Shangri-La has opened its first dedicated spa training centre – the Shangri-La Spa Academy, in Manila, Philippines. The Spa Academy will train therapists to meet the demands of the rapid expansion of CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La – Shangri-La's signature spa brand. 

Five CHI spas are open today, in Bangkok, Cebu, Shanghai, Penang and Muscat, with 22 spas scheduled to open in premier city and resort locations over the next five years. 

The concept for CHI draws inspiration from the origin of the Shangri-La legend, high in the mystical Himalayan mountains. CHI offers a range of therapies based on the ancient healing traditions, philosophies and rituals of China and the Himalayas.  

In addition to practical skills, academy trainees learn about chi philosophy, the universal life force that governs well-being and personal vitality, the inspiration of Shangri-La's CHI experience, as well as instruction and knowledge on how to deliver the Shangri-La style of service within a spa environment.

It is anticipated that approximately 60 trainees will graduate with Shangri-La Spa Academy Certification each year with a further 20 receiving professional spa management training.  

Trainees undergo a three-month programme to obtain certification. The programme is taught by certified spa professionals from internationally accredited spa education facilities under the direction of CHI training managers, and encompasses all aspects of spa therapy.

The Shangri-La Spa Academy trains CHI spa therapists from the Philippines and other Asian countries, for both new and existing CHI locations, as well as providing career development courses for existing CHI therapists to progress into management. It initiates service standards and oversees staff and spa programme development.

The Academy's comprehensive training programmes meet the standards of the Confederation of Beauty Therapists (CIBTAC) and International Therapy Examination Council (ITEC); both are internationally recognised spa examination and licensing bodies. 

The 346-square-metre Shangri-La Spa Academy is a self-contained facility that includes a practical treatment area and lecture room for 24 students, a library, a study lounge, a full shower and locker facility, as well as an al fresco relaxation area.

"We recognise that our therapists are the cornerstone of the success of CHI," said Ian Brewis, Shangri-La director of group spa development and operations.  "Through these training programmes, therapists receive the technical knowledge and confidence to provide memorable spa experiences to our guests each and every time."

"The Shangri-La Spa Academy marks another milestone for us, a hotel group with a firm belief in employee development," said Tan Eng Leong, group director of human resources.  "The academy creates opportunities for our present employees to grow with us, achieving their full potential and career goals, as we continue to expand."