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spa industry education report

Assessing the state of spa training in AustralasiaThe 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 over recent years, both globally and locally, is mirrored only by the growth of the IT sector. Such rapid growth of an entirely new industry sector will naturally face staffing challenges—the skill sets required in a new service sector are obviously different from those already embedded or the industry would not bear a ‘new’ classification. There are those who argue that ‘spa’ is no different to ‘beauty’, but it is, or should be, very different—for the client.

If our business hangs out the spa shingle—whether our service is within a resort or a stand-alone suburban business (salon-like) or features a doctor performing cosmetic medical services—we have, globally, created the perception that when a service is performed within a business that promotes itself with the spa word, the service and the environment will be special and the client will float out in bliss even if they are tolerating injectables or only having a wax ‘n’ tint. The experience is expected to be different from the experience they would have if they called into, what they perceived to be, a standard beauty salon or doctor’s clinic.

We all know that the reputation and marketing hype uptake of the word spa and the concept of spa is far bigger than the actual number of spa businesses, even in far denser populations than ours. The word spa is used to market all sorts of things—many of which have nothing to do with the services we offer. This is because of the perception that if it is spa it must be special—a cut above the rest.

Unfortunately in many spa businesses today, of whatever style, the service on offer is definitely not a cut above the rest. This is affecting our industry’s reputation, as our clients are not having their expectations of floating out in bliss met. And it’s not only the actual spas that are affected by all this. Because the concept of spa is so desirable, beauty salons, retreats, resorts, hotels and

cosmetic medical clinics are now often rated against this new, higher expectation of what an ideal service experience can be. The service standard bar has been raised.

The delivery of a high service standard within a traditional business model or the newer spa-style facility depends 100% on the staff. It’s not in the gold taps and marble fixtures. not only are many of our industry’s staff not delivering the high service standard, many of our businesses don’t have staff! Obviously the rapid introduction of a new type of business is going to encounter staff shortages, but we are some years down the track now. So why is there such a desperate shortage of sufficiently skilled staff across the board in beauty generally?

As an industry spanning all types of service delivery from salon, through spa, and into hospitality and a number of other service industries, what are we doing wrong?

Many have opinions, and some have answers and are working on strategies. At Spa Australasia we are committed to being part of the solution, so in this edition we launch our new Human Resources, Careers and Education section, within which we will dig into the issues and explore and encourage the solutions. In this first rollout we have asked industry experts to comment on their key area of expertise. It’s a wrap-up of where we are at with some of the key areas within our foundation—training and education. From here let’s move forward and tackle this issue so that our industry collectively can evolve to become its highest ideal for our clients, our collective and individual financial security, and a highly desirable career option for our current staff and the generations to come. Kirien Withers is the founder and

publisher of Spa Australasia magazine

and a spa industry consultant.

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Perceptions from a NewcomerTransitioning from university management to spa and beauty proved eye-opening for Sherelle French.

WHEn I LEFT My role as a General Manager at Bond University 18 months ago and began my journey at Gold Coast Training Academy I must admit that when I met with my academic and senior management friends, I would pass off what I was doing somewhat apologetically. Knowing little about beauty therapy but having a great love of education, I decided to go into the classroom and take a subject. I quickly learnt that beauty therapists are wonderfully gifted with their hands as well as having an amazing way of connecting with customers, nurturing and healing in a way traditional academics had little understanding off. I realised that the students who choose this industry are truly gifted in their own way, just as the medical, business and law students who walked the halls at Bond are gifted in theirs.

It was then that I gained a real passion for the industry and set about looking at how I could use my own skills to make a real difference to the sector. I went out and sat with many managers and owners of spas and salons and listened to where they felt the issues were. This gave me an amazing insight into what students, spas and customers were looking for from this industry and the gaps in the training on offer.

I learnt that there were significant differences in the levels of training that therapists had received, that some employers invested in training and mentoring their staff and some adopted a use and abuse mentality, and that most therapists never invested in their ongoing training themselves. I also learnt that there was very often little understanding of the fundamental principles of business and marketing that are actually required to operate a successful business.

At GCTA we drew a line in the sand and decided we would commit to ensuring that students would only be passed when they demonstrated significant experience and quality skills in all of the currently required areas of spa and beauty therapy. Our school also decided that we would be quite selective in choosing students for admission, seeking out those who had true passion and ambition and specifically want to study with us to achieve their highest possible foundation standard.

