Diploma in Oncology Massage & Cancer Care

Specialise in oncology massage with this FHT-accredited 3 day diploma, designed to support clients with cancer safely and effectively.

Course Overview

This 3-day programme provides the knowledge, skills and even some course experience, for therapists who wish to open their doors to those being treated for, recovering from or living with cancer.

Historically, the massage, beauty and spa sectors have restricted, and even contraindicated clients affected by cancer. This emanates from four key areas: – Fear, lack of knowledge, robust training and insurance to practice oncology treatments, such as massage and facials. Consequently, for many therapists there has been a desire to help, but this has been overshadowed for the aforementioned reasons.

Despite these restrictions, and over the last 20 years, many individuals and organisations have worked tirelessly to change this – thus creating robust training programmes, full of medical and clinical knowledge and guidance to make it possible for therapists to lose the fear and open their doors.

With sobering statistics from world health experts, it is predicted that one in two people will experience some form of cancer in their lifetime. For this reason, it is more important than ever to support clients who are living with cancer or have a history of cancer.

There are numerous global studies to support the use of light touch, gentle massage to ease the burden of cancer related side effects. Massage has been shown to be safe, effective and is the most sought-after complimentary therapy in cancer care.

This 3-day programme is taught by award winning educator and Principal of the School of Natural Therapies (SNT), Marc Innes, who has a medical background spanning 23 years in the NHS.

Alongside Marc is the Director of Remedial Massage studies at SNT, Joseph O’Dwyer, who co-teaches this course.

In 2019, Marc Innes was presented with an award from the TPOT (The Power of Touch) foundation for Inspirational Trainer of the Year, for his work in oncology education, massage and touch therapy.

The course is accredited by FHT (15 CPD points) and adheres to the standards of education set by the Standards Authority for Touch in Cancer Care (SATCC) of which Marc is an advisory board member since its inception.

Standards Authority for Touch in Cancer Care logo

Working with massage under Joseph’s guidance is also a great opportunity for therapists to become acquainted with vital information on the fascial network, movement and myofascial lines, all of which are disrupted by cancer related surgery. This always results in loss of range of movement, pain and dysfunction.

This is a gifted opportunity to learn some remedial techniques alongside massage, which is adapted for clients being treated for, living with, or recovering from cancer related surgery.

For beauty and spa therapists attending this programme, we will cover topics such as skincare and hand & foot rituals specifically adapted for clients with compromised health. 

Attendance Type
In-person
Qualification
Diploma (15 CPD Points)
Duration
3 day course

Accredited by

Course Fees

Deposit
£257
Cost
£482

The course fees include the following:

  • A guided and dynamic learning environment, with tutor support.
  • Comprehensive course manual.
  • Accredited Diploma Certificate.
  • Access to recommended insurance.
  • Membership of the Standards Authority for Touch in Cancer Care (SATCC) for 1 year*
  • On successful completion, access to the SATCC register’s FIND A THERAPIST listing, as an independent therapist who offers oncology massage.
  • Access to volunteers during the course – this means supervised practice with clients who are being treated for, recovering from or are living with cancer.
  • A friendly and relaxed learning environment.

To reserve your place, you will need to pay your course deposit of £257.00 via the website.

The balance of the course fee of £225.00* will need to be paid one month before the course start date.

If booking less than one month before the course start date, the balance of payment will need to be paid in full, within 2 days of making the deposit payment.

Alternatively, to pay the full course fee of £482.00, please call us on: – 0203 544 6544.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirement – U.K. recognised and regulated Diploma at Level 3 or above, which must include a form of massage, alongside Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology. Examples would include ITEC/VTCT, CIBTAC, CIDESCO.

Beauty and spa qualifications are also accepted, providing they are grader at level 3 or above and meet the regulatory requirements for UK awarded qualifications. Examples are CIBTAC, CIDESCO, ITEC/VTCT

Please check with us if you are unsure as to whether your qualification meets our requirements.

