The South African Association of Health and Skincare Professionals (SAAHSP) proudly introduces the Grading Initiative - A program designed to raise professionalism, ethical compliance and quality in the spa, salon, distributor, and training sectors. By setting clear standards and ensuring stakeholders operate within these guidelines, the initiative strengthens credibility and trust across the industry.

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​Why the Grading Process Was Developed ?

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The SAAHSP Grading Process addresses key challenges in the health and skincare industry, such as therapists working beyond their scope of practice and unqualified individuals providing training. These issues have led to inconsistent service delivery and unprepared therapists. This initiative promotes ethical practices by identifying and supporting operations that adhere to statutory and regulatory requirements. For those already compliant, grading is a seamless process. For others, it serves as a guide for aligning with industry standards.

 

As a SAQA-registered Professional Body, SAAHSP uses this initiative to ensure all members uphold ethical practices and professional standards, creating a skilled and accountable industry.

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How does the SAAHSP Grading Process Work? 

 

The grading process has three stages, each building on the last to recognize and support excellence:

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1. Bronze Status (Free for Members)

   • Automatically awarded to all SAAHSP members who declare compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements.

2. Silver Status (R2,850)

   • A questionnaire and validation process confirm compliance with declared requirements.

   • The fee covers validation, certification, auditing, and reporting.

3. Gold Status (R4,500)

   • Involves an in-depth review of the business’s full operational process, ensuring alignment with industry best practices.

 

Each stage is designed to encourage continuous improvement while recognizing businesses committed to professionalism and quality.

 

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​​SAAHSP School Grading Guidelines:

South African therapists are internationally sought after, thanks to their rigorous training. The grading process for schools ensures that high-quality education remains a cornerstone of the industry.

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• Bronze Grading:

  • For schools registered with SAAHSP and holding valid certification.

  • All students must be registered with SAAHSP.

• Silver Grading:

  • Requires a SETA Services Accreditation Letter and QAP QCTO certification.

  • All students must be SAAHSP members.

• Gold Grading:

  • Schools must have a CHE Certificate or Higher Diploma for Educational Facilities.

  • Require Services SETA/QCTO and Cidesco/Itec certifications based on South African qualifications.

• Platinum Grading (from 2024):

  • Reserved for schools with over 15 years of SAAHSP registration, consistent transparent offerings, and a fully implemented Quality Management System.

  • Must include a complaints management system, a satisfaction/improvement program, and an alumni group.

  • All students must be registered with SAAHSP.

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The SAAHSP Grading Initiative Provides Significant Benefits:​

• For Spas, Salons, and Distributors:

  • Establishes credibility, builds client trust, and ensures compliance with standards.

• For Training Institutions:

  • Recognizes excellence in education, attracts more students, and enhances global reputation.

• For Therapists:

  • Provides clarity on their scope of practice, ensures ethical alignment, and supports professional growth.

 

By participating in the grading process, stakeholders demonstrate their commitment to excellence, earning greater recognition and success.

 

Call to Action

Take the first step towards excellence and join the SAAHSP Grading Initiative today! Whether you are a spa owner, salon manager, distributor, or training provider - this process will set you apart and establish your commitment to professionalism and quality.

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For more information or to begin the grading process, contact us directly – info@saahsp.co.za.

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