracking leap for many graduates, and possibly part Lauren Hudson, the program coordinator, explains that
of the cause of the high attrition rate for industry newcomers. students undertake this internship as a non-compulsory six-week
Well-known hospitality school William Angliss Institute has course add-on to the Diploma Resort Management—Spa. She
partnered with Hilton Worldwide as the training provider for says that the students gain a hands-on understanding of taking
the hotel chain’s new Eforea spas that are rolling out around the and confirming bookings, allocating treatment rooms, developing
world. The relationship between Hilton and William Angliss retailing skills, and handling and learning from guest feedback.
Institute sees the Eforea Spa at Hilton on the Park in Melbourne They learn ‘nuts and bolts’ operations in depth, as well as gaining
turn into a training spa two days per week. On Mondays the spa a management perspective, such as understanding the costs
is used for product and operational training. Tuesdays it opens for involved in treatments and wages.
50 spa australasiaspa industry education report
Rebekah Osborne completed the student spa commitment this year during her final term. advertorial
“It’s a very different experience to work with real customers, rather than other students,” she Stone Eagle and
says. “We do everything from greeting guests when they arrive to offering them drinks after ScenStone Therapy
T
treatment. Now I feel much more confident about what to expect when I join the workforce.”
he benefits of professional
Tasmanian beauty school Papillon and Victoria’s South West TAFE both work with
training in stone massage
Melannie Burgess-Pook, founder of Melle Beauty, to give students work experience are many and varied. Being able
opportunities at The Health Spa at Barnbougle Lost Farm. Earlier this year, Kate Smith to deliver world-class therapies
and Grace Rayner, students in the Diploma of Beauty Therapy at South West TAFE, spent to your client is the foundation
two weeks on work placement at the Tasmanian spa as a prize awarded by Verdé Hair and of success. A satisfied client will
be a return client and a walking
Beauty Evolution. There they gained an understanding of administration, client interaction,
advertisement for your business.
housekeeping and the spa’s specific treatment protocols. Equally important is the
“This experience was challenging and rewarding and a learning curve that we will not therapist’s wellbeing. Proper
forget,” says Kate. “Being a spa therapist is not just about performing massage and facials; it’s training instils confidence and skill
about adjusting to different customer needs and understanding the operation of a spa.” into their therapies. Knowing where
and how to use stone tools properly
will allow the therapist much
Checklist for Hosting Interns enjoyment and competence in their
treatments and will also benefit
work placements are good for • Familiarise them with your facilities and
their hands. This also translates
the industry, but do require management forms, product manuals, spa guidelines
into radical savings for both
commitment. Follow this checklist to and other operational documents.
therapists and employers as healthy
ensure a positive experience for both spa • Appoint a mentor from among senior staff. and fit therapists are able to work
and student: • Document a daily or weekly timetable. more efficiently and better than
• Explain your vision, goals, philosophy of • Review progress & give formal feedback. injured or tired employees. This is
customer service and ethics. • Provide a statement of experience. especially true for the self-employed.
By training with ScenStone
Therapy (which exclusively uses
Stone Eagle Handcrafted Massage
Next Steps: Becoming an Educator Stones), therapists will discover the
significant ergonomic, thermal and
hygienic advantages of Stone Eagle
Quality educators are vital to those coming up through handcrafted Australian granite
massage stones. These beautiful
the ranks of the spa industry writes Victoria Allpress. massage stones offer the superior
alternative to traditional porous
Spa therapists who are deeply invested in their work and the future of the beauty
basalt pebbles and stones. With
and spa industry may find that becoming an educator offers exciting new challenges and a lifetime warranty, any initial
opportunities to give back by inspiring the next generation of therapists. difference in price soon becomes
To become an educator or trainer in a TAFE or private beauty therapy college, or a insignificant. ScenStone Therapy
brand educator for a product company, requires a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment can also provide teacher training.
