The Southern Sun Hotels group plans to continue an innovative recruitment and training programme following a successful launch at its Maia Resort and Spa in the Seychelles.

The group also plans to examine the possibility of extending the concept to its other upscale destinations around the world.

Southern Sun opened the US$34m (E27m, £18.2m) Maia retreat, which includes a boutique La Prairie spa, on the Anse Louis beach on the island of Mahé in September 2006.

The recruitment and training process was backed by the Seychelles government and designed to be a holistic, inclusive programme, benefiting the local Seychellois community and utilising local resources.

Prior to opening Maia, Richard Weilers, the managing director of Southern Sun, contacted college-level students across the Seychelles in relevant fields – including spa, hospitality and catering – and offered them an open invitation to apply for positions at the resort.

The recruitment process featured several stages, including an EQ (Emotional Quotient) test designed to assess emotional maturity and attitude.

The training scheme at Maia is ongoing and the general manager, Frederic Vidal, continues to practise yoga every morning with his staff as part of their continuing development. Customer feedback on the staff has been excellent, according to Vidal. Details: www.maia.com.sc