It's the only method of training that I know of targetted specifically at hypertrophy, based on scientific studies focused on the same. Muscle is muscle, level of experience doesn't change that.
I just started my brother on a basic HST plan, I think that it's better for beginners than many other plans, like, say, Max-OT, which challenges beginners to push themselves for "maximum overload". This is probably not a good idea since beginners usually have pretty bad form. The light workouts at the start of and HST cycle help to improve form and strengthen connective tissue, which are two things that newbies are typically in great need of.
That said, I started my brother on leg press as opposed to squats, which is my favorite exercise simply because I planned it woth him on the phone and I won't be able to train with him as he is 5 provinces away.