Lush launches living wage beauty apprenticeship pilot

Noah Miller 08/06/2026

In a move that promises to refresh the beauty industry workforce, Lush has launched an exciting new apprenticeship programme designed to open doors for young people looking to build rewarding careers in cosmetics and spa services.

This initiative isn’t just about on-the-job training; it’s about offering paid, structured education. The scheme is piloting across Lush’s London spa locations in partnership with the specialist training provider Armonia, aiming to turn passion into professional qualifications.

The programme is specifically targeting young individuals aged 16 to 24 who are not currently in education, employment, or training (NEET). To make this opportunity genuinely accessible and attractive, Lush is offering participants 30 hours of paid work per week at a competitive starting wage of £14.80 per hour.

Participants won’t just gain experience; they will receive tangible qualifications. The apprenticeship combines practical, hands-on experience within the dynamic environment of the Lush Spas with technical education delivered at Armonia’s facility in Selby, Yorkshire. This dual approach ensures that apprentices develop both industry-specific skills and accredited knowledge.

Through this unique setup, young trainees will be working alongside seasoned professionals while simultaneously pursuing Level 2 and Level 3 beauty therapy qualifications, equipping them with the necessary credentials to enter the sector confidently.

The motivation behind this ambitious programme is rooted in a recognition of the growing investment needed in workforce development. As the beauty sector continues its rapid growth, there is an urgent need to attract new talent and ensure greater accessibility to high-quality career pathways.

By offering higher-paid apprenticeship opportunities, Lush is actively addressing skills shortages while setting a benchmark for living wages within the industry. It signals a commitment to improving working conditions and ensuring that the people creating beauty experiences are fairly compensated for their skills.

With successful piloting in London, plans are already underway to expand this transformative initiative across England, promising to create numerous opportunities for young people to pursue exciting, skilled careers in the world of beauty and wellness.