elite school of beauty & spa

What elite school of beauty & spa does

Elite School of Beauty & Spa is a New Zealand-based vocational training institution specializing in beauty therapy, spa therapy, and makeup education. Operating as a trading name of Yoobee Colleges Ltd within the UP Education network, the school is registered as a Private Training Establishment with NZQA and delivers NZQA-aligned qualifications at Levels 3, 4, and 5. Its core curriculum comprises the Certificate in Skin Care and Cosmetics (Level 3, 16 weeks), the Certificate in Beauty Therapy (Level 4, 32 weeks), and the Diploma in Beauty & Spa Therapy (Level 5, 32 weeks), with the Level 5 programme aligned to CIDESCO international standards and offering an optional CIDESCO diploma. The school is also approved to deliver CIBTAC certifications. Heritage traces to 1973 when Joyce Blok founded the Beauty Therapy College of New Zealand, and the Elite brand itself dates to a 1999 launch in Albany.

Delivery occurs across three primary campuses — Auckland (Queen Street), Hamilton (Bryce Street), and Wellington (Willis Street) — equipped with industry-standard technology including electric beauty beds, portable makeup stations, professional studio mirrors, OBSERV 320 skin analysis, LED Celluma light therapy, and microdermabrasion and dermaplaning machines. Training emphasizes hands-on client experience through supervised Client Treatment Days and a six-week industry internship within the Level 5 programme. The school trains nearly 1,000 students per year and supports specialized pathways including STAR Taster Courses and Gateway Programmes for secondary school students, Youth Guarantee funded free study for 16–24 year olds, and a dedicated sensory space plus Learner Success Coordinators for neurodivergent learners.

The business model combines government-subsidized domestic tuition (NZ$10,290–20,581 annually), full-fee international tuition (NZ$14,500–26,000 plus course fees), compulsory Student Services Levies, course consumables and uniform sales, and revenue from Client Treatment Days. Marketing is multi-channel, centered on Open Days, career expos, secondary school outreach through Gateway/STAR, and digital channels, with go-to-market relying heavily on direct-to-consumer enrollment via the website and the Enroller online portal for international students. Distribution is reinforced by an extensive network of channel partners providing product sponsorship (Ultraceuticals, Pure Fiji, Tuel, Morgan Taylor, Gelish, Elleebana, Berodin Wax, Youngblood, Azure Tan) and direct employment pipelines with major employers including Caci (40+ NZ clinics), Ragdale Hall UK, Endota Spa, Onboard Spa by Steiner, and The Cosmetic Clinic.

Name

elite school of beauty & spa

Legal name

Yoobee Colleges Ltd

Website

https://elitebeautyschool.co.nz

Company type

Private

Founded year

1999

Operating status

Operating

Short description

Elite School of Beauty & Spa is a New Zealand-based NZQA-registered vocational institution training nearly 1,000 beauty, spa, and makeup therapy students annually across three campuses, operating within the Yoobee Colleges Ltd and UP Education network with CIDESCO-aligned curricula and global employer placement partnerships.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Headquarters

HQ city

Auckland

HQ country

New Zealand

HQ region

Oceania

Offices3 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2C

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Technology or R&D, Infrastructure, Supply Chain

Revenue model

1. Domestic Student Tuition: Government-subsidized tuition fees for eligible domestic students. Level 3 Certificate costs $10,290/year, Level 4 Certificate costs $13,658/year, Level 5 Diploma costs $20,581/year. Fee-free options available through Youth Guarantee and Fees Free schemes.
2. International Student Tuition: Full-fee international student tuition. Level 3: $14,500 + $1,000 course fee; Level 5: $26,000 + $2,000 course fee. Subject to 0.89% international student levy.
3. Student Services Levy: Compulsory Student Services Levy (CSSL): $410 for 80-120 credit programmes, $205 for programmes up to 60 credits. Covers counselling, wellbeing, sports/recreation, learner support, and careers guidance.
4. Course Consumables and Materials: Course consumable costs ranging from $1,000 to $2,114 depending on programme. Uniform costs from $140.50 to $380 depending on items selected.
5. Client Treatment Services: Students practice on real clients who pay for services at discounted rates during client treatment days at campuses. Revenue supports practical training experience.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion5 records

Distribution channels4 records

Marketing channels6 records

Core offering

Elite School of Beauty & Spa delivers NZQA-registered beauty therapy, spa therapy, and makeup training programmes across three New Zealand campuses (Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington). The institution offers a tiered qualification pathway from Level 3 Certificate in Skin Care and Cosmetics through Level 4 Certificate in Beauty Therapy to Level 5 Diploma in Beauty & Spa Therapy, with optional CIDESCO international certification. Training combines classroom theory with hands-on practice on real clients in campus salons using industry-standard equipment.

