Holistic Massage and A & P Diploma (ITEC)
Qualification Gained
Diploma
Introduction
The School of Natural Therapies' ITEC Holistic Massage Diploma Course provides an exciting, dynamic and thoroughly enjoyable learning experience for all students undertaking one of our internationally recognised diplomas. The course provides a vital ‘stepping stone’ for candidates wanting to move into the rapidly growing field of massage and complementary health; after successful completion candidates may also wish to further develop their massage and therapeutic skills on one of our advanced massage workshops or higher diplomas such as sports massage or aromatherapy massage.
With a long standing reputation for learning excellence and on-going tutor support, the School of Natural Therapies' prides itself on ensuring that students are well prepared for the ITEC Diploma examination. On successful completion of the examination, post graduate students will be able to begin a new career or earn additional income in any of the following ways:
- Work in a Health Club, Hotel, Cruise Ship or a Ski Resort
- Set up a practice from a spare room at home
- Study one of our further advanced massage courses such as the BTEC Sports Massage or Aromatherapy
- Supplement your full time income by building your own client base for Massage and Beauty Treatments
- Carry out treatments for family/friends or colleagues
To complete the Diploma, we offer a ‘Fast track’ option, which enables the student to complete the diploma and take the final examination in just 15 days. The weekends are spread over a period of 3 months – so from day 1 of the course to the final assessment and examination, the course is completed in just 13 weeks.
Courses take place in South West London at out popular venue in Clapham close to the common with excellent transport links.
Course Structure
The ITEC Level 3 Diploma in Massage, Anatomy & Physiology is a fast track, intensive course of study designed for those wishing to build the base from which to develop a career in alternative therapies. The course is run by enthusiastic, dedicated ITEC professionals who teach not because they can do but because they love to. The Diploma is comprised of seven independent units or modules including:
ITEC Unit 340 Massage for Complementary Therapies
Students will learn how to evaluate contraindications or cautions that may restrict or prevent treatment, deliver an effective massage treatment in a safe, hygienic and professional manner.
Areas of study include:
- How to prepare for a body massage treatment, in a safe, comfortable work area, in line with current legislation & working practice requirements
- Through effective client consultation, learn how to respond to any presenting contra-indications and provide a safe, appropriate and comfortable massage treatment as appropriate for the individual client.
- The identification of important body surface landmarks, such as muscles and bones
- The principles of Holistic/Therapeutic Body Massage
- Guidance on how to develop a massage routine for each individual client
- Development of a holistic approach - treating the 'mind, body and spirit'
- The correct application of massage techniques and use of body posture/mechanics by the therapist, in order to prevent mechanical injuries
- The benefits of massage on a physical level
Students will be expected to show evidence of 12 treatments in the form of case studies - culminating in a practical assessment from a visiting ITEC examiner.
ITEC Unit 341 Reflective Practice for Body Massage
(18 Case studies compiled as assignments)
ITEC Unit 346 Knowledge of Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology for Complementary Therapies
(Multiple choice theory test 50 questions – 1 hour paper)
Areas of study include: Human Anatomy and Physiology and Pathology for Complementary Therapies, covering all major systems and their functions:
- Cell Structure, Tissue and Skin Cellular Composition
- Muscular and Skeletal Systems
- Cardiovascular - Heart and Blood Circulation
- Lymphatic System - Lymph glands and production of Tissue Fluid
- Neurological System - Brain and Nervous System
- Endocrine System - Hormonal producing organs and role of hormones in the human body
- Respiratory System - Lungs and air pathways
- Digestive System
- Genito-Urinary System - Kidneys and water metabolism
- Reproductive System
ITEC Unit 347 - Knowledge of Less Common Pathology for Complementary Therapies
(Assignment based learning)
ITEC Unit 348 - Principles and Practice of Complementary Therapies
(Assignment based learning)
ITEC Unit 349 - Business Practice for Complementary Therapies
(Assignment based learning)
Course Requirements
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A genuine desire to learn the art and skill of massage and bodywork and it’s therapeutic values as a complementary treatment
-
Education to GCSE standard is desirable
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Good command of English language is desirable
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Time to compile 6 case studies (12 treatments in total)
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To be prepared to complete at least 5 hours home study per week
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There is an optional recognised first aid course (1 day) which is recognised as good practice in the complementary health industry.