Our goal now at GCTA is to also roll out a series of postgraduate training seminars in conjunction with leading experts and to reconnect with therapists who need to update their skills and knowledge, and refresh their passion. Ongoing professional development is one of my own personal keys to 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.

The Art and Science of Spa &

Body Therapy

If you are studying or teaching a spa qualification or any

individual treatments such as body electricals, wraps and body scrubs, tanning or hydrotherapy, there is nothing that comes close to The Art and Science of Spa & Body Therapy, both in terms of the content and the detailed treatment guides.

It is clearly written, explaining complex subjects concisely but comprehensively with images and illustrations throughout; it is structured to support the learner in their studies. As with other titles in the EMS Publishing range, the book comes with access to a range of online learning resources—including step-by-step video tutorials. These learning resources have proved extremely popular with students and tutors alike and set this textbook apart from the others in the sector; there is simply no other book like it.

What is great about The Art and Science of Spa & Body Therapy, apart from the fresh modern design and the engaging editorial tone, is that it has been produced with the student in mind. Altogether this is a fantastically powerful learning resource for students and lecturers alike.JohnReedBooks.com.au(02) 9905 7801

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.

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spa aus t ra las ia 47


Understanding the Recent Beauty Training Package ChangesKaren 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.

Training package qualifications identify the skills required to perform in particular job roles. The Beauty Training Package (SIB10) consists of qualifications ranging in level from the Certificate II to the Diploma and the new Vocational Graduate Certificate. Each level describes different job roles in the beauty, spa, nails and aesthetics industry (these are listed on the training.gov.au website).

The updated national training framework includes a range of new units to address current industry practices, as well as two new qualifications. The content of both the Certificate IV in Beauty Therapy (SIB40110) and the Diploma of Beauty Therapy (SIB50110) has been strengthened and expanded to include training in cosmetic tanning, microdermabrasion and intimate waxing, to focus the qualification on the technical skills required to be a therapist.

Employers in the beauty and spa industry look for therapists who have been trained in either the Certificate IV or the Diploma, with graduates of these qualifications then applying what they have learned to the spa environment. By increasing the existing two spa units to five units, budding therapists have the opportunity to specialise in spa therapies for the first time.

This specialisation is available in the Diploma of Beauty Therapy and complements the broad range of skills required of a therapist. The core units consist of body massage, body treatments, facials, waxing and the science-based disciplines—anatomy and physiology, skin biology, nutrition and cosmetic chemistry—that are fundamental to therapists. The five units

in the spa specialisation develop knowledge for working in a spa environment, including planning client treatments and maintaining ongoing treatment plans. In addition to a unit on providing a range of wet and dry spa therapies, units in stone therapy massage and Indian head massage have been added to the specialisation.

Two new qualifications have been developed to support growing areas in the industry and to provide therapists with an opportunity to train in nationally recognised post-graduate qualifications. The Diploma of Salon Management (SIB50210) focuses on business and management skills in the industry and provides training in human resources, team leadership, marketing and financial and business practices specifically for a beauty or hairdressing environment.

The introduction of the Vocational Graduate Certificate in Intense Pulsed Light and Laser Hair Reduction (SIB70110) builds on existing state-accredited courses to form a national qualification. Training for this qualification in light-based therapies includes how to use the modalities and important theory that underpins its safe use. Karen Banks is a senior project officer

in the training package development

and quality team at service skills

australia, the government-funded

industry skills council for the service

industries. she is responsible for the

development and maintenance of the

beauty training package.

serviceskills.com.au

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Training 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

core study areas of management and resort operations cover HR, leadership, marketing, safety and risk, property management, budgeting and financial operations and business legal knowledge.

In addition, the spa specialisation provides students with quality training in spa operations, providing an in-depth knowledge of the industry, consumer and expertise for five-star end-to-end spa treatment.

Spa training as part of the Diploma of Resort Management – Spa covers:

• Spa Operations• Science• Facials• Massage• Aromatherapy• Manicures and PedicuresThe one-of-a-kind course providing

spa therapies training in conjunction with hospitality and management

studies is closely linked with industry. William Angliss Institute has been working closely with Li’Tya for six years and spa students graduate well versed in Indigenous and wellness training including nutrition knowledge for a complete holistic understanding. Students also learn the finer points of body wraps, salt scrubs, body wraps, facials and foot treatments.

