BTEC Level 5 Bridging Programme in Clinical Sports & Remedial Massage

Transition to an advanced qualification with the BTEC Level 5 Bridging Programme. This 6 month course is designed for experienced therapists seeking to upskill.

Course Overview

The School of Natural Therapies Level 5 Diploma in Clinical Sport & Remedial Massage Course is open to learners who have already completed our ITEC Level 3 Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy; we also accept the equivalent qualification from another school or learning establishment, providing it meets the criteria as a UK regulated qualification, issued from an awarding body such as ITEC/VTCT/City & Guilds, etc.

This course is also open to qualified or student practitioners of disciplines, such as:

  • Graduates of Physiotherapy, Osteopathy, Chiropractic Practitioners.
  • Potential bodywork students also gain an undergraduate qualification which provides a foundational qualification as a pathway to their degree.
  • Acceptance on to the Level 5 bridging programme for all of the above students or graduates, is subject to an initial assessment day, where prior massage hand skills and theory based knowledge will be assessed by one of our tutors.

A new career in Clinical Sport & Remedial Massage?

The School of Natural Therapies provides advanced sports and remedial massage training with our popular BTEC Level 5 Diploma in Clinical Sport and Remedial Massage. Enrolling on this BTEC course provides an opportunity for qualified practitioners to attain a Level 5 standard Clinical and Remedial Qualification, one of the highest in the UK. The full programme is made up of theoretical and practical skills, underpinned by set detailed case studies and assignments.

The whole programme is taught by two experienced professionals who operate their own well established clinics during weekdays and are committed to passing on their knowledge, skills and industry advice as course tutors.

Successful candidates will also become a member of the ISRM (Institute for Soft Tissue Therapists)

About the ISRM

Originally called the Institute of Sport and Remedial Massage, ISRM became the Institute for Soft Tissue Therapists in 2010 because of the developments we made to our training programme. The School of Natural Therapies is one of only a small number of validated schools in the UK.

On successful completion of the level 5 bridging programme, students will receive the following two certificates:

  • A BTEC Level 5 Diploma in ‘Soft Tissue Therapy’
  • A certificate from the of School of Natural Therapies (SNT) which states – ‘Level 5 Clinical and Remedial Sports Massage Diploma’

Attendance Type
In-person
Qualification
Level 5 Diploma
Duration
6 month course

Accredited by

Course Fees

Deposit
£299.40
Cost
£1497
Exam Fee
£387.00

Course fees include the following:

  • Guided learning in class with tutor support.
  • Direction and support for home study.
  • Songbird professional massage wax.
  • Comprehensive SNT course manual.
  • A copy of Chris Jarmey’s ‘Anatomy of the Human Body’
  • Course folder, note pad and pen.
  • Advice, guidance and discount with choosing and purchasing a quality massage couch and equipment at student rates.
  • A friendly and relaxed learning environment
  • Certification -A School of Natural Therapies (SNT) issued certificate which states – ‘Level 5 Clinical and Remedial Sports Massage Diploma’ and a  BTEC Level 5 Diploma in ‘Soft Tissue Therapy’

Spread The Cost

This course is eligible for payment in ten monthly installments, with a 20% deposit required upon enrolment, followed by ten additional payments. Payments can be made via Bank Transfer or Direct Credit in Branch. View full terms and conditions.

Entry Requirements

For potential candidates enroling from another school on to this programme, this course is open to learners who have already completed our ITEC Level 3 Diploma in Sports Massage; we also accept the equivalent qualification from another school or learning establishment, providing it meets the criteria as a UK regulated qualification, issued from an awarding body such as ITEC/VTCT/City & Guilds, etc.

We do ask that potential candidates are in possession of good written and spoken English language skills.

It is also useful but not essential to have some knowledge of experience of movement disciplines, such as exercise (eg PT) sport or dance.

All candidates are required to give and receive massage and practice all techniques taught during all practical sessions.

Course Structure

This programme comprises six study weekends, one weekend per month, plus an exam day when a final practical assessment will be carried out by a visiting examiner from the ISRM.

The subject areas are summarised below and we do factor in plenty of time to revisit and practice all elements and techniques learned, in order for students to be able to consolidate these into a cohesive treatment programme, as they develop their skills during the course.