Course Structure

This three-day  Diploma in Oncology Massage & Cancer Care consists of 9 learning outcomes, detailed below: –

  • What is cancer?
  • How does it develop in the human body?
  • Types of cancer according to body tissue
  • Definition of malignant v’s benign
  • How cancer is staged and graded
  • Risk factors associated with cancer development in the human body.

Discovering new words and terminology when discussing or reading consultation forms with cancer information. This is highly relevant when discussing case history and intake forms for the consultation process.

We look closely at modern treatment regimes and the latest developments in treating cancer.

We will discover how treatments such as Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy and Immunotherapy amongst other common treatments can affect the human body – this also includes side effects from drug regimes.

As a consequence, where we need to make massage adjustments and adapt treatments for the client’s wellbeing and experience.

An awareness of any potential contraindications that may need to be discussed with the individual client.

One important aspect to consider are the short- and longer-term effects of surgery and clients often need massage intervention and remedial work to help alleviate mobility issues and discomfort.

The Fascial Network is vital to consider and we will also discover the fascial network and it’s characteristics and composition – movement & myofascial lines –  the body’s repair mechanism and the formation of scar tissue.

Student’s will have an opportunity to observe Joseph working on client(s) and will be invited to take part in remedial techniques such as scar tissue work, stretching and appropriate remedial massage.

Discovering the side-effects of other cancer treatments, including: –

  • Chemotherapy
  • Radiotherapy (types, inernal and external, conformity, etc.
  • Cyberknife/Proton Beam
  • Cancer targeted drugs
  • Hormonal Therapy
  • Immunotherapy

Considerations for caution and adaptions and contraindications

Another important consideration, particularly with massage is clients who are at risk of lymphoedema following certain cancer treatments – we discuss these treatments and discover how lymphoedema can develop, risk factors, etc.

We re-visit the role and function a knowledge of the lymphatic system and an understanding of the development of this common side effect, associated with cancer treatment(s).

Some clients may also present with active secondary lymphoedema – therefore we discuss treatment strategies and adaptations to massage and touch therapy.

We will also discover a practical 6-step lymphatic protocol and work with this with all clients who visit us during the practical sessions during the course.

 

What are the ingredients that should not be used on compromised skin, as a potential side effect of cancer treatment?

What should be avoided during cancer treatment and what recommended and appropriate massage mediums and skincare are advised? – very relevant to spa services and beauty treatments in particular.

Lifestyle recommendations and dietary studies for cancer prevention.

During the course, we will have plenty of time to practice massage and appropriate adjustments to bodywork, as and where required. During the course we will also invite in some real-life case studies, from willing volunteers who kindly give us their time and knowledge of their cancer journey for our experience in treating clients with cancer. All client treatments are supervised during the agreed treatment plan.

Assessment

  • Learners will be continuously assessed throughout the course programme.
  • We will be monitoring practical performance and the consultation process, using a detailed intake form for our volunteer clients.
  • Learners will also be required to undertake a 25-question multiple choice exam paper for the theory element of this course.
  • Supervised Practice – on day three, a treatment and an assessment on a real client, who will have a history of cancer and will be treated by the learners alongside a detailed intake form.

Course Dates

September 2026 Intake

Battersea, London
Fully booked
Date & Time Location
Monday 21 September 2026
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM
Unit 57, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Tuesday 22 September 2026
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM
Unit 57, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Wednesday 23 September 2026
09:30 AM – 16:00 PM
Unit 57, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Lesson 1

Monday 21 September 2026
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM

Location: Unit 57, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL

Lesson 2

Tuesday 22 September 2026
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM

Location: Unit 57, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL

Lesson 3

Wednesday 23 September 2026
09:30 AM – 16:00 PM

Location: Unit 57, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL

Fully booked

November 2026 Intake

Battersea, London
Date & Time Location
Monday 16 November 2026
09:00 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 45, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Tuesday 17 November 2026
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM
Unit 45, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Wednesday 18 November 2026
09:30 AM – 16:00 PM
Unit 45, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Lesson 1

Monday 16 November 2026
09:00 AM – 17:00 PM

Location: Unit 45, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL

Lesson 2

Tuesday 17 November 2026
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM

Location: Unit 45, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL

Lesson 3

Wednesday 18 November 2026
09:30 AM – 16:00 PM

Location: Unit 45, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL

Group Booking

Managing a spa, salon, or wellness group and need tailored training for your team? For bespoke course options and pricing, explore our training for teams.

