Let's talk about qualifications

Confused about which qualification is for you? You’re not the only one. The team at Skin Philosophy outlines the options

With literally thousands of courses out there, all giving different information, it can get a bit overwhelming. And with new regulations looming, it’s more important than ever to pick the right one. So which should you choose?

Skin Philosophy’s goal has always been to raise the standards of training in the aesthetics industry, and the team believes the best way to do that is through an Ofqual certification. But why?

Skin Philosophy was founded on Annalouise Kenny’s desire to raise the standards of training and practice in the aesthetics industry. The company was founded in 2011, when Kenny realised that therapists could attend half a day of training with a laser machine and go straight into treating clients.

This seemed not only unsafe but also unwise commercially – surely highly qualified therapists would lead to a greater satisfaction rate among customers?

CPD vs Ofqual

CPD courses are essential for developing and honing your skills as a therapist: it could cover anything from facial massage to an online first aid course. Each hour of education will earn you one CPD point, a requirement of many organisations – for example, Habia members who are employed full-time must achieve 30 points a year.

These courses can keep you ahead in the industry and provide your clients with the latest techniques, technologies and ingredients. Indeed, all of our teachers must undertake numerous CPD courses every year to make sure that they’re keeping their knowledge fresh.

However, these points are based on attendance, so it can’t be guaranteed that a student is fully competent by the end. There is a huge range of courses out there, and the quality of each provider cannot be fully ensured in the same way that Ofqual qualifications can.

So how does Ofqual differ? A qualification from a government-regulated awarding body such as VTCT, ITEC, Cibtac or Cidesco means that the academy will have gone through stringent assessments, ensuring that they are giving high standards of training provided via an in-depth syllabus.

Students will be undertaking theory, training, case studies and exams to ensure that they are reaching the standards set to give safe, effective and professional treatments. Lots of councils and insurance companies are now demanding Ofqual certificates, plus many of these qualifications are recognised globally. So while it will be more of a financial outlay initially, the opportunities and advantages they offer are more far-ranging than CPD.

So, which course is right for you? 

Both have their place. We love that the huge range of options with CPD allows every therapist to choose a unique training path. But if you want to operate safely, legally and with full insurance, then Ofqual is where you need to start.

To find out more about Skin Philosophy Training, visit skinphilosophy.training