In the UK there are 4,800 beauty salons, 36,000 hairdressing salons (5,800 of which offer beauty therapy treatments particularly those for which, for example, hotels and leisure centres. There has been significant growth in the number of independant nail salons and spa facilities, also in the number of existing beauty therapy salons now offering an extended range of services including nail services and spa facilities. Prior to the development of this framework, those who wanted to work in a beauty therapy job role had to achieve the NVQ Diploma by attending a full time college based programme. This framework will allow for an alternative work based learning route to training in full time education for the beauty therapy industry from intermediate level and a progression route from level 2 full time courses to an advanced level Apprenticeship.

Appropriate personal presentation including clothing, nails, hair and personal hygiene. Practical, organisational and social skills. Attention to detail and cleanliness. A good sense of humour/amicable nature and communication skills whether dealing face to face with clients or speaking on the telephone. Willingness to work flexible hours/days as agreed in the employment contract. A high degree of dexterity and coordination. Potential Apprentices with a predisposition to certain skin conditions or allergies, such as occupational dermatitis, eczema or asthma, need to understand that some chemicals, liquids and aerosols used in the spa therapy industry may have a significant effect on their health.