Colleges and TAFEs able to
(TAE40110). This course covers the practical competencies required for teaching, including
purchase fully compliant training
designing learning programs and presentations, planning assessment activities and processes
resources, including teacher
and mentoring. There are more than 700 registered training organisations (RTOs) across and student manuals for the
Australia that offer this qualification, many of them online. (Search on training.gov.au.) Stone Massage modality from
By completing the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, therapists can teach Allowe Training Resources.
national training package units in areas they hold qualifications. As a brand educator, the Allowe Training Resources has
worked with ScenStone Therapy
focus is on training therapists in product ranges and retail techniques.
and Stone Eagle to create these
Salaries for spa and beauty therapy educators vary according to resources, which include 8 videos
qualifications and experience, and between TAFE, private colleges for the new unit SIBBSPA504A
and large or small businesses. Therapists or managers wishing to Provide stone therapies massage.
transition into education may have the opportunity to develop their For Australia’s finest massage
stones and equipment contact, Stone
skills within their current workplace by supporting the team to
Eagle Handcrafted Massage Stones.
improve standards or prepare for international accreditation.
stone-eagle.com, 1800 504 886
An educator’s number one quality for success is a love of beauty
and spa therapy and a burning desire to share it with others.
Victoria Allpress is a spa and beauty business developer, coach,
trainer, author and consultant. beautycoachconnect.com.au
spa australasia 51hr careers education
Educate In-House: Become a Training Spa with
International Accreditation
Spas looking to offer an incentive with punch can become training spas—providing
learning and teaching opportunities for staff, writes Rachel Moran.
Whether we’re talking day spas, destination spas or medispas,
there are serious shortages of qualified staff in the industry. Many Qualifying Bodies
spa owners and managers realise that they need to provide training
opportunities for staff to both retain them and expand their skill set. • CIDESCO (Comité International d’Esthétique et de
One way in which employers can offer employees incentivised Cosmétologie) is based in Zurich, Switzerland, and
training and feel confident about the standard of learning is to is represented in 36 countries in over 230 schools. It
facilitate an internationally accredited qualification in-house—and it’s provides accreditation in the areas of beauty therapy, spa,
easier to achieve than you may think. aromatherapy and epilation. cidesco.com
International qualification providers such as CIDESCO, • CIBTAC (Confederation of International Beauty
CIBTAC and ITEC offer qualifications that are recognised around Therapy & Cosmetology) was established in 1977 as
the world. ITEC and CIDESCO were both founded over 60 years the education arm of the British Association of Beauty
ago and CIBTAC more than 30 years ago. These qualifications are Therapy & Cosmetology. This not-for-profit organisation
at the forefront of advancing technologies and industry trends, and began by offering traditional beauty therapy education
are highly desired by employers around the globe. but its portfolio now includes spa, wellbeing, diet and
Most established spa and beauty therapy schools are registered nutrition, sports therapy and other complementary and
with one or more of these international bodies—generally, holistic therapies. cibtac.com
students sit an additional exam to receive their certification. • ITEC (International Therapy Examination Council) has
However, spas wishing to offer accredited in-house training can recently established a presence in Australia. It offers a full
also register with any of the training organisations. Provided it range of qualifications from introductory to post-graduate
meets the relevant requirements, a spa can be recognised as a level in beauty and complementary therapies; spa-specific
training spa that offers international qualifications (which does qualifications for concierge and management roles;
not entail being an Australian government registered training and, in the growth area of medical aesthetics, advanced
organisation). The awarding body provides all the support and skincare, microdermabrasion, IPL and laser for hair
information needed to set up training, including textbooks and removal and skin rejuvenation. itecworld.co.uk
online learning that support the qualifications.
advertorial
Business Mentoring & Coaching
O ne of the most important
intentions in business, even in a
passion-based business
For over 40 years, beauty industry
business coach and mentor Caroline
Nelson has devoted
by all beauty businesses have been
thoroughly tested and proven and
packaged in such a way that is easy
like a spa, is to make her career to building to implement and quickly delivers
profit. And yes, you profits for salon and exceptional results. Wherever you need
can make money while spa businesses. Her to improve develop and increase your
making your clients business coaching and business she has the expertise and
happier, but in order mentoring has helped tools to make the process stress-free.
to keep changing and hundreds of spa owners So if you want to get your business
improving, you need to adapt their businesses and marketing mojo working for you
be financially successful. to improve productivity visit her website to learn more about
This is part of the and operational Caroline’s step-by-step program for
holistic business model systems as well as spa success, and to sign up for her
spa industry expert increase retail sales and FREE e-Book Salon Spa Money
Caroline Nelson helps bottom-line profits. Her Making Secrets.