The combination of established industry partners and a dedicated resort industry placement officer assists graduates in securing employment when they complete their studies. In the last few months, students Sarah Clarke and Lauren Burton have secured placements at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island and graduate Marae Beltrame will be using her skills at The Waldorf Astoria Beach Hotel, Maldives, Modus Spa.

“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 opportunities that are on offer—like the Maldives!”

The recent opening of the Angliss Industry Training Centre in Surry Hills, NSW, now means that the Diploma of Resort Management – Spa can be studied in Sydney and Melbourne. Students won’t have to wait until graduation to get a taste of the idyllic locations spa careers can offer, either, with a national study tour taking them to Queensland to be immersed in the industry and further their development.

Places in the course for 2012 are still available. angliss.edu.au/resorts

Resorts Aren’t Just for Holidays for William Angliss Institute Spa Students

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Education and Accreditation in New ZealandWhile 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 over the administration and authorisation of beauty training courses, though the new Zealand Qualifications Authority (nzqa.govt.nz) still regulates accreditation of training providers. Training providers generally award a national Certificate of Educational Achievement (nCEA) Level 4 or 5 on graduation (depending of the accredited level of the provider). Similar to Australia, many training organisations offer concurrent international qualifications such as CIBTAC, CIDESCO or ITEC.

At present, new Zealand does not have academically recognised qualifications specifically for spa; however, a number of private schools run spa courses—such as Elite College (Hamilton) and Eastern Institute of Technology (napier)—which can be completed alongside beauty or massage therapy qualifications, or by students with prior training.

In a recent update to the requirements of the new Zealand Massage Association, members must now supply proof of continuing professional development including practical training sessions, which will likely be a boost for independent massage training providers (though association membership is not a requirement to practice).

The majority of new Zealand’s training courses in spa treatments are offered in Auckland and provided by product suppliers. The Christchurch earthquake badly affected all

training institutes in that city and the sector there will be severely impacted for some time.

AUT University offers three theoretical (degree level) papers relevant to the industry: International Spa Contemporary Issues (updated annually), Wellness Tourism (focusing on international markets and offerings) and International Spa Management and Design (mainly for people wanting to manage spa facilities). These papers are open to students studying Business, Tourism, Hospitality and Health Science degrees as well as industry professionals who want to keep up with global industry trends. The University has also set up a Wellness and Spa discipline area within the new Zealand Tourism Research Institute.Felicity Turner is a course tutor – spa therapies in the Faculty

of health and sports science at eastern institute of technology

napier. Maria

hyde-Smith is

a programme

leader and

senior lecturer

in the Faculty

of health and

environmental

sciences at

aut university,

auckland.

Gaining Experience: On-the-job TrainingWith 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 and beauty therapy by practicing on each other, but too often this is the only prep they receive before launching into their first job—a nerve-wracking leap for many graduates, and possibly part of the cause of the high attrition rate for industry newcomers.

Well-known hospitality school William Angliss Institute has partnered with Hilton Worldwide as the training provider for the hotel chain’s new Eforea spas that are rolling out around the world. The relationship between Hilton and William Angliss Institute sees the Eforea Spa at Hilton on the Park in Melbourne turn into a training spa two days per week. On Mondays the spa is used for product and operational training. Tuesdays it opens for

business to real customers (who are aware that it is a student spa on those days) with a streamlined discount menu. The students run the show—as the therapists, reception staff and spa manager.

Lauren Hudson, the program coordinator, explains that students undertake this internship as a non-compulsory six-week course add-on to the Diploma Resort Management—Spa. She says that the students gain a hands-on understanding of taking and confirming bookings, allocating treatment rooms, developing retailing skills, and handling and learning from guest feedback. They learn ‘nuts and bolts’ operations in depth, as well as gaining a management perspective, such as understanding the costs involved in treatments and wages.

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Next Steps: Becoming an EducatorQuality educators are vital to those coming up through the ranks of the spa industry writes Victoria Allpress.SPA THERAPISTS WHO are deeply invested in their work and the future of the beauty and spa industry may find that becoming an educator offers exciting new challenges and opportunities to give back by inspiring the next generation of therapists.

To become an educator or trainer in a TAFE or private beauty therapy college, or a brand educator for a product company, requires a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40110). This course covers the practical competencies required for teaching, including designing learning programs and presentations, planning assessment activities and processes and mentoring. There are more than 700 registered training organisations (RTOs) across Australia that offer this qualification, many of them online. (Search on training.gov.au.)