Exam Module
- Clinic Day 3 hrs + mock exam
- ITEC Practical Examination - 1hr
- ITEC Anatomy and Physiology paper - 1hr
- ITEC Massage Theory Paper - 1hr
- Professional Practice and Business Awareness - 1hr
Cost Includes
- 120 hours of guided learning with tutor support for home study
- All relevant massage equipment, towels, oils, etc are provided, including 2 complementary t-shirts to work in for the practical part of the course
- Comprehensive course manuals
- ITEC course book
- The services of a local uniform supplier*
- Exclusive SNT's own DVD with Massage Routine
- First Aid certificate from a Health & Safety Executive (HSE) Approved Training Company
- ITEC Exam Fee
- A friendly and relaxed learning environment
*As part of the final practical examination, students will also be assessed on professional appearance; as such students are required to purchase a suitable massage tunic, (cost around £20.00).
After Qualification
You may wish to undertake further your massage skills in specialised areas, such as Aromatherapy or Sports & Remedial Massage.
You may also wish to enhance your treatment portfolio with other treatments such as:
- Indian Head Massage
- Natural Lift Facial Massage (Facial Rejuvination)
- Organic Skincare (Facial & Body)
- Hot Stone Massage
- Deep Tissue Massage
- Seated Chair/Acupressure Massage
- Hopi Ear Candling
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage
- Pregnancy Massage
- Hands Free Massage
- Specialist Massage of The Shoulder or Muscular Aches and Pains
Professional Membership
On successful completion of the diploma, graduates are also able to register with any number of professional membership associations; this will enhance your professional reputation and standing.
These bodies include:
FHT, CThA/Embody, CMA, The Guild of Beauty Therapists, GCMT, CNHC
Did you know?
The School of Natural Therapies are working to the new ITEC syllabus, which incorporates the new QCF (Qualification Credit Framework) standards. The QCF is at the heart of a major educational reform process in England, Wales & Ireland which allows skills gained (such as this diploma course) to have value and credit in industry needs, opening up collaborative working opportunities between sector skills councils (SSC’s) standards setting bodies (SSB’s) employers and awarding organisations and to suit potential employers needs.
Credits gained in these QCF’s can now count towards future education and university degrees.
Student Testimonials
Submitted by Duncan (Feb 7th 2010)
"Submitted by A&P student (surname withheld), SNT on Dec 19th 2009
“Louise here - just to say that I was so delighted to get my distinction in my exam. I can’t thank you enough for all your help and advice. But most importantly, for making it fun! ”
"
Submitted by Natali (Apr 14th 2009)
"The course gave me much more than I had hoped and expected. I now have the confidence to go out into the world and be a holistic massage therapist and I have learnt so much more about myself that can only lead to me caring for my clients and myself in a rewarding and compassionate way.
I looked forward to every weekend and found that I would leave every Sunday full of an energy and enthusiasm that I have seldom found anywhere else. The course the tutors and my fellow students were fantastic and I am so excited to be continuing with another course next term.
I have made friends that I will probably keep in touch with for the rest of my life.
"
Submitted by Gemma (Dec 14th 2008)
"Thank you so much for all your inspiration, hard work and making this course so enjoyable. You have certainly got me hooked into this way of life! I have enjoyed every minute of it - I am going to be lost one weekend of every month. Thank you for everything.
"
Submitted by Laureen (Nov 21st 2008)
"Have booked the restaurant so we can all celebrate our wonderful results, and wonderful tutors. Nothing short of miraculous getting this old menopausal girl through those exams. Am so chuffed thought I’d grow my nails but 2 clients have already booked for next week. No peace for the wicked!! Thanks so so much again for all your professional tutoring, practical advise and support.
"
| Start | Days | Where | Cost | Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 11th | 15 | Clapham (South) | £1475.00 | Book |
| Oct 23rd | 17 | Clapham (South) | £1475.00 | Book |
| Jan 8th | 15 | Clapham (South) | £1475.00 | Sorry Full! |
| Jan 17th | 16 | Clapham (North) | £1475.00 | Book |
| Apr 2nd | 15 | Clapham (South) | £1475.00 | Book |
| Jun 25th | 15 | Clapham (South) | £1475.00 | Book |
| Sep 17th | 15 | Clapham (South) | £1475.00 | Book |
Video clip from the DVD
ITEC is an international examination board offering a variety of qualifications worldwide.
ITEC provides over 35 qualifications that are UK government accredited by the Office of the Qualifications and Examination Regulator (OFQUAL), on behalf of the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS), and are registered on the National Qualifications Framework in the UK. These ITEC qualifications attract funding from the Learning and Skills Council.