Opportunities

  • Therapists will be able to advertise their services for clients wanting a treatment during cancer treatment, recovery, or living long term with their condition.
  • Addition to the SATCC register of trained therapists
  • Volunteers are often called for in a hospital/hospice setting
  • Students who wish to work with clients in post-surgery, reconstructive surgery and recovery, may enrol on our forthcoming advanced diploma course, which extends their knowledge and skills, in order to assess, treat and provide homecare and rehabilitation service and advice.

Tutors

Joseph O'Dwyer, Director of Sport & Remedial Studies

Joseph O'Dwyer

Director of Sport & Remedial Studies

Marc Innes, School Principal

Marc Innes

School Principal

Latest Reviews

Google Icon 4.8
★★★★★
(198 Reviews)

Read our verified course reviews, submitted by real students, and explore all our testimonials on Google Reviews.

Christine Aymes
I recently attended the course ‘Diploma in Oncology Massage and Cancer Care’ run by The School of Natural Therapies in London and I can highly recommend it. The course was superb, really interesting and inspiring. Marc and Joseph were both excellent teachers with a wealth of knowledge and expertise between them. The learning environment was very relaxed and friendly as my fellow students were from a variety of backgrounds in natural therapies which also enhanced my learning. A comprehensive manual and opportunity for practising techniques were provided with instruction given of the highest standard by the teachers. I have already booked in for my next course with this school. Thank you guys ♥️
2 December 2025
Ariel Moreton
I attended this course in July. It was hugely valuable – we were given lots of information and context about how cancer originates and spreads, the physical and emotional after effects of cancer and how massage can help (some helpful myth-busting around massage and cancer was also discussed!). We also had the great privilege of working directly with clients who had been through cancer treatments and were able to adapt our treatments to each client and directly employ our skills in situ. This was hugely valuable to really get grips with how to apply our skills and just how varied the disease is in terms of the needs of each client. I believe every therapist should have these skills and be able to provide safe treatments for those affected by cancer.
Percy Luis Aguilar Simon
I want to thank you both for giving me the chance to experience this training, and for the wonderful experience of treating the people with cancer today. I could say, today has been one of the most wonderful days in my life making the change in peoples life with the work done. Today after hearing the feed-back and seeing how they started glowing and the happiness they expressed has been a wonderful and an Amazing gift! My words are small to expressed the jolly and happiness in my heart and soul! And no words are enough to thank you, you both, for this wonderful gift! A huge and strong hug to you both! And please keep putting the amazing work you do out there in the world!
20 February 2025
Stepanka Vranova
The School of Natural therapies was one of my best experience in studying. The teachers (Marc and Joseph) were amazing and they were so passionate about their work. Very knowledgeable very easy to approach to answer any format of question . I would recommend this school and this course to everyone.
6 March 2025
Marion Kapellas, Spa Manager, Aman Spa, The Connaught, Mayfair, London W1
The training provided invaluable insights, tools, and techniques to support guests during their treatment or recovery journey. Our team is now equipped to deliver therapy to the highest and safest standards. It was a well-designed program that offered the perfect approach for our team to confidently support guests living with cancer.
Max Mora
The School of Natural Therapies Oncology Massage and Cancer Care level 3 diploma course is excellent. Three days of comprehensive learning about cancer types, diagnosis, staging, genomics, treatments, and how to deliver bodywork safely for people living with and beyond cancer. The final afternoon saw volunteers with cancer attending for students to deliver a session to complete our learning. The fact that these volunteers return again and again speaks volumes about the quality of teaching by Marc and Joseph, and the care they take with both their students and their volunteers. I completed the course confident that I now hold the knowledge necessary to deliver beautiful bodywork for people living with and beyond cancer. The course is also recognised by the SATCC for its quality and depth of content. Thank you Marc and Joseph!
21 September 2025
Sian Holland
