Helen McGuinness Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply?

Simply telephone us on 023 8026 8888 or email us at contactus@helenmcguinness.com to check for availability. We can then send you an electronic booking form and you can pay a course deposit by card over the telephone. Alternatively, complete our application form indicating the course/s you wish to apply for and enclose your deposit.  Upon receipt of your application and deposit, a confirmation will be sent to you. Alternatively you may wish to telephone to book a time to attend for a pre-course interview with a member of staff qualified to answer your questions.  Please also see general information

Please remember that it is always best to check availability on the course you wish to book as we cannot guarantee a place is always available.

What payment methods may be used for my course fees?

We can accept payment of course fees in cash, by cheque or by all major credit cards.

If you are in receipt of any other types of funding please check the procedure with our Central Administration Staff.

What do the course fees include?

Course Tuition fees include practical & theoretical tuition, training manuals DVDs and handouts, as well as the use of centre resources and semi consumables as appropriate to each course of study. Some courses will require you to buy kits for use at home if undertaking qualifications that require case studies or practical homework.

Assessment / Awarding Body registration fees are separate to tuition fees and include assessment and certification for the award being undertaken.

Do I have to provide my own uniform?

Yes, a smart Beauty / Holistic uniform is compulsory for all students. Details of suppliers may be given upon application.

Is there any additional costs payable besides the course tuition fee?

Yes, if you are taking a VTCT/NVQ award there is an assessment fee payable and a lifetime (one off) fee of £16.00.  Please refer to How to Apply.

If I am travelling from a distance is there somewhere I can stay locally?

Yes, accommodation is available locally from around £30.00 a night, including breakfast. A list of local accommodation will be sent to you upon confirmation of your course if you are travelling from a distance.

What do I need to bring along with me to the class?

You will need writing paper and writing utensils, a lever arch file, professional workwear and appropriate footwear for all practical sessions. Some courses will also require you to purchase a kit for homework / case studies.

For course attendance during the day or weekend you may wish to bring a packed lunch, although shops are nearby. Hot Liquid refreshments are provided free of charge, please bring bottled water.

I haven’t studied for some time, how will I cope with the intensity of learning?

All of our courses are intensive and comprehensive in design to prepare you for commercial practice. However, because of our unique teaching methods that concentrate on clear instruction, effective teaching methods with time for review and practice, most students cope very well. The main requirement to succeed is to have plenty of enthusiasm, motivation and devotion to the work required. Staff are extremely experienced in helping  and advising you during training so you will always have plenty of support.

We are always very approachable and encourage students to discuss their training needs with us at all times, whether you are currently undertaking training or looking to undertake training. Students can often lack confidence or require professional guidance with their chosen course of study, so remember you can always be assured that we are here to help you.

But remember ...  if you don't ask for assistance we cannot help.

What will the class contact time involve?

The class contact time will be split between theory and class discussion on the underpinning knowledge related to your chosen course, whilst the rest of the class will concentrate on practising techniques and practical skills needed for successful commercial practice.

Students will work on fellow members of their class and live clients as appropriate to the course of study to enable candidates to prepare themselves to work in a commercial capacity.

Are the qualifications I receive recognised within the industry in the UK and abroad?

All of our courses lead to professional practice and are approved and validated by a number of professional bodies. Recognition of the standard of training provided by Helen McGuinness Health & Beauty Training International is well-known throughout the professional holistic therapy and beauty therapy industry.

A number of our graduates have successfully taken their skills abroad to work. We also have many students who come form overseas to study with us and gain certification to work in their own countries.

Most professional UK qualifications are widely transferable and accepted in other countries enabling you to practice abroad. However, you should always check with the relevant authorities in the destination country as to their specific requirements for professional practice.

Can I gain Professional Membership and Insurance after Qualifying?

Our courses are recognised by a number of professional associations to enable graduates to have professional recognition upon qualifying.  Our courses are also accepted by a number of insuring companies, such as The Guild of Beauty Therapists for professional practice. However, due to the number of different therapies and insuring companies available, we would always advise that  you check with your insuring company first before undertaking a course, to ensure that it is acceptable to them. Please also visit our links page

What employment opportunities are there upon graduating?

Complementary Therapies and Beauty Therapy are both growth industries. The comprehensive training that our graduates receive will provide them with maximum career opportunities.

In the field of Complementary Therapies there are opportunities to work in private practice, in health clubs, health farms, spas, complementary therapy centres, GP surgeries, hospitals and clinics.

In the field of Beauty Therapy employment may be found hair and beauty salons and clinics, spas, in health clubs and luxury hotels and aboard cruise liners.