Growing
careers
beautifully.
A registered training provider with 21 years of expertise in hair, beauty, and holistic therapy — helping students flourish across Gloucestershire and Derbyshire.
ABT
Accredited
FHT
Accredited Course Provider
Our story
Cedars Training Academy is a registered training provider with academies based in Gloucestershire and Derbyshire. Combining over 21 years of experience in delivering health and beauty training, our academies aim to help you start your journey to a more satisfying and authentic life.
Through our range of training and qualifications — from apprenticeships to NVQs and short courses — we can get you started or help advance your career in hair, beauty, and holistic therapy. We are proud to offer accredited qualifications recognised worldwide.
Cedars Training Academy is part of the High Ridge Training Group, a collective of specialist training providers who combine and share best practice, management, and operational resources to support our specialist tutors and programme leads.
Formerly operating as the International Hair and Beauty Academy (IBHA), founded in 2014 by the salon directors of Cedars Health & Beauty Centre — we have always maintained a commitment to raising the profile of beauty and holistic training to international standards.
Our Derby centre, formerly Infinity Training Academy founded in 2011, is an award-winning centre known for excellence in training for holistic and complementary therapies.
Our goal is to help you get qualified so you can pursue your dream career and bring more freedom and satisfaction to your life.
— The Cedars TeamA collective of specialist providers sharing expertise, resources, and a commitment to the highest standards — with Ofsted ‘Good’ ratings across all areas.
Why choose us
Expert, Qualified Tutors
Our specialist team brings excellent industry experience to every session. We pride ourselves on professionalism and the individual service we provide each learner.
All Materials Provided
All professional products, equipment, and materials are included. No need to bring your own kit unless specifically advised in advance for your course.
Free Refresher Option
Students may attend their course again within 6 months to refresh skills and rebuild confidence — completely free of charge.
Flexible Pathways
Choose from apprenticeships, NVQs, or short courses. Klarna, Clear Pay, and instalment plans available, making quality training accessible to all.
Accredited Qualifications
Qualifications accredited by VTCT, FHT, and ABT — recognised nationally and internationally, giving your credentials genuine industry weight.
Dedicated Support
A personal tutor and assessor supports you from day one. Business support officers help apprentices navigate enrolment and stay on track.
Meet the Team
Here at Cedars Training Academy our experienced, friendly and qualified team members are here at hand to help you achieve your goals and guide you in the right direction.
I’m Andrew
Company Director
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I have worked in the childcare industry for over 10 years, growing Energy Kidz to be the largest wraparound childcare organisation in the UK with over 120 settings. Reach4Skills was actually born from a need that Energy Kidz had to upskill their delivery staff. I soon realised there was a gap in the market due to a shortage of high quality and reliable training providers.
Reach4Skills quickly became a leader within the nursery and childcare training space and has gone from strength to strength since. I am extremely proud of the fantastic team, who continue to deliver to the highest standard, driving positive outcomes for our learners and employers. It’s fantastic to see their work making such a difference to so many people.
I’m Charlotte
Managing Director
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I may not remember every grammar rule or algebra equation from my English and Maths teachers, but I can remember the difference they made on my education and the positive impact they continue to have on me throughout my life. That was the reason I wanted to work in education!
After 8 years working in the travel and tourism industry abroad and studying HR, I found my enthusiasm in leading and developing people.
I qualified as a trainer in 2013 and started my training career working in a school that specialised in educating students with social, emotional, and mental health needs.
I joined Andrew at Reach4Skills in 2017 after several years delivering business qualifications in further education. We grew our first business together to become an approved, government funded, apprenticeship and adult skills provider and pride ourselves on the importance of delivering a training experience that is tailored to the individual needs of the learner. We’ve recently created the High Ridge Training Group, a group consisting of specialist training providers who combine and share good practice.
During this time, I’m proud to say I led Reach4Skills Training through our first and full Ofsted inspection receiving ‘Good’ in all areas and more recently Cedars Training Academy in their first monitoring visit. I have always insisted on having the highest expectations of myself, my team, and our learners and without them those achievements would not be possible.
I love my work and when I’m not working, I can be found walking a lot more, after successfully climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in January 2022. I also enjoy spending time with my husband and friends and visiting my favourite holiday destination, the Greek Islands.
I’m Anna
Head of Training and Group Designated Safeguarding and Prevent Lead
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Prior to joining the High Ridge team in 2017, my career background was predominantly within Senior Management roles across the Early Years sector. Supporting individuals with training and development opportunities, has always been one of my leading passions, and it was this motivation that inspired the change of career direction into Further Education.
On a personal level, I enjoy spending quality time with my family. We share a love for adventures and travel, anything from activity camping in the UK to swimming in the Caribbean Sea.
I’m Jamie
Functional Skills Lead/Mental Health Champion
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I’ve been working in the education sector since 2015 and have experience teaching maths and English from entry levels up to GCSE. I understand the challenges young people face when learning maths and English and find joy in helping them achieve in the two subjects. I have experience leading maths and English teams and strive to develop maths and English into accessible and enjoyable qualifications for all.
Away from work, I enjoy spending time with my family, going to the gym and keeping up with old pals while gaming online. I’m also a big foodie and am always up for trying new foods!
Beauty and Holistic Tutor
I’m Mya
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I’m Nikki
Operations Manager & Designated Safeguarding and Prevent Lead
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I have worked for Cedars since 2020 when I joined as an assessor/IQA. Since then, I have moved into the role of Operations Manager, Looking after a team of tutors, and Therapists as I also look after the Cedars Salon. I love my job.
