For all of us, it can be daunting choosing a career path. There can be doubts, a little bit of confusion and — of course — there is a stark difference between learning on the job and learning in a classroom. At PURE, we believe in helping new beauty/spa therapists launch their professional career and take it to a higher level.
Recently, we had three students join the PURE team. At Silverburn, we offered 6-month placements to Roxanne and Paula; two Beauty Therapy students at North Ayrshire College. At Union Square, we were joined by Ashton on a permanent part-time basis alongside her studies at Aberdeen College.
We thought it was a great opportunity to ask them a few questions…
What drew you to the beauty/spa industry?
Roxanne: “I was a lifeguard for 12 years and decided I wanted a change. I chose beauty as I love to be pampered and wanted to give others that too. I wanted to have that expertise. Plus, the industry really excites me.”
Paula: “Since I was young, I always enjoyed doing nails, make-up and so on. I loved experimenting with it. I am quite a creative person and I enjoy learning all the different treatments, too.”
Ashton: “Looking at magazines and books, then doing Level 2 Beauty at Aberdeen College.”
Tell us your favourite treatment and why you like it.
Roxanne: “To receive? Massages. It gives me time to myself and enables me to relax. It relieves tension from my day to day life!”
Paula: “My favourite treatment to give is waxing. There’s something about seeing the instant results that really appeals to me for some reason!”
Ashton: “Facials are so relaxing, both for clients receiving them and therapists performing them!”
What made you apply to PURE Spa & Beauty?
Roxanne: “I thought it would be a great opportunity and a great place to hone my beauty knowledge and how a spa/salon operates. I also wanted to learn different techniques and tips from other therapists.”
Paula: “I applied to PURE as it’s a great opportunity to get real, hands-on training. I could get a feel for what it’s like working in a true spa environment, and also wanted to prove myself and develop my skills alongside college.”
Ashton: “I heard about PURE from a friend at college, then again via an advert on the radio. I applied, sent in my CV, then passed the interview! I was lucky enough to be offered a permanent, part-time position even though I’m still at college. I can train whilst working.”
What are you getting from the experience?
Roxanne: “Learning day to day operations of a real spa/salon is so different to college. My placement is a great place to learn. For instance, my weakest area is giving manicures, so the learning experience is really beneficial.”
Paula: “I am loving the experience and everyone is so helpful and friendly. I am interested in all the different treatments PURE offers, and I am keen to take on all the advice they can give me during my placement.”
Ashton: “I’m grateful to learn how the beauty industry works. You really need to work hard to be successful — therapists are often under estimated!”
Sum up your experience so far!
Roxanne: “I have really enjoyed the experience. It’s such a great way to learn.”
Paula: “It has been so fast-paced and I’m enjoying my daily tasks. I’m also learning about the reception side of a spa, which I like.”
Ashton: “It’s amazing! I’m so glad I got this opportunity.”
If you had one bit of advice to pass on to those going into the industry, what would it be?
Roxanne: “Believe in yourself. Enjoy the experience. Have fun!”
Paula: “I would tell them that an opportunity like this is a must. It’s a real eye-opener and I’m just so grateful to have been given it.”
Ashton: “Complete Level 3 Beauty at college, then hopefully work full-time at PURE as a therapist!”