By completing the Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, therapists can teach national training package units in areas they hold qualifications. As a brand educator, the focus is on training therapists in product ranges and retail techniques.

Salaries for spa and beauty therapy educators vary according to qualifications and experience, and between TAFE, private colleges and large or small businesses. Therapists or managers wishing to transition into education may have the opportunity to develop their skills within their current workplace by supporting the team to improve standards or prepare for international accreditation.

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

Stone Eagle and ScenStone Therapy

The benefits of professional training in stone massage

are many and varied. Being able to deliver world-class therapies to your client is the foundation of success. A satisfied client will be a return client and a walking advertisement for your business.

Equally important is the therapist’s wellbeing. Proper training instils confidence and skill into their therapies. Knowing where and how to use stone tools properly will allow the therapist much enjoyment and competence in their treatments and will also benefit their hands. This also translates into radical savings for both therapists and employers as healthy and fit therapists are able to work more efficiently and better than injured or tired employees. This is especially true for the self-employed.

By training with ScenStone Therapy (which exclusively uses Stone Eagle Handcrafted Massage Stones), therapists will discover the significant ergonomic, thermal and hygienic advantages of Stone Eagle handcrafted Australian granite massage stones. These beautiful massage stones offer the superior alternative to traditional porous basalt pebbles and stones. With a lifetime warranty, any initial difference in price soon becomes insignificant. ScenStone Therapy can also provide teacher training.

Colleges and TAFEs able to purchase fully compliant training resources, including teacher and student manuals for the Stone Massage modality from Allowe Training Resources. Allowe Training Resources has worked with ScenStone Therapy and Stone Eagle to create these resources, which include 8 videos for the new unit SIBBSPA504A Provide stone therapies massage.

For Australia’s finest massage stones and equipment contact, Stone Eagle Handcrafted Massage Stones.stone-eagle.com, 1800 504 886

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Checklist for Hosting InternsWORK PLACEMEnTS are good for the industry, but do require management commitment. Follow this checklist to ensure a positive experience for both spa and student:• Explain your vision, goals, philosophy of

customer service and ethics.

• Familiarise them with your facilities and forms, product manuals, spa guidelines and other operational documents.

• Appoint a mentor from among senior staff. • Document a daily or weekly timetable.• Review progress & give formal feedback.• Provide a statement of experience.

Rebekah Osborne completed the student spa commitment this year during her final term. “It’s a very different experience to work with real customers, rather than other students,” she says. “We do everything from greeting guests when they arrive to offering them drinks after treatment. now I feel much more confident about what to expect when I join the workforce.”

Tasmanian beauty school Papillon and Victoria’s South West TAFE both work with Melannie Burgess-Pook, founder of Melle Beauty, to give students work experience opportunities at The Health Spa at Barnbougle Lost Farm. Earlier this year, Kate Smith and Grace Rayner, students in the Diploma of Beauty Therapy at South West TAFE, spent two weeks on work placement at the Tasmanian spa as a prize awarded by Verdé Hair and Beauty Evolution. There they gained an understanding of administration, client interaction, housekeeping and the spa’s specific treatment protocols.

“This experience was challenging and rewarding and a learning curve that we will not forget,” says Kate. “Being a spa therapist is not just about performing massage and facials; it’s about adjusting to different customer needs and understanding the operation of a spa.”



Educate In-House: Become a Training Spa with International AccreditationSpas 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 spa owners and managers realise that they need to provide training opportunities for staff to both retain them and expand their skill set.

One way in which employers can offer employees incentivised training and feel confident about the standard of learning is to facilitate an internationally accredited qualification in-house—and it’s easier to achieve than you may think.

International qualification providers such as CIDESCO, CIBTAC and ITEC offer qualifications that are recognised around the world. ITEC and CIDESCO were both founded over 60 years ago and CIBTAC more than 30 years ago. These qualifications are at the forefront of advancing technologies and industry trends, and are highly desired by employers around the globe.

Most established spa and beauty therapy schools are registered with one or more of these international bodies—generally, students sit an additional exam to receive their certification. However, spas wishing to offer accredited in-house training can also register with any of the training organisations. Provided it meets the relevant requirements, a spa can be recognised as a training spa that offers international qualifications (which does not entail being an Australian government registered training organisation). The awarding body provides all the support and information needed to set up training, including textbooks and online learning that support the qualifications.