I recently completed the L3 Diploma in Oncology Massage, and I can’t recommend this training highly enough. Marc and Joseph were simply outstanding trainers - deeply knowledgeable, incredibly intelligent, and wonderfully empathetic in their approach. They created an environment where complex material felt accessible, and their ability to blend clinical expertise with genuine compassion was second to none. Every session was not just informative, but also inspiring, equipping me with both technical skills and the confidence to support clients with sensitivity and care. This training is a gold standard—well structured, engaging, and delivered with the highest level of professionalism. If you are considering furthering your skills in oncology massage, I would wholeheartedly recommend Marc and Joseph. Their guidance has been truly transformational.
26 September 2025
Juan Carlos Recuero Serrano
I truly believe this course has changed the way I see massage and what it can bring to people. As a Sports Massage Therapist (also trained in this school), my focus was on helping clients with physical problems. With Oncology Massage, I’ve learned that massage goes far beyond the physical – it can touch people on an emotional and personal level too. Meeting people on their cancer journey and being able to talk with them before and after treatment has opened my eyes. The impact is more personal, more caring, more meaningful, more rewarding than I ever imagined. Seeing patients feel grateful, more relaxed, both physically and mentally, even for a short time, has been life-changing for me. Thanks to Marc and Joseph, I now understand the true meaning of “helping people.” I can’t thank you enough for this opportunity and all the support you gave us. This school has already changed my career twice, and I will keep coming back without hesitation.
11 September 2025
Julie Barton-Caldwell
I've recently completed the Diploma in Oncology Massage & Cancer Care training with Marc and Joseph. This course was comprehensive in it's information but Marc and Joseph have a calm and motivational way of getting the information across giving you confidence to use your new found knowledge. I thoroughly enjoyed the course and would love to do more training with The School of Natural Therapies and highly recommend their training.
1 October 2025
Martin Goddard
I have attended several courses with the SNT, the standard is the best I have experienced. The tutors are excellent and course material and practical teaching have made me a better therapist every time
28 November 2025
Kanjanarawan Lees
I recently completed the Oncology Massage Course at The school of Natural Therapies and I had a wonderful experience. The course was very informative, well-organized, and professionally delivered. Marc and Joseph were knowledgeable supportive and created a welcoming learning environment. I now feel much more confident working with oncology clients. Thank you for providing such an excellent course!
25 February 2026
Laetitia Llorja
I am still buzzing after these 3 days of Oncology Massage training with Marc and Joseph. They are incredibly knowledgeable and approachable, and created such a supportive learning environment.
15 May 2026
Chris Shaw
I completed the 3 day Oncology massage course recently and found it extremely worthwhile, breaking down some of the myths that surround the subject and replacing them with facts & practical teaching. Thanks to Marc & Joseph for their expertise and guidance.
15 May 2026
Karly Harris
Absolutely loved the last 3 days, its made me want to learn even more. The way massage can make people feel even in there darkest days is amazing. Thank you to Marc and Joseph for teaching us new skills and giving us so much knowledge.
15 May 2026
Eugenie Amerette
Such an inspiring course, thank you so much every one, for the presence and the energy that you brought with you 🙏🏼✨🤍 I'm so grateful !
15 May 2026
Sam Hewitt
The last 3 days truly have been inspiring. The way Marc and Joseph delivered their knowledge and expertise, i know for sure will help us grow in this field. Thanks again x
15 May 2026
Roxana C.
Can’t recommend this course enough. I didn’t want a break, I didn’t want to finish. It was that good. Packed with up to date relevant information. Marc and Josef are great tutors and hearing their stories really helped solidify why this is relevant, why they’re always keeping up with new information. The exam day was truly humbling, we got to meet the most amazing survivors and the openness and trust they’ve showed to us was something unforgettable.
16 May 2026

FAQs

If you have any questions about this course, please do not hesitate to contact us and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.

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Diploma in Oncology Massage & Cancer Care
  Specialised Training
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Our Venue

Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL