A new work-based learning qualification from the Cleopatra Beauty Institute (CBI) has been introduced to help qualify the region's spa therapists to global standards.
The International Vocational Qualification (IVQ) — which has already been successful in the hairdressing industry — will train therapists on-site and provide them with an international qualification from UK-based examining body City & Guilds.
Director of CBI’s parent company Wafi Health and Leisure Daniella Russell said: “IVQ gives the therapists working in this region an opportunity to bring their qualifications up to the international level, which will reflect on the overall industry improving its standards.
“In the UAE we are definitely reaching a point when internationally qualified staff will be ‘a must’ criteria from the government and IVQ gives companies the perfect platform to invest in the future and in existing staff,” continued Russell.
“International spa education is crucial and investing in your people for educational purposes and bringing them to a higher level which gives them opportunity to grow within the organization is a mutually beneficial option for both employer and employee,” she added.
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Students enrolled on the IVQ will be assessed in their place of work by CBI assessors who will meet with the therapist, observe their practical work and provide feedback.
The courses, which will run annually from September to July, also involve written and oral assessments through attendance at the Institute once a month.
CBI, which will offer IVQ courses at level one, two and three in Beauty Therapy, expects existing spas, wellness centres, hotels, day spas and salons that employ experienced therapists with no formal qualifications to be the biggest beneficiaries of work-based learning.
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