Qualifying Bodies

• CIDESCO (Comité International d’Esthétique et de Cosmétologie) is based in Zurich, Switzerland, and is represented in 36 countries in over 230 schools. It provides accreditation in the areas of beauty therapy, spa, aromatherapy and epilation. CIDESCO.COM

• CIBTAC (Confederation of International Beauty Therapy & Cosmetology) was established in 1977 as the education arm of the British Association of Beauty Therapy & Cosmetology. This not-for-profit organisation began by offering traditional beauty therapy education but its portfolio now includes spa, wellbeing, diet and nutrition, sports therapy and other complementary and holistic therapies. CIBTAC.COM

• ITEC (International Therapy Examination Council) has recently established a presence in Australia. It offers a full range of qualifications from introductory to post-graduate level in beauty and complementary therapies; spa-specific qualifications for concierge and management roles; and, in the growth area of medical aesthetics, advanced skincare, microdermabrasion, IPL and laser for hair removal and skin rejuvenation. ITECWORLD.CO.UK

Business Mentoring & Coaching

One of the most important intentions in business, even in a

passion-based business like a spa, is to make profit. And yes, you can make money while making your clients happier, but in order to keep changing and improving, you need to be financially successful. This is part of the holistic business model spa industry expert Caroline Nelson helps owners and managers achieve.

For over 40 years, beauty industry business coach and mentor Caroline

Nelson has devoted her career to building profits for salon and spa businesses. Her business coaching and mentoring has helped hundreds of spa owners adapt their businesses to improve productivity and operational systems as well as increase retail sales and bottom-line profits. Her workable solutions to the challenges faced

by all beauty businesses have been thoroughly tested and proven and packaged in such a way that is easy to implement and quickly delivers exceptional results. Wherever you need to improve develop and increase your business she has the expertise and tools to make the process stress-free.

So if you want to get your business and marketing mojo working for you visit her website to learn more about Caroline’s step-by-step program for spa success, and to sign up for her FREE e-Book Salon Spa Money Making Secrets.SalonSpaBusiness.com, 0410 600 440

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Inspiring Best Team DynamicsTechnical skills are only one part of the equation of memorable spa services—therapists’ abilities to connect with clients and handle the complex emotions that can arise in the safe environment of the spa take another skill set completely. Margie Braunstein describes a new course from Quest For Life that addresses this component of staff education.

MAny OF yOU will have experienced Petrea King’s work and wisdom within the spa industry through an Aspa Conference, the Sydney International Spa & Beauty Expo or this magazine.

This year, in consultation with spa and wellness industry luminaries, Petrea’s Quest for Life foundation is launching the Quest for Wellness Events—a series of workshops created specifically for spas, retreats, resorts and wellness centres to present for their clientele, facilitated by regular Quest presenters.

A key element of the series is the Quest for Wellness Team Seminars. These workshops, which can be presented in spas or as a component of training courses will assist spa staff and independent therapists or practitioners to further develop their ability to:• Centre themselves and connect with the client;• Work together respectfully and supportively;• Manage personal life challenges and maintain inner peace;• Practice high quality self-care and regular relaxation;• Achieve job satisfaction and a sense of fulfilment; and• Respond to clients’ emotional needs graciously and constructively.

These abilities contribute profoundly to ensuring that guests have an optimal experience; that therapists have the skills to deal with a broad array of clients’ needs as they arise; and that the business enjoys the benefits of a relaxed, centred and emotionally balanced team. Margie Braunstein has been a professional facilitator for over 20

years. she trained under petrea king to deliver teachings that

have inspired and helped thousands of people around australia.

margie will facilitate the first of these workshops, which will be

presented by phyt’s ethical business seminars and the quest for

life Foundation on 7 november at the phyt’s training rooms in st

leonards, nsw. For more information or to book, call 1300 656 627.

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 the business.rachel Moran has 10 years experience in education, with the

last four years at the itec london head office. she is now

based in sydney as the administrative and development

manager for the itec asia-pacific region.

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Hot stone massage has evolved. We supply bamboo,

hot stone, seashell and crystal massage kits with easy-to-learn training for the massage, beauty and medical industry internationally.

