New pathway set to reshape spa education in Edinburgh

The latest training initiative from the Academy and One Spa at Sheraton Grand combines qualifications with hands-on spa experience

Scotland

By Wendy Golledge

01 June 2026

www.the-academy.co.uk

Glasgow-based beauty education provider the Academy has announced a new partnership with One Spa at Sheraton Grand in Edinburgh.

Envisaged to create a fresh pathway into the wellness industry for Scottish students, the partnership is set to help develop a new generation of spa professionals.

Aspiring therapists will undertake structured, scholarship-style training delivered by the Academy, combined with practical, hands-on experience at One Spa.

The training programme blends classroom learning, practical assessments and workplace immersion to give trainees the skills and confidence to build lasting careers in the industry.

“This is about building careers, not filling vacancies. By combining high-quality education with genuine hands-on experience in a real spa environment, we’re creating a more modern pathway into the profession.”

Fiona Young

Spa director, One Spa

“Successfully and confidently delivering treatments requires far more than simply learning techniques,” said Fiona Young, spa director at One Spa.

“Aspiring therapists need a proper understanding of anatomy and physiology, of health and safety, client care and the guest experience.”

CIBTAC qualifications and mentorship

Throughout the programme, trainees will work towards the CIBTAC qualification in massage and facial therapy through the Academy.

Alongside formal teaching, students will receive mentorship from senior One Spa therapists and gain exposure to every aspect of spa operations. They will be employed at the One Spa at the Sheraton Grand for the duration of the course.

“By training our learners through globally-recognised CIBTAC qualifications, we are able to give aspiring therapists the strongest possible foundation at the very beginning of their careers.”

Jenny Storey

Director, The Academy

Raising training standards

This holistic training approach is designed to produce well-rounded professionals. equipped for long-term success within the sector.

“At the heart of everything we do is a genuine passion for raising standards within the spa and wellness sector,” said Jenny Storey, director of the Academy.

“We care about setting our learners up for long-term success, not only by developing their technical ability, but by inspiring confidence and professionalism.”

One Spa Sheraton Grand Hotel — Trainees wil be employed at One Spa at the Sheraton Grand for the duration of the course

The Academy is known for delivering industry-recognised qualifications and preparing students for successful careers across the spa and aesthetics sectors.

“As demand for high-quality wellness experience continues to rise, partnerships between education providers will play an increasingly important role in fortifying the future workforce of the spa industry,” said Storey.

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