City of Bath College students are now selling locally-made lavender products after winning over the company’s owners with their professionalism.
Level 3 Complementary Therapy students visited Somerset Lavender to find out more about how essential oils were distilled in May last year.
They had no idea the outing would be the start of a business initiative between the College and family-run business in the village of Faukland, near Radstock.
But learning how lavender goes from the field to the bottle turned out to be the start of the partnership which will boost their employability skills.
Somerset Lavender products are now on sale at The Academy Spa in the College’s Roper Building and students are learning to advise clients on the best products for their skin type as part of their course.
Complementary Therapy Lecturer Diana Rowe said: “It’s really important for students to learn some skills in selling products. Part of the course is learning how to be pro-active when recommending suitable products for clients.
“Lavender is a great way to help people relax so these new products can be used as aftercare for clients to continue their relaxation.
“Lots of people come to a spa to relax but they don’t know how to relax themselves at home.”
The assortment of Somerset Lavender products including massage oil, body lotion, pillow mist and hand cream are already selling well with prices starting at £5.
Diana added: “These are essential oils of the highest quality and we are very proud to be selling them.
“It all started with a visit to the lavender farm last summer. Now we are working closely with the sustainable company, which will also help the local economy.”
Students visited the five-acre farm to hear the story of owners Francis and Judith Green. The students were told how they plough, plant, weed, harvest and distil essential oil.
The students have remained in touch with the couple and have shown them around the spa facilities at City of Bath College.
Judith of Somerset Lavender said: “The students impressed us from the day they came to visit and we are very much looking forward to working with them in the future. I’m sure they’ll do a great job selling our products.
“We very much like the keenness and professionalism of the students and were also impressed with the facilities at the college.
“Lavender is renowned for being soothing and calming and giving a feeling of well-being so it’s perfect to sell at a spa.”
