To start off you go to college NVQ levels 1, 2 and 3 and also in house training. You need to be very professional with quite a relaxed nature and very friendly and caring. The treatments that we do are full body massages, body exfoliates, body wraps full facials, mini facials, eyelash and brow treatments and anti ageing. To get up to an aromatherapy massage you need to have NVQ level 3 and need to start at level 1 then 2 and 3. You can also do another qualification, which is Itec and Btec.

We also have trainees that come to work here from college on day release and generally if they are on level one they start by basic cleaning and getting towels ready for clients and sorting out the treatment trolleys to make sure enough of the products. Level 2 they come in and do facials or body massages depending on the exams passed and when they have reached level 3 they can apply for a job here. The benefits of working as a therapist in the hotel are that we do get cheaper rates within the hotel group, get products at cost price and sometimes if lucky we do get treatments done on each other.

A Day in the Life

Day starts at 8.30am which I arrive at the salon, turning on all the equipment ready to start work.

Check for messages, daily appointments and the purchasing of all salon products.

I am also responsible for the rota for the department, all the special events and demonstrations including client advice and staff training.

Background and Training

I have run several businesses on my own and with my husband. I have worked abroad mainly in Greece running a water sports business for 3 years (hooked on the Ouzo). I learned to speak a little Greek and am a qualified parasailing instructor.

I also worked in a pain relief clinic in Doncaster mainly using aromatherapy before coming to work here as salon manager. It was good experience but certainly didn't match the surroundings of my current role. It's great to work in this type of environment.

Career Progression

At the moment I am happy with my current job but I may return to running my own business again or buying a franchise business.

Qualifications Needed

Most people take a full time course leading to HND or NVQ qualifications. For some courses you need at least 3 GCSEs A-C or an intermediate GNVQ level 11.

Another entry route is to get a modern apprenticeship or National Traineeship to give you the opportunity to train as you work.

Qualities Needed

Good communicator with high standards of person grooming and customer service.