owners and managers workable solutions to SalonSpaBusiness.com,
achieve. the challenges faced 0410 600 440
52 spa australasiaspa industry education report
advertorial
For a spa operator, the double bonus is that while junior
staff gain accredited continuing education, senior staff get
recognition of the value of their skills and have the chance to
continue to grow their careers as educators, without leaving
H
the business.
ot stone massage has
Rachel Moran has 10 years experience in education, with the
evolved. We supply bamboo,
last four years at the ITEC London Head Office. She is now hot stone, seashell and crystal
based in Sydney as the Administrative and Development massage kits with easy-to-
Manager for the ITEC Asia-Pacific region. learn training for the massage,
beauty and medical industry
internationally.
We have created a modality
using traditional healing
Inspiring Best Team Dynamics techniques and tailored a kit
and training package to suit
modern spa, massage and beauty
Technical skills are only one part of the equation of treatments. This modality began
memorable spa services—therapists’ abilities to connect in Australia and has spread
through Europe, UK, Hong Kong,
with clients and handle the complex emotions that can US, Canada, Oman, Istanbul, India,
China, Malaysia, New Zealand,
arise in the safe environment of the spa take another Colombia, Bali, the Philippines,
skill set completely. Margie Braunstein describes a Ireland, Italy and Dubai.
We offer affordable in-house
new course from Quest For Life that addresses this and correspondence training,
tailored to suit your business. This
component of staff education. method of training encompasses
all modalities of beauty and
Many of you will have experienced Petrea King’s work and wisdom within the spa massage, so if you are a beauty
industry through an Aspa Conference, the Sydney International Spa & Beauty Expo or therapist; remedial, deep tissue or
relaxation massage practitioner;
this magazine.
reflexologist; or holistic healer, we
This year, in consultation with spa and wellness industry luminaries, Petrea’s Quest for have a package that will suit you.
Life foundation is launching the Quest for Wellness Events—a series of workshops created Our clients include independent
specifically for spas, retreats, resorts and wellness centres to present for their clientele, therapists, international spa
facilitated by regular Quest presenters. groups, salons and universities.
You will deal with experienced
A key element of the series is the Quest for Wellness Team Seminars. These workshops,
practitioners who offer affordable
which can be presented in spas or as a component of training courses will assist spa staff and and practical options. Our kits and
independent therapists or practitioners to further develop their ability to: training methodologies are of the
• Centre themselves and connect with the client; highest quality, with a certificate
• Work together respectfully and supportively; of completion.
• Manage personal life challenges and maintain inner peace; Our training packages include
top quality kits. Our massage
• Practice high quality self-care and regular relaxation;
stones—basalt, green jade, white
• Achieve job satisfaction and a sense of fulfilment; and marble, blue pearl and crystals—
• Respond to clients’ emotional needs graciously and constructively. are of the highest standard and
These abilities contribute profoundly to ensuring that guests have an optimal created by master craftsmen. Our
experience; that therapists have the skills to deal with a broad bamboo is organically treated,
hygienic, easy to clean and
array of clients’ needs as they arise; and that the business enjoys
grown specifically for massage in
the benefits of a relaxed, centred and emotionally balanced team. beautiful Byron Bay. A professional
Margie Braunstein has been a professional facilitator for over 20 hydroponics manufacturer
years. She trained under Petrea King to deliver teachings that specifically designs our bamboo
have inspired and helped thousands of people around Australia. heating pads for bamboo massage.
Margie will facilitate the first of these workshops, which will be Our pads are never hot to the touch
however they generate enough
presented by Phyt’s Ethical Business Seminars and the Quest for
heat for hot stone massage.
Life Foundation on 7 November at the Phyt’s training rooms in St massagekits.com.au,
Leonards, NSW. For more information or to book, call 1300 656 627. 07 5598 6948
spa australasia 53hr careers education
Next Steps: Advanced Dermal Therapies
Senior spa and beauty therapists naturally want to achieve more results for their
clients, and one way they can do this is through a deeper knowledge of skin physiology
as well as the use of light-based therapies and more potent formulations. Here April
Jorgensen of AACDS discusses the continuing education options available.
