Hand Picked Hotels launches spa therapist apprenticeship programme

In a bid to help the industry build future talent, Hand Picked Hotels has launched its own spa therapist apprenticeship programme, alongside national provider Armonia Training Academy.

Designed to attract and nurture future talent, the programme equips apprentices with the practical skills and insight they need to succeed within the spa industry.

On successfully completing their apprenticeship, candidates are guaranteed a role within Hand Picked Hotels.

Nurturing and learning

During the apprenticeship, team members will undergo on-site training at Hand Picked Hotels’ spas, as well as block training with Armonia Training Academy.

Each apprentice will be assigned a personal mentor within the spa and from Armonia to support them throughout their course.

They will also have guidance from Armonia’s CEO, Diane Hey, who has 35 years’ experience in the beauty aesthetics and wellbeing sector.

“Offering a nurturing learning environment and inspiring creativity is at the heart of what we do, so introducing a scheme that professionally recognises this was a logical step for us,” says Bacon.

“Being able to furnish our talented future therapists with the very best skills is invaluable.”

Security and peace of mind

Hand Picked, which has 11 spa hotels in its 21-strong, privately owned collection, has already taken on its first eight recruits.

Jessica Reeves, who has joined the newly launched programme, says: “I have been eager to start a career in spa and beauty for a while – this is a perfect entry point for me.

“To get practical on-site experience while learning from experts is just brilliant. I like knowing that I will be able to start my career with Hand Picked Hotels once I graduate.

“It gives me the security and peace of mind to completely focus on my training.”

Growing talent from within

The programme has been curated for candidates who have no previous experience or qualifications but a desire to pursue a career in the spa industry.

Rachel Udall-James, lead training and development manager for Hand Picked Hotels, adds: “I welcome our new apprentices, who join our existing 62 other apprentices across the collection studying culinary, hospitality and management apprenticeships, growing our own talent from within.”