We have created a modality using traditional healing techniques and tailored a kit and training package to suit modern spa, massage and beauty treatments. This modality began in Australia and has spread through Europe, UK, Hong Kong, US, Canada, Oman, Istanbul, India, China, Malaysia, New Zealand, Colombia, Bali, the Philippines, Ireland, Italy and Dubai.

We offer affordable in-house and correspondence training, tailored to suit your business. This method of training encompasses all modalities of beauty and massage, so if you are a beauty therapist; remedial, deep tissue or relaxation massage practitioner; reflexologist; or holistic healer, we have a package that will suit you. Our clients include independent therapists, international spa groups, salons and universities. You will deal with experienced practitioners who offer affordable and practical options. Our kits and training methodologies are of the highest quality, with a certificate of completion.

Our training packages include top quality kits. Our massage stones—basalt, green jade, white marble, blue pearl and crystals—are of the highest standard and created by master craftsmen. Our bamboo is organically treated, hygienic, easy to clean and grown specifically for massage in beautiful Byron Bay. A professional hydroponics manufacturer specifically designs our bamboo heating pads for bamboo massage. Our pads are never hot to the touch however they generate enough heat for hot stone massage. massagekits.com.au, 07 5598 6948



Next Steps: Advanced Dermal TherapiesSenior 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, formal education qualifying professionals specifically in this field has also matured. There are now courses available to students who are seeking a strong grounding in advanced dermal therapies that will equip them to work in a medispa or skincare clinic. The enrolment 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 units relating to cosmetic medicine and dermal therapies. The curriculum covers key competencies required to work as a dermal therapist within a cosmetic medical practice, performing dermal therapy procedures, assisting medical personnel with cosmetic surgical and non-surgical procedures and providing practice and patient management. The typical admission requirements for this course are completion of year 12, mature-age entry or a Certificate IV or Diploma in Beauty Therapy. The course is 18 months full-time or three years part-time, which can be studied online with blocks of in-person practical training and assessment. Additionally, completion will give credit in an enrolled and registered nursing course.

The Vocational Graduate Certificate in Dermal Therapies (Allied Health/Beauty Stream) is a government-accredited graduate course for candidates from an allied health or beauty background. It provides students with skills to work as a qualified dermal therapist, establish their own clinic or add dermal therapy procedures to their current scope of practice. The prerequisites for this 16-week full-time course are the Certificate IV or Diploma of Beauty Therapy or a Diploma minimum within a health-related field. The majority of the units are online, with 10 to 14 days in person.

The Vocational Graduate Certificate in Cosmetic Nursing is a postgraduate course specifically for enrolled or registered nurses wishing to enter the field of cosmetic medicine. This 16-week full-time government-accredited qualification provides students with the knowledge and hands-on skills required to work in a cosmetic medical practice or accredited day hospital performing cosmetic nursing, dermal therapies and injectable procedures.

The Vocational Graduate Certificate in Dermal Therapies (Cosmetic Medical Stream) provides medical practitioners with the skills and knowledge to pursue a career as a cosmetic physician while supervising non-medical staff. Theory-based units encompassing both surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures are supported by practical competencies in dermal therapies and cosmetic injectables.april Jorgensen is the owner and

director of australasian academy of

cosmetic dermal science (aacds),

which she opened in perth in 2004. she

teaches units in dermal science theory

and practice. aacds.edu.au

CURREnTLy THERE ARE few advanced dermal therapies courses in Australasia. Victoria University offers a Bachelor of Health Science (Dermal Therapies), the only degree-level dermal therapies course offered by an English-language university in the world, an Associate Degree in Dermal Therapies (vu.edu.au).

Keeping Up With Technology: Laser and IPLThe 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 entered the market and began to be used by operators without specific medical training. Although laser (light amplification of stimulated emission of radiation) has been around for much longer, it’s only in the last decade that these tools have been operated by therapists.

IPL and laser work on the same principle: when light energy is

delivered to tissue it is absorbed by certain targets that go through a process of change. The beauty industry uses phototherapy for a wide range of applications: hair and pigmentation reduction, vascular disorders and tightening and resurfacing of tissue.