With the merging of the medical and beauty professions and
the rapid development of new cosmetic procedures and equipment, Currently there are few advanced dermal
formal education qualifying professionals specifically in this field has therapies courses in Australasia. Victoria University offers
also matured. There are now courses available to students who are a Bachelor of Health Science (Dermal Therapies), the only
seeking a strong grounding in advanced dermal therapies that will degree-level dermal therapies course offered by an English-
language university in the world, an Associate Degree in
equip them to work in a medispa or skincare clinic. The enrolment
Dermal Therapies (vu.edu.au).
options vary depending prerequisites of the course.
The Advanced Diploma of Cosmetic Dermal Science is a
combination of dermal science, enrolled nursing and medical assisting The Vocational Graduate Certificate in Cosmetic Nursing is
units relating to cosmetic medicine and dermal therapies. The a postgraduate course specifically for enrolled or registered nurses
curriculum covers key competencies required to work as a dermal wishing to enter the field of cosmetic medicine. This 16-week full-
therapist within a cosmetic medical practice, performing dermal time government-accredited qualification provides students with
therapy procedures, assisting medical personnel with cosmetic the knowledge and hands-on skills required to work in a cosmetic
surgical and non-surgical procedures and providing practice and medical practice or accredited day hospital performing cosmetic
patient management. The typical admission requirements for this nursing, dermal therapies and injectable procedures.
course are completion of year 12, mature-age entry or a Certificate The Vocational Graduate Certificate in Dermal Therapies
IV or Diploma in Beauty Therapy. The course is 18 months full-time (Cosmetic Medical Stream) provides medical practitioners
or three years part-time, which can be studied online with blocks of with the skills and knowledge to pursue a career as a cosmetic
in-person practical training and assessment. Additionally, completion physician while supervising non-medical staff. Theory-based
will give credit in an enrolled and registered nursing course. units encompassing both surgical and
The Vocational Graduate Certificate in Dermal Therapies non-surgical cosmetic procedures are
(Allied Health/Beauty Stream) is a government-accredited graduate supported by practical competencies in
course for candidates from an allied health or beauty background. It dermal therapies and cosmetic injectables.
provides students with skills to work as a qualified dermal therapist, April Jorgensen is the owner and
establish their own clinic or add dermal therapy procedures to their director of Australasian Academy of
current scope of practice. The prerequisites for this 16-week full-time Cosmetic Dermal Science (AACDS),
course are the Certificate IV or Diploma of Beauty Therapy or a which she opened in Perth in 2004. She
Diploma minimum within a health-related field. The majority of the teaches units in dermal science theory
units are online, with 10 to 14 days in person. and practice. aacds.edu.au
Keeping Up With Technology: Laser and IPL
The last 10 years has brought an explosion of light-based technologies in the
aesthetic industry. Vera Koslova-Fu from Victoria University describes some of the
courses now focused on this competency.
In the mid to late 1990s, Intense Pulse Light (IPL) machines delivered to tissue it is absorbed by certain targets that go through a
entered the market and began to be used by operators without specific process of change. The beauty industry uses phototherapy for a wide
medical training. Although laser (light amplification of stimulated range of applications: hair and pigmentation reduction, vascular
emission of radiation) has been around for much longer, it’s only in disorders and tightening and resurfacing of tissue.
the last decade that these tools have been operated by therapists. As this equipment has become more available, courses have been
IPL and laser work on the same principle: when light energy is devised to provide specialist training in its use. There are many
54 spa australasiaspa industry education report
types of courses available to therapists who wish to use laser and IPL. Prerequisites range advertorial
from nil to the Diploma of Beauty Therapy.
The Bachelor of Health Sciences – Dermal Therapies includes four laser-specific units
over four semesters comprising in-depth study of laser physics, safe operation, compliance
to Australian standards and clinical application. Also covered is the use of low-level laser
V
therapy for pre- and post-operative care to assist wound healing, skin regeneration and pain erdé Hair and Beauty
management. Each unit requires in-person attendance, providing the opportunity to develop Evolution, located in
hands-on skills. Advanced diploma and graduate certificate dermal therapy courses contain southwest Victoria, is South
general laser units with other dermal-specific units. West TAFE’s innovative hair and
beauty training facility, providing
With the new beauty training package, more providers are offering the Vocational
state-of-the-art equipment for
Graduate Certificate in Intense Pulsed Light and Laser Hair Reduction. This covers laser
students in training, and fully
physics, safety and specific clinical applications to hair reduction using both IPL and laser. functional beauty treatment and
Most equipment suppliers offer detailed product-specific education that also encompasses hairdressing salons open to the
some basic laser physics and clinical indications but predominantly focuses on the safe general public.