 

  • Understanding the principles and application of cross fibre frictions
  • Revisit Postural Assessment
  • Learn how to undertake specialised function and mobility tests
  • Common injuries
  • Professional methods of note-taking and case histories
  • Remedial Exercise Advice
  • Trunk/Core Stability
  • Principle and application of technique
  • Active and Passive techniques
  • Weight-bearing
  • Clinical usage
  • Contra-indications
  • Principle and application of technique
  • Post Isometric Relaxation (PIR) methods
  • Reciprocal Inhibition (RI) methods
  • Contra-indications
  • Business Practice
  • Working outside and at major sporting events
  • Understanding of the genesis of trigger points
  • Pain and referred pain
  • The impact on muscle function
  • Deactivation methods
  • Myo-fascial release techniques
  • Understanding application and impact
  • Working with muscles in spasm
  • Releasing chronically congested fascial tissue

Assessment

  • Final practical assessment on the scheduled exam day.
  • Three other practical assessments are also carried out during the course
  • Three theory/research written assignment papers need to be submitted prior to certification.
  • Three case study reports also need to be submitted prior to certification.
  • Three internal muscle tests are also carried out during the course

Full details of all requirements and assessments are given on the first day of the course.

Course Dates

May 2026 Intake

Date & Time Location
Saturday 23 May 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Sunday 24 May 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Saturday 27 June 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Sunday 28 June 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Saturday 25 July 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Sunday 26 July 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Saturday 22 August 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Sunday 23 August 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Saturday 26 September 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Sunday 27 September 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Saturday 24 October 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Sunday 25 October 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Exam Day: Friday 27 November 2026
09:30 AM – 15:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Lesson 1

Saturday 23 May 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 2

Sunday 24 May 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 3

Saturday 27 June 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 4

Sunday 28 June 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 5

Saturday 25 July 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 6

Sunday 26 July 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 7

Saturday 22 August 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 8

Sunday 23 August 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 9

Saturday 26 September 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 10

Sunday 27 September 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 11

Saturday 24 October 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 12

Sunday 25 October 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Exam Day

Friday 27 November 2026
09:30 AM – 15:00 PM

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


September 2026 Intake

Date & Time Location
Saturday 05 September 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Sunday 06 September 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Saturday 03 October 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Sunday 04 October 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Saturday 31 October 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Sunday 01 November 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Saturday 05 December 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Sunday 06 December 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Saturday 09 January 2027
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Sunday 10 January 2027
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Saturday 06 February 2027
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Sunday 07 February 2027
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Exam Day: Friday 12 March 2027
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Lesson 1

Saturday 05 September 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 2

Sunday 06 September 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 3

Saturday 03 October 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 4

Sunday 04 October 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 5

Saturday 31 October 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 6

Sunday 01 November 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 7

Saturday 05 December 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 8

Sunday 06 December 2026
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 9

Saturday 09 January 2027
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 10

Sunday 10 January 2027
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 11

Saturday 06 February 2027
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 12

Sunday 07 February 2027
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Exam Day

Friday 12 March 2027
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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


January 2027 Intake

Date & Time Location
Saturday 30 January 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Sunday 31 January 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Saturday 20 February 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Sunday 21 February 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Saturday 13 March 2027
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Sunday 14 March 2027
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Saturday 24 April 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Sunday 25 April 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Saturday 29 May 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Sunday 30 May 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Saturday 26 June 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Sunday 27 June 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Exam Day: Friday 16 July 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM
Unit 54, Battersea Business Centre, 99–109 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London SW11 5QL
Lesson 1

Saturday 30 January 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM

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

Lesson 2

Sunday 31 January 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM

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

Lesson 3

Saturday 20 February 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM

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

Lesson 4

Sunday 21 February 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM

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

Lesson 5

Saturday 13 March 2027
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 6

Sunday 14 March 2027
09:30 AM – 17:00 PM

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

Lesson 7

Saturday 24 April 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM

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

Lesson 8

Sunday 25 April 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM

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

Lesson 9

Saturday 29 May 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM

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

Lesson 10

Sunday 30 May 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM

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

Lesson 11

Saturday 26 June 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM

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

Lesson 12

Sunday 27 June 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM

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

Exam Day

Friday 16 July 2027
09:30 AM – 17:30 PM

Location: Unit 54, 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

A Level 5 Diploma in Clinical Sport, Remedial Massage & Soft Tissue Therapy is a highly sought after qualification for sports clubs and teams. Gyms and health clubs also highly value this level of training for their members.