As this equipment has become more available, courses have been devised to provide specialist training in its use. There are many



SOME SCHOOLS HAVE a specific focus on light-based protocols—for example the Australian Institute of Laser Therapy in Melbourne (ailt.com.au) or Laser Therapy & natural Medicine Sydney (lasertherapycentre.com.au).

types of courses available to therapists who wish to use laser and IPL. Prerequisites range 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 therapy for pre- and post-operative care to assist wound healing, skin regeneration and pain management. Each unit requires in-person attendance, providing the opportunity to develop hands-on skills. Advanced diploma and graduate certificate dermal therapy courses contain general laser units with other dermal-specific units.

With the new beauty training package, more providers are offering the Vocational Graduate Certificate in Intense Pulsed Light and Laser Hair Reduction. This covers laser physics, safety and specific clinical applications to hair reduction using both IPL and laser.

Most equipment suppliers offer detailed product-specific education that also encompasses some basic laser physics and clinical indications but predominantly focuses on the safe recommended parameters of the individual machine. The depth of information varies, depending on the supplier and the trainer’s educational background.Vera Koslova-Fu’s educational specialty is in all aspects of laser and light-based

modalities. she currently teaches at victoria university, melbourne. vu.edu.au

Continuous Learning: Advanced Professional DevelopmentIt’s essential for professionals at any stage in their career to keep learning. Attending seminars and conferences provides broad opportunities to stay abreast of industry and business best practice. Here are just a few of the professional development opportunities on offer.

COSMOPROF ASIA: For spa professionals seeking to build a business profile in Asia or get a high-level look at global spa business practices, the Spa Conference at Cosmoprof Asia (Hong Kong, 9 to 11 november) focuses specifically on the management and development of spa businesses. Highlights include seminars on wellness trends in India and the growth of the medispa category throughout Asia. Two sessions will discuss cultural understanding and product customisation for the Chinese cosmetic market and explain the newly introduced government cosmetic regulations. Industry pros interested in the Japanese market will get a sound grasp of the current situation and future prospects around beauty and wellness there through case studies of successful products and facilities.

The blockbuster of the conference will be the panel of top spa operators discussing how they’ve pushed boundaries in design, treatment and management. Panelists include industry heavyweights Barry White (Group Director of Spa, Chuan Spa, Langham Hospitality Group, Hong Kong), Kirsty MacCormick, (Corporate Director of Spa, OnyX Hospitality Group, Thailand), Sean O’ Connor (Group Spa Manager – Design & Development, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Hong Kong) and Vanessa Main (Director of Spa Development & Operations – Asia Pacific, Hilton Worldwide, Singapore).

advertorial

Verdé Hair and Beauty Evolution, located in

southwest Victoria, is South West TAFE’s innovative hair and beauty training facility, providing state-of-the-art equipment for students in training, and fully functional beauty treatment and hairdressing salons open to the general public.

In 2012, a new beauty training package will be introduced which incorporates spa training, with students graduating as qualified spa therapists. Courses are designed to develop skills, enhance career opportunities and provide graduates with nationally recognised qualifications.

Verde’s beauty therapy courses provide strong links to industry, with networking nights, awards ceremonies and competitions held throughout the year.

Sustainability is also embraced in all courses with students educated on the sustainable philosophies in the developing spa industry.

“2012 promises to be an exciting time,” says Gill Kirby, Verdé Beauty Therapy Coordinator. “Our students will be learning new spa industry standards while working with the latest spa technology.”

Training is provided across a wide range of spa and beauty techniques including spa packages, aromatherapy treatments, hydrotherapy, hot and cold stone massage, Indian head massage, Shirodhara and combining infra-red sauna with lymphatic drainage massage.

Students have the opportunity to visit a local spa with natural thermal waters, giving them an understanding of thermal hydrotherapy.

Students who excel in their studies may have the opportunity to undertake exclusive work experience at the prestigious Barnbougle Lost Farm Resort in Tasmania. swtafe.edu.au, 1300 648 911Continued page 56



Specialist Training for Spa Managers: Benefiting the industry and the individualManagers 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’ to not only learn new skills and brush up on techniques, but also assess current practices. Facilitated management training provides the structure to do this constructively and guide managers through the process. For an individual, refresher courses broaden business skills and can enhance commitment and passion. The best outcomes occur when managers are empowered to then implement new practices they have learned and facilitate in-house training to ensure all staff have the skills to meet those standards.

These are some of the reasons why William Angliss Institute (WAI) has expanded delivery of its spa training programs to offer the government-accredited Graduate Certificate in Management—Spa. This course, which specialises in spa operations, was developed in consultation with the Hilton group in Southeast Asia to provide the chain’s spa managers with customised training.