recommended parameters of the individual machine. The depth of information varies, In 2012, a new beauty training
package will be introduced
depending on the supplier and the trainer’s educational background.
which incorporates spa training,
Vera Koslova-Fu’s educational specialty is in all aspects of laser and light-based with students graduating as
modalities. She currently teaches at Victoria University, Melbourne. vu.edu.au qualified spa therapists. Courses
are designed to develop skills,
Some schools have a specific focus on light-based protocols—for example the enhance career opportunities and
provide graduates with nationally
Australian Institute of Laser Therapy in Melbourne (ailt.com.au) or Laser Therapy &
recognised qualifications.
Natural Medicine Sydney (lasertherapycentre.com.au).
Verde’s beauty therapy courses
provide strong links to industry,
with networking nights, awards
ceremonies and competitions held
Continuous Learning: Advanced throughout the year.
Sustainability is also embraced
Professional Development in all courses with students
educated on the sustainable
It’s essential for professionals at any stage in their career philosophies in the developing
spa industry.
to keep learning. Attending seminars and conferences “2012 promises to be an exciting
time,” says Gill Kirby, Verdé Beauty
provides broad opportunities to stay abreast of industry Therapy Coordinator. “Our students
will be learning new spa industry
and business best practice. Here are just a few of the standards while working with the
professional development opportunities on offer. latest spa technology.”
Training is provided
Cosmoprof Asia: For spa professionals seeking to build a business profile in Asia or across a wide range of spa and
beauty techniques including
get a high-level look at global spa business practices, the Spa Conference at Cosmoprof Asia
spa packages, aromatherapy
(Hong Kong, 9 to 11 November) focuses specifically on the management and development treatments, hydrotherapy, hot
of spa businesses. Highlights include seminars on wellness trends in India and the growth of and cold stone massage, Indian
the medispa category throughout Asia. Two sessions will discuss cultural understanding and head massage, Shirodhara and
product customisation for the Chinese cosmetic market and explain the newly introduced combining infra-red sauna with
lymphatic drainage massage.
government cosmetic regulations. Industry pros interested in the Japanese market will get a
Students have the opportunity
sound grasp of the current situation and future prospects around beauty and wellness there
to visit a local spa with natural
through case studies of successful products and facilities. thermal waters, giving them
The blockbuster of the conference will be the panel of top spa operators discussing how an understanding of thermal
they’ve pushed boundaries in design, treatment and management. Panelists include industry hydrotherapy.
heavyweights Barry White (Group Director of Spa, Chuan Spa, Langham Hospitality Students who excel in their
studies may have the opportunity
Group, Hong Kong), Kirsty MacCormick, (Corporate Director of Spa, ONYX Hospitality
to undertake exclusive work
Group, Thailand), Sean O’ Connor (Group Spa Manager – Design & Development, experience at the prestigious
Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Hong Kong) and Vanessa Main (Director of Spa Barnbougle Lost Farm Resort
Development & Operations – Asia Pacific, Hilton Worldwide, Singapore). in Tasmania.
Continued page 56 swtafe.edu.au, 1300 648 911
spa australasia 55hr careers education
Continued from page 55
Of course the trade show floor, with hundreds of exhibitors, comparing notes with industry peers. You don’t have to be an
will provide demonstrations of product ranges and equipment in a Aspa member to attend, either. aspaassociation.com.au
range of categories.
cosmoprof-asia.com Sydney International Spa & Beauty Expo:
Though it’s already come and gone this year, the expo is worth
Aspa Spa Seminars: Info events put on by the association marking on your calendar (11 to 12 August, 2012) as a source of
have been held in most Australian states with more to follow top expertise from our region and beyond. If you’re not already
around the country and in New Zealand. The seminars feature signed up for their enewsletter, do it now to take advantage of
speakers from a range of industries and are hosted at a spa. early-bird discounts on education seminars for next year.
