ITEC Level 3 Diploma in Holistic Massage 

This qualification will provide you with the opportunities to develop a range of massage skills and techniques, together with the personal qualities that are essential when working as massage therapist. 

You will gain a detailed and thorough understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the body, plus holistic massage for the purposes of relaxation and stress release. 

Knowledge covered within the Holistic Massage Diploma includes:

• Anatomical terms
• Professional boundaries
• Case studies
• Classical movements
• Client care and towel technique
• Conditions
• History of massage
• Physiological and psychological benefits
• Sequences and techniques
• The role of stress 

The Holistic Massage Diploma comprises:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Professional Conduct and Business Awareness 

Anatomy and Physiology

The knowledge gained in this unit will provide you with the ‘foundation’ you will need to progress. You will develop an in-depth knowledge of the human body, plus a comprehensive knowledge of diseases and disorders of the human body, to be aware of when and when not to treat a client. 

Knowledge covered includes:

• Skeletal system
• Muscular system
• The skin
• The cell
• Circulatory and lymphatic systems
• Neurological system
• Endocrine system
• Respiratory system
• Digestive system
• Urinary system
• Reproductive system 

Professional Conduct and Business Awareness

This element of the course will prepare you for working within the industry and covers legislation relating to good practice, building customer relations and developing a business. 

You will study the basic principles of professionalism within the service industry, focussing on the Codes of Practise and Ethics for Therapists. The legal aspects for business will be covered in conjunction with all the health, safety and security requirements for a salon environment. 

You will also cover all information required in setting up and maintaining a clinic/private practice. 

Entry Requirements

When you come for assessment we will work with you to identify an appropriate start date, duration and level of study, to help you achieve your personal and employment goals. 

Work Placements

Work placement opportunities and supported placements in professional working environments are organised to enable you to further develop your experience. These can last between three and six months. 

During your time at RNC, you will experience over 200 hours of ‘hands on’ training within the public clinics held twice weekly in the College’s Sports and Complementary Therapies centre, thePoint4.  You will also experience working with a wide range of external clients and organisations, i.e. local sports groups and organisations, Herefordshire Carers Society, the Parkinson’s Society, the Red Cross and Hereford United Football Club. 

What next?

There are a range of additional massage and therapy qualifications that you could progress on to at RNC:

• ITEC Level 3 in Indian Head Massage
• ITEC Level 3 in On Site Chair Massage
• ITEC Level 3 in Sports Massage
• ITEC Level 3 in Reflexology
• ITEC Level 3 in Aromatherapy 

Training is designed to ensure you are prepared to work as a professional massage therapist. Many students wish to become self-employed and establish their own clinic or, alternatively, you may wish to seek employment in:

• Health clubs, spas and hotels
• Sports clubs
• Care settings
• Voluntary sector
• Self employment
• Professional football and sports clubs 

You may also consider this qualification a 'stepping stone' and progress onto Higher/Further Education for further study in a related area.