“Like any tourism or hospitality business, the ultimate success of a spa venture depends on its people,” says Tyra Lowman, Hilton Worldwide Senior Director Spa Brands, Full Service and Luxury Brands. “The spa teams are so excited—they see that they have the opportunity with Hilton for career development.”

The partnership sees Hilton’s spa managers from across Southeast Asia undertake training with WAI’s specialised staff. The course provides generalist management training contextualised around the Hilton brand. The course is being delivered under the overarching themes of innovation (‘Lead innovative thinking and practice in an organisational environment’) and strategy (‘Manage the development,

implementation and review of the strategic business plan’). It is presented over nine months and incorporates both online training and two intense (9-day and 7-day) on-site trainer instruction workshops. The first group of 15 students commenced in June.

Due to the nature of the spa industry, the course caters to managers with significant industry experience but who lack formal qualifications and therefore some of the broader business concepts and more complex management knowledge and skills.

A key component of the course is an advanced ‘train-the-trainer’ concept so that students develop the capabilities to train staff members.

From an organisational standpoint, investing in training—whether it is delivering a tailored course in the workplace or sending individual employees to undertake qualifications that will broaden their current knowledge base or prepare them for a promotion—adds value to both the company and the employee. When companies invest in their employees, the employees feel valued, so staff morale and retention also improve—ensuring positive outcomes continue beyond the training experience.Bryan McGoldrick is director of

angliss national, william angliss

institute. established in 1940, william

angliss institute is a training provider

specialising in the food, tourism and

hospitality sector. angliss.edu.au

Of course the trade show floor, with hundreds of exhibitors, will provide demonstrations of product ranges and equipment in a range of categories.cosmoproF-asia.com

ASPA SPA SEMInARS: Info events put on by the association have been held in most Australian states with more to follow around the country and in new Zealand. The seminars feature speakers from a range of industries and are hosted at a spa. Drinks and nibbles help the evening segue into networking and

comparing notes with industry peers. you don’t have to be an Aspa member to attend, either. aspaassociation.com.au

SyDnEy InTERnATIOnAL SPA & BEAUTy EXPO: Though it’s already come and gone this year, the expo is worth marking on your calendar (11 to 12 August, 2012) as a source of top expertise from our region and beyond. If you’re not already signed up for their enewsletter, do it now to take advantage of early-bird discounts on education seminars for next year.internationalbeautyexpo.com.au

Continued from page 55



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Training• Business integration or start-up support and marketing • Hands-on experience with clinical treatment experience • Personal nutritional cleanse while you learn• Potential profit over $100,000pa base of est. 30 treatments per week • Certification levels: Foundation, Intermediate, Advanced

International Association for Colon Hydrotherapy (I-ACT) • Certification standard, exam and membership • www.i-act.org

InstructorsMichelle and Andrew also share their clinical experience with their management of the colon hydrotherapy department at Tony Robbins Life Master Programme in Fiji, conducting over 9000 colonics over 7 years. Experts in integrating colon hydrotherapy into the health, spa and beauty profession.

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The Role of the Business Mentor and CoachIn 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 with no one to turn to for support and advice. In fact, some are leaving the spa industry because they’re finding that reaching their targets is becoming overwhelmingly difficult.

It’s worth considering that most professional athletes likely would never have reached their level of success without the supportive guidance of their coach. In business it’s exactly the same—those who stay the distance and do well inevitably have a mentor and coach with knowledge of the industry who helps to get the business running at peak performance while honing and sharpening the manager’s business skills.

A business mentor’s role is to support the time-poor manager with industry-tested systems that can be quickly and easily implemented. But first he or she needs to assess the overall performance of the business—this is an objective ‘health check’ of the business’s current weaknesses and strengths. From this assessment, the mentor will

identify the key issues requiring support and then develop strategies to overcome challenges, create stability and increase profits.

Working together, the mentor and owner or manager will implement business methods that have been well proven through long-term industry application. They will collaborate to improve staff productivity and customer service, which in turn increases retail sales and ensures client loyalty and retention.

A good business mentor has a variety of resources that will make the spa manager’s daily business life and goals much easier to achieve. A mentor should be viewed as part of a manager’s continuing education in business development. Caroline nelson is business coach

specialising in spa and beauty.

salonspabusiness.com

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