Product overview

Elite School of Beauty & Spa is a vocational beauty therapy training institution offering a tiered suite of NZQA-registered programmes across Levels 3, 4, and 5. The portfolio spans the Certificate in Skin Care and Cosmetics (Level 3, 16 weeks), the Certificate in Beauty Therapy (Level 4, 32 weeks), and the Diploma in Beauty & Spa Therapy (Level 5, 32 weeks), each building progressively from foundational client care and skincare skills to advanced spa therapy and business competency. An optional CIDESCO international certification can be added to the Level 5 programme. The institution also offers supplementary offerings including STAR Taster Courses and School Holiday Programmes for secondary school students, Youth Guarantee-funded free study options, and Client Treatment Days where students gain real-world salon experience. The programmes are delivered across three campuses in Auckland, Hamilton, and Wellington, with industry partnerships providing product access and employment pathways.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• Certificate in Skin Care and Cosmetics (Level 3) A 16-week entry-level programme equipping students with foundational skills in skincare consultations, beauty makeup application, retail customer experience, and client care, preparing graduates for assistant roles in the beauty industry or progression to Level 4.
• Certificate in Beauty Therapy (Level 4) A 32-week intermediate programme covering a broad range of beauty therapy services including waxing, facials, massage, electrical equipment use, manicures, pedicures, and nail services, aligned with industry standards and preparing students for entry-level beauty industry jobs.
• New Zealand Diploma in Beauty & Spa Therapy (Level 5) A 32-week advanced programme aligned with CIDESCO international standards, covering advanced skincare therapy techniques (chemical peels, dermaplaning, microdermabrasion, OBSERV 320 skin analysis, LED Celluma light therapy), lash and brow treatments, business skills, and a six-week industry internship.
• CIDESCO International Certification An optional international beauty therapy examination offered to students, providing the highest internationally recognised qualification in the beauty industry and enhancing job prospects in New Zealand and abroad.
• STAR Taster Courses and School Holiday Programme Taster courses and holiday programmes for secondary school students, providing introductory exposure to the beauty industry with opportunities to earn NZQA Level 2 and 3 credits.
• Youth Guarantee Programme A government-funded free study programme for New Zealand citizens and permanent residents aged 16 to 24, offering free tuition for up to one year across eligible full-year beauty courses.
• Client Treatment Days Practical training sessions at all Elite campuses where students perform beauty and spa treatments on real paying clients in a supervised salon environment, providing hands-on industry experience before graduation.

Quantifiable outcome

• Nearly 1,000 beauty therapists trained annually
• +1 more outcomes

Named customers13 records

Segments5 records

Ideal customer profiles5 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature2 records

Partnerships

18 partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.

• Caci CliniccoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorKey industry partner hiring Beauty Therapists with Level 5 Diploma skills. Each year Caci offers Elite students work experience, internship opportunities, in-depth clinic tours, expert guest speakers on campus, and full-time employment offers. Caci operates over 40 locations nationwide.
• Ragdale Hall (UK)coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorLeading UK health spa offering 12 months employment for Level 5 Elite graduates who have gained international qualifications and meet UK work visa requirements. Provides access to Clarins and Elemis products, external training opportunities, and optional staff accommodation.
• Onboard Spa by SteinercoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorSteiner operates beauty therapy spas on cruise ships for P&O Cruises, Disney Cruiseliners, and Princess Cruises. Offers yearly campus visits, recruitment manager interviews up to four times annually, career presentations, and travel opportunities while working onboard.
• Laser Clinics NZminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorPartner providing work experience and internship opportunities for Elite students. Laser Clinics has been helping clients since 2008 with medically backed treatments delivered by trained professionals.
• Endota SpacoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorPartner creating opportunities for work experience and internships. Endota is passionate about nurturing great therapists with induction training, workshops, and seminars. Strong culture of promoting from within, with many Spa Managers starting as therapists.
• The Cosmetic CliniccoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorKey partner hiring both beauty therapists and laser technicians. Part of global network of over 60 clinics founded in 1996. Provides affordable, accessible cosmetic treatments using medical grade equipment in high quality facilities.
• UltraceuticalscoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAustralia's leading cosmeceutical-grade skincare brand. Every Level 5 student uses Ultraceuticals products with personalized skin consultations, skincare programs, guest speaker sessions, and opportunity to become Campus Ambassador winning trip to Sydney.
• Pure FijicoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorProducts handcrafted from South Pacific and Fiji island traditions using coconut oil and flower extracts. Ecologically friendly brand with wild-harvested botanical ingredients. Students train with Pure Fiji products throughout their programmes.
• Tuel SkincarecoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ Distributor100% vegan skincare brand made in California since 1979. Free of phthalates, sulphates, parabens, mineral oil, synthetic dyes, and fragrances. Supports diverse learners with same values. Students train with Tuel products in beauty programmes.
• The Beauty AssemblyminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorBrand providing exceptional products with personalized service and expert advice. Works closely with partners to provide tailored solutions. Every Level 5 student uses their products throughout the programme.
• Youngblood CosmeticsminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorMineral cosmetics brand formulated with clean ingredients gentle on sensitive skin. 100% natural minerals including titanium dioxide, iron oxides, and mica fortified with plant extracts. Nearly 25 years of trusted use by makeup artists worldwide.
• Cosmetologists NZminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ Distributor100% NZ owned supplier of pro-grade beauty brands including Tuel skincare. Team of ex-salon owners, beauty therapists, and business graduates. Works with customers to build businesses through education, customer experience, and marketing support.
• Morgan TaylorcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorProfessional nail lacquer brand created by nail artists for nail artists. Known for quality, consistent high-performing products with wide palette of fashion-forward colours. Every Level 4 & 5 student trains with Morgan Taylor products.
• GelishcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorGlobal leader in professional nail systems, famous for innovative Soak-Off Gel Polish packaged in bottle with brush. Every Level 4 & 5 student trains with Gelish products throughout programme.
• ElleebanacoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorGlobally recognized beauty brand specializing in lash lifting and eyelash extensions. Name derived from Australian Indigenous word meaning peace, tranquility, and beauty. Every Level 5 student trains with Elleebana products as part of their programme.
• Azure TanminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorTanning products with active ingredients designed to repair, rejuvenate, hydrate, protect, and nourish skin. Unique colour-correcting technology for cool and warm undertones with no orange finish. Every Level 5 student uses Azure Tan products.
• Berodin WaxcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorTrusted name in professional waxing systems combining innovation with ease of use. Gentle yet effective results through advanced formulations. Every Level 4 & 5 student works with Berodin Wax with hands-on training as part of their course.
• Yoobee Colleges Limited (Parent)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerElite School of Beauty & Spa is one of the trading names for registered PTE Yoobee Colleges Limited, one of NZ's largest Private Training Establishments with 7000 students across five schools. Part of UP Education network.

