Frequently Asked Questions

Below is a list of our most commonly asked questions. If you have a question that you are unable to answer then please feel free to Contact Us direct and we will be delighted to help.

Which course is the best starting point?
Our Basic Two Day Course for Butlers and Housekeepers is an excellent way of ensuring that your skills are of the standards required to deem you to be 'professional'. It is suitable for those who are new to private service, or for those who wish to update, refresh and validate their skills. We guarantee that everyone will learn!

I can't take the time off when your courses are running, what can I do instead?  Try our Skills Sessions instead: we design a course for you, which is charged by the hour and takes place at a time to suit you, and only covers the topics which need covering. So if you just want to refresh your service at table, or want to learn how to turn a bed down in the evening, that's what we'll concentrate on!

How well known are the courses?
Our courses are well known amongst those in private service and are particularly loved for their dynamic, hands-on, intensive style. Students who have successfully completed the courses have gone into excellent jobs in private service and many staff who are already employed in private service attend the courses to gain professional validation and to update their skills. Our employers and students hold the courses and training in high regard and many of our students come on our courses after personal recommendations.

I'm just a cleaner. Why would I want to come on your course?
Our courses aim to endorse your professionalism in your chosen career. If you are professionally trained by an establishment such as ours you are no longer "just" anything, but a well-trained, confident professional who can make a real difference to the way you look after your client and the way you see yourself, as well as hugely broadening your employment prospects.

How can I reserve a place on a course?
Complete an application form and return it to us. We will then invoice you for the fee, and upon receipt of payment, your place on the course is guaranteed, subject to minimum numbers. We accept cancellations up to 14 days before the course, but unfortunately after that date payments are not refundable.

Where do the courses take place?
All our courses take place at The London Academy schoolroom at 9, Cotswold Mews, Battersea Square, London SW11 3RA. In addition, we have a private house only 5 minutes away, which we use for practical household activities such as bed-making and dinner parties!

Do I have to have a good knowledge of private service to be accepted on the course?
Students who attend the Advanced Course for Butlers and Housekeepers need already to have either completed the Basic Course, or have proven experience and capability in private service.

What happens if I leave a two-day course after day one, will I get a refund?
Unfortunately not. Our refund policy is clearly outlined in our Terms and Conditions which can be obtained on request.

How many people are on the courses?
Our regular courses are held in our school room and in  a private house, and we keep numbers to a maximum of 7 per course. This means that all students have an opportunity to get their sleeves rolled up and have a go at all the practical activities, as well as ask questions and seek advice and personal attention from our tutors.

To discuss numbers of students on Bespoke Courses, please Contact Us.

I don't speak good English. What is the language requirement?
Students need to have good spoken English, as the course is fast-paced and there is quite a lot of technical language used. Notes are provided in English. We have used interpreters on our tailor-made training for groups from overseas, at the client's expense.

I am shy and don't like talking. Will you make me talk?
Our aim is to make you feel confident in yourself in your profession, and we don't want to make anyone feel uncomfortable. That said, we do need you to show us that you can undertake essential duties such as answering a door or telephone, but we will guide you gently and sensitively, and we can guarantee you that everyone will be supportive.

What is the dress code for courses?
We ask our students to be dressed casually but smartly too - so no jeans. If butlers are attending the Advanced Butler course they will work at an evening dinner party and will be required to wear appropriate clothing. You will be issued with an apron for the duration of the course.

I want my housekeepers in London and my country residence to work in the same way. How can you train them?
Our specialist tutors appreciate the need for consistency and continuity, and they will discuss your requirements with you through our Bespoke Training. They can visit both households and identify the needs of the household and the employer. Once workable systems have been established and are in place, your staff will work to your standards and requirements wherever they are, and you can relax, knowing that everything will run smoothly and efficiently.

I don't know which course to do, how do I choose?
Have a look through the explanations of our courses, and if you have any queries or wish to seek advice, then Contact Us and we will help and guide you.