Drinks and nibbles help the evening segue into networking and internationalbeautyexpo.com.au
Specialist Training for Spa Managers:
Benefiting the industry and the individual
Managers have extensive responsibilities, from handling employee relations
to making sure the business remains profitable, as well as ensuring the guest
experience. Though they may like to think so, managers aren’t necessarily perfect,
which is where management training comes in, writes Bryan McGoldrick of
William Angliss Institute.
Senior staff need to step back from ‘business as usual’ implementation and review of the strategic business plan’). It is
to not only learn new skills and brush up on techniques, but also presented over nine months and incorporates both online training
assess current practices. Facilitated management training provides and two intense (9-day and 7-day) on-site trainer instruction
the structure to do this constructively and guide managers workshops. The first group of 15 students commenced in June.
through the process. For an individual, refresher courses broaden Due to the nature of the spa industry, the course caters to
business skills and can enhance commitment and passion. The managers with significant industry experience but who lack
best outcomes occur when managers are empowered to then formal qualifications and therefore some of the broader business
implement new practices they have learned and facilitate in-house concepts and more complex management knowledge and skills.
training to ensure all staff have the skills to meet those standards. A key component of the course is an advanced ‘train-the-
These are some of the reasons why William Angliss Institute trainer’ concept so that students develop the capabilities to train
(WAI) has expanded delivery of its spa training programs to offer staff members.
the government-accredited Graduate Certificate in Management— From an organisational standpoint, investing in training—
Spa. This course, which specialises in spa operations, was whether it is delivering a tailored course in the workplace or
developed in consultation with the Hilton group in Southeast Asia sending individual employees to undertake qualifications that
to provide the chain’s spa managers with customised training. will broaden their current knowledge base or prepare them
“Like any tourism or hospitality business, the ultimate success for a promotion—adds value to both the company and the
of a spa venture depends on its people,” says Tyra Lowman, employee. When companies invest in their employees, the
Hilton Worldwide Senior Director Spa Brands, Full Service and employees feel valued, so staff morale
Luxury Brands. “The spa teams are so excited—they see that they and retention also improve—ensuring
have the opportunity with Hilton for career development.” positive outcomes continue beyond the
The partnership sees Hilton’s spa managers from across training experience.
Southeast Asia undertake training with WAI’s specialised Bryan McGoldrick is Director of
staff. The course provides generalist management training Angliss National, William Angliss
contextualised around the Hilton brand. The course is Institute. Established in 1940, William
being delivered under the overarching themes of innovation Angliss Institute is a training provider
(‘Lead innovative thinking and practice in an organisational specialising in the food, tourism and
environment’) and strategy (‘Manage the development, hospitality sector. angliss.edu.au
56 spa australasiaspa industry education report
The Role of the Business Mentor and Coach
In the current economy, many managers are facing challenges they’ve never
experienced before. Caroline Nelson explains how a business coach can
introduce new skills and help managers implement them, as the need arises.
Spa directors, and especially owners, often feel isolated identify the key issues requiring support and then develop strategies
with no one to turn to for support and advice. In fact, some are to overcome challenges, create stability and increase profits.
leaving the spa industry because they’re finding that reaching Working together, the mentor and owner or manager will
their targets is becoming overwhelmingly difficult. implement business methods that have been well proven through
It’s worth considering that most professional athletes likely long-term industry application. They will collaborate to improve staff
would never have reached their level of success without the productivity and customer service, which in turn increases retail sales
supportive guidance of their coach. In business it’s exactly the and ensures client loyalty and retention.
same—those who stay the distance and do well inevitably have a A good business mentor has a variety
mentor and coach with knowledge of the industry who helps to of resources that will make the spa
get the business running at peak performance while honing and manager’s daily business life and goals
sharpening the manager’s business skills. much easier to achieve. A mentor should
A business mentor’s role is to support the time-poor manager with be viewed as part of a manager’s continuing
industry-tested systems that can be quickly and easily implemented. education in business development.
But first he or she needs to assess the overall performance of the Caroline Nelson is business coach
business—this is an objective ‘health check’ of the business’s current specialising in spa and beauty.
weaknesses and strengths. From this assessment, the mentor will salonspabusiness.com
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