In 1978, the Isa Carstens Academy arose from the passion of one woman, Isa Carstens, who as a beauty therapist saw the need in the market for well-qualified therapists.
After 45 years, this passion still lives on with Isa's daughter, Isabel Roos, at the helm of affairs. The academy was started with only nine students at the time, and the mission of the academy still remains to give students the necessary entrepreneurial skills to one day start their own businesses.
Today, with the great interest in antiaging and non-invasive treatments that are results driven, the therapist takes a more scientific approach to treatments. Many new treatments are backed by clinical research for reliable and remarkable results.
"We try to make sure that every student who leaves here has the same passion for the industry, because this is what makes them stand out from the rest," says Yolandé Swanepoel, academic head of the Isa Carstens® Academy.
Our courses are also all accredited by the council for higher education, which ensures that we comply with national legislation. As a private institution, we are subject to exactly the same regulations as any other public university.
The academy makes use of well-known, professional brands in the industry at all times, but as a training school the focus is more on the active ingredients in the products and thus they attempt to introduce students to a variety of professional skin care brands.
"So when they start working the day, they are comfortable with the most popular brands and technology in the industry. Most of our programs also include a certain number of practical hours that they do from their first year to make sure they are ready for the industry if they qualify after graduation."
The academy currently has three accredited programs:
- A one-year Higher Certificate in Front Office Administration
- A three-year Diploma in Somatology
- An Advanced Diploma in Dermal Aesthetics, which is an additional 4th year of study for qualified Somatologists.
Over the years, we have seen that there was an increase in demand for reception and operational support in a salon or spa. In earlier years, the therapist often took on reception duties, however, as the industry evolved, the need for someone who can predominantly focus on this area arose.
"The market need for support staff who also understand the beauty and spa environment led to the development of the one-year programme in Front OfficeAdministration, where students have the option to elect practical beauty modules," says Swanepoel.
Student Life
The academy expanded to Pretoria about 13 years ago and is currently in a very modern new campus building in Lynnwood. The premises also have a ladies residence which is open to any students from other registered institutions and is located a mere 3km from the University of Pretoria.
More than just a residence, Isa is a thriving community defined by values that strive for respect, kindness and honesty. Our live-in residence head, always talks about the student’s ‘home away from home’. All of our residences prioritise safety and provide a space that is conducive to learning.
"Our student community is filled with fun and inclusive activities while not forgetting that students established themselves here to get a qualification."
Admission
To enrol for the diploma in somatology, an APS score of 24 or more is required, with an exemption for diploma studies. The most important school subject is life sciences as the field of study deals with the human body.
We realize that pupils have to make subject choices early on in grade 9 and may not yet realize which field of study they want to do after matric. For students who did not have life sciences at school, we offer an anatomy and physiology bridging course during their first year of studies.
You can therefore start your first year like any other student and only do the bridging course," explains Swanepoel.
Making A Difference
Somatologists find joy in helping people look and feel better. "Personal care is a holistic experience. Over and above the treatment benefits of visiting a salon, spa or skincare clinic, the decision that you take to take care of yourself, as well as the total experience enhances overall well-being.
It affects your whole nervous system while you still enjoy lasting results.
The reality is that we will never stop the ageing process, but with a little help we can delay the process as long as possible.
However, in some cases, it requires more advanced treatments. Somatologists can study further to incorporate advanced dermal aesthetics into their protocols. This multidisciplinary approach to treatments is very successful and gives incredible results."
According to Swanepoel, Isa Carstens® Academy's therapists are trained to be at the forefront of the latest treatments.
Our courses are accredited by the council for higher education Council for Higher Education, which ensures that we comply with national legislation. As a private institution, we are subject to exactly the same regulations as any other public university.
Visit the Isa Carstens® Academy website for more information.