My career started working in Spas and Salons in Birmingham City. I then started my own business, gaining 5* ratings, which then lead me to wanting to develop more into my teaching and passing my passions onto others within the industry.
When I am not at work I am often out in the fresh air with my husband, daughter, and my Dog in the fields exploring Nature or at the Gym. My Favourite thing to do is to have a family cuddle on the sofa with a film listening to the rain on the windows with a hot drink and some popcorn. in front of an open fire I love doing anything relating to wellbeing and relaxation.
Beauty and Holistic Tutor
I’m Caroline
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I am a Beauty and Holistic Tutor and Assessor at Cedars, where I’ve been sharing my passion for the industry . My journey in beauty began over 14 years ago when I opened my own salon in the Forest of Dean, managing a talented team of self-employed professionals.
Over the years, I’ve developed a deep love for the beauty and holistic therapy industry — not only for the creativity and care it brings to clients but also for the opportunity to help others grow within it. Teaching allows me to pass on my knowledge, inspire new therapists, and continue expanding my own expertise across different treatments and fields.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending quality time with my husband and two daughters and walking our family dog through the woods. My favourite thing to do, however, is to explore new places and experience the world through travel.
Beauty and Holistic Tutor
I’m Nicola
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I love being in the beauty industry and my love for holistic treatments has grown after owning my own business for the past 8 years. I have worked in high end spas previously to this and learnt so many skills over the years in industry. I always keep up to date on the latest treatments and pride myself on always practicing and perfecting my treatments. I cannot wait to pass all the skills and knowledge onto students to make them the best therapists they can be.
Beauty and Holistic Tutor
I’m Zara
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I have worked as a holistic therapist for over ten years, having had a career change from primary teaching. This role combines my love of educating with holistic therapies and enables me to inspire future therapists. I love complementary therapies and the amazing effect they can have on clients, in particular the power of aromatherapy and essential oils. I have worked in a spa, running my own business, in the NHS and within hospice care. I have a particular passion for complementary therapy in palliative care and the huge benefits this can bring.
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I have worked in the hairdressing industry for over 20 years. Prior to Joining Cedars, I worked in some of the most Prestigious salons in Gloucestershire. Eventually living my dream of opening my own salon in 2014. Alongside tutoring, I run a salon in Gloucester and manage a team of 4. I am hugely passionate about the hairdressing industry and educating the next generation of hairdressers.
Outside of work I love spending time with my family and friends, going to the gym and walking my dog.
Hairdressing Tutor
I’m Alice
Beauty and Holistic Tutor
I’m Victoria
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coming soon
Our academies
Gloucester
Formerly International Hair and Beauty Academy
Derby
Formerly Infinity Training Academy (Est. 2011)
Student stories
A great many thanks for your course. I found it a very good and well-taught lesson. It helped me rediscover the need to invest in my health and relaxation just as much.
Amy B. — Short Course Learner, Gloucester
I have just completed the Indian head massage course with Nikki. I thoroughly enjoyed it and found it very informative. The teaching style made everything clear and accessible.
Short Course Learner — Cedars Academy
My apprenticeship has been incredibly valuable — training in treatments, client care, and client approach. I feel I have benefitted greatly and am so excited for the future.
Apprenticeship Graduate — Cedars Derby
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know before booking your course. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Our friendly team is always happy to help — get in touch.
We recommend professional salon-style clothing or comfortable black clothing suitable for practical treatments. Please also bring flat comfortable shoes, tie back long hair, wear minimal jewellery, and bring a notepad and pen. Clothing should allow ease of movement for practical sessions.
For many practical courses, learners work with each other during the training day. For some courses a model may be required for a specific assessment. If so, this will be clearly stated in your booking confirmation or course information email.
Yes. All professional products, equipment, and materials needed for the training day are provided by the academy. You do not need to bring your own kit unless specifically advised in advance.
Duration varies depending on the programme. Some courses complete in one or two days, while others run over several weeks or months. Full details are provided on each individual course page.
Yes. Many learners attend for CPD or to refresh skills, learn new techniques, or regain confidence. Our courses are suitable for both qualified therapists expanding their services and those wishing to refresh existing knowledge.
Our courses are suitable for:
- Beginners entering the beauty or holistic therapy industry
- Qualified therapists wanting to add new treatments to their menu
- Therapists looking for CPD or refresher training
Some advanced courses may require previous training, clearly stated in the course details.
Funding depends on the course type. Some programmes may be eligible for government funding or Advanced Learner Loans. Full details are on each course page, or contact our team who will be happy to advise on available options.
Yes. Upon successful completion you will receive a Cedars Training Academy certificate. Depending on the course, this may also be awarded by VTCT, FHT, or ABT — all widely recognised in the industry and supporting professional insurance and CPD.
Yes. We offer PayPal, Klarna, and Clear Pay at checkout. For courses over £1,000, a direct instalment plan may also be available. Please contact our team before booking to check options for your chosen course.
Bookings are subject to our terms and conditions, provided during the booking process. If you are unable to attend, please contact the academy team as soon as possible to discuss available options.
Delivery varies by programme — in-person at one of our academies, online learning, or a blended approach combining practical and remote sessions. The method is clearly outlined in the course information before you book.
Book directly through our website, social media pages, or by contacting the academy team. Spaces are limited to ensure high-quality practical training, so early booking is recommended.
Ready to start your journey?
Explore our courses, speak to our team, and take the first step toward your dream career.