Scale indicators4 records

Recent moves11 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Others

• Steiner Education Group: International cruise ship spa operator that recruits from Elite via Onboard Spa partnership. Functions as both a graduate employer pipeline and a benchmark for international placement economics relevant to Elite's outbound mobility story.
• Yoobee Colleges (Parent entity): The parent PTE under which Elite operates, with 7,000+ students across five schools including Elite. Provides institutional context for Elite's distribution, marketing, and capital allocation within the wider UP Education group.
• NZ School of Tourism: Sister school under Yoobee Colleges, co-located with Elite on Queen Street Auckland. Operates a similar PTE business model with government-funded vocational programmes; useful for cross-school cost and marketing efficiency benchmarking within the same parent.

Direct peers

• Canterbury School of Beauty Therapy: NZQA-registered Christchurch-based beauty therapy school offering Level 3-5 programmes with CIDESCO affiliation. Comparable curriculum and qualification framework; serves a different geographic catchment, providing regional market context.
• Cut Above Academy: Sister school under Yoobee Colleges Ltd / UP Education, co-located with Elite on Queen Street Auckland. Offers hairdressing and barbering vocational training with similar NZQA framework delivery and shared parent infrastructure — directly comparable business model and customer segment.
• The International Beauty Institute: NZ-based private training establishment offering beauty therapy and makeup artistry qualifications at Levels 3-5. Competes head-to-head with Elite on international certification pathways and graduate employment outcomes.
• New Zealand Institute of Beauty: NZ-based NZQA-registered beauty therapy school offering diploma and certificate programmes. Directly competes with Elite on curriculum level, target students, and graduate outcomes within the same domestic fee-free funding landscape.

Regional players

• Body Beautiful Beauty Therapy College: Western Australia-based beauty training provider offering CIDESCO-affiliated diplomas. Operates a similar multi-campus vocational model with industry-aligned curriculum, relevant for benchmarking regional peer economics.
• Australian Beauty Therapy Academy: Australia's longest-running beauty school, founded 1961, offering CIDESCO-affiliated diplomas across multiple campuses. Closest Australian counterpart in curriculum depth, international credentialing, and market positioning — relevant for cross-Tasman comparative analysis.

Emerging players

• AACDS (Australasian Academy of Cosmetic Dermal Science): Australia-focused provider of advanced aesthetics and dermal therapy education with a Level 5 Graduate Diploma pathway. Comparable in higher-end technical curriculum and international student focus, with a stronger clinical/dermal lean.

Market position

Strengths1 record

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• Facebookfacebook.com/EliteSchoolBeauty
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/elite-school-of-beauty-spa

Compliance1 record

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles5 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about elite school of beauty & spa