A number of our graduates have also gained employment working alongside other clinicians, such as physiotherapists, osteopaths, etc.

Of course taking on private clients at home in a spare room, or even on a mobile therapy basis is a route that many of our graduates also take.

Tutors

Joseph O'Dwyer, Director of Sport & Remedial Studies

Joseph O'Dwyer

Director of Sport & Remedial Studies

Trevor Gorard, Sport & Remedial Studies Tutor

Trevor Gorard

Sport & Remedial Studies Tutor

Latest Reviews

Google Icon 4.8
★★★★★
(180 Reviews)

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

Ágnes Szerdahelyi
I did the level 5 sports massage course at the School of Natural Therapies. Choosing this school  was the best decision. Joseph and Trevor are the most inspiring teachers. Their knowledge is incredible, they're full of inspiring stories and case studies. They have a patience of an angel, explaining everything thoroughly, making sure the slow learners are up to speed as well. They are always there if you have any questions. The learning environment is very relaxed, there is no stupid question. At the end of the course I was prepared to start a new job with confidence. I am very grateful to be a student at this school and very happy that finally I found some teachers I can look up to.
Karima Benaicha
As a therapist, I had the privilege of being taught by two incredible instructors, Trevor and Josef, who have inspired me and taken my skill set to an unimaginable level. I can confidently say that if you are looking to excel in the field of sports massage, you need not look any further. Trevor is a standout instructor for his expertise, insight, patience, and flexibility. His teaching style is engaging and always keeps the class motivated. He is always willing to go the extra mile to ensure that his students understand the material and feel confident in their abilities. His dedication to his students is evident through his willingness to adjust his teaching methods to fit the learning style of each individual. Joseph is equally exceptional, sharing with us his vast experience and providing his expertise and understanding of the field. He backs his students and provides the necessary support to ensure their success. His knowledge of the body and how it works is unparalleled, and he is always willing to answer any questions his students may have. Together, Trevor and Joseph make a formidable team that will leave you feeling confident and empowered in your abilities as a sports massage therapist. Through their guidance and instruction, I have developed a deep love for the profession and a passion for helping people. Their enthusiasm for the field is contagious, and they have ingrained in me a drive to constantly improve and strive for excellence. If you are feeling stuck and repeating the same treatments with no improvements, then this place is for you. Trevor and Josef will provide you with the tools and knowledge necessary to excel in your practice and help your clients achieve their goals. I highly recommend them as instructors to anyone seeking to advance their skills in sports massage.
Jeremy Hill
I undertook my level 5 BTEC in Soft Tissue Therapy with the School of Natural Therapies and gave also undertaken CPD courses with them. I have found all the tutors very knowledgeable and all the practical sessions have been hugely instructive but at the same time fun. I believe the biggest recommendation l can give the school is since taking my level 5 my treatment column at my clinic is now full every day and importantly the course armed me with the skills and understanding of how to deliver this level of therapy without causing fatigue or injury to myself.
Pe' Peladar
Here at School of Natural Therapies, They care about you and your Education, Excellent Tutors. I really enjoy my Level 5 in Clinical Sports and Remedial Soft Tissue Therapy, it's intense but fun and very interesting. Strongly recommended!!
Judith Godby
Update February 2024: I now started BTEC Level 5 soft tissue therapy and remedial sports massage with SNT and could not be happier. The tutors are absolutely fantastic (Joseph, Trev, Iris, Melanie) and provide not just profound and in-depth knowledge but are also super supportive. Highly recommended! I did the advanced and deep tissue massage course with Joseph and can only recommend it and him. What a great and super knowledgeable teacher he is! His wealth of expertise and experience elevates your massage skills to a different level. The course is perfectly structured, the location is great and the atmosphere is very professional. Besides all of this, I had lots of fun. Thank you Joseph and see you soon for my next course!

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.

Next Steps

Ready to secure your space?

Need more information?

BTEC Level 5 Bridging Programme in Clinical Sports & Remedial Massage
  Accredited Qualification
  Advanced Techniques
  ISRM Membership Eligibility

Our Venue

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