The VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Body Massage (QCF) is a step up from the VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Body Massage Techniques (QCF). Either qualification is an ideal starting point for a complementray therapist, as many of the units are repeated in the reflexology and aromatherapy qualifications (you would only need to do them once).
Course Content: The VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Body Massage Techniques (QCF) qualification is made up of the following units:
K/501/9256 - Health, Safety and Hygiene for Complementary Therapies
1. Be able to understand the health and safety procedures and policies required for complementary therapy
1.1 Evaluate the relevant health and safety legislation relating to complementary therapies
1.2 Review methods of complying with health and safety legislation
1.3 Explain the health, safety and security procedures and policies
1.4 Examine the employers' and employees' health and safety responsibilities
2. Be able to apply hygiene procedures for complementary therapy treatments
2.1 Evaluate and use hygiene procedures required for a range of treatments
2.2 Explain the professional standards of personal presentation required
3. Be able to maintain a healthy and safe environment
3.1 Follow procedures and policies to contribute to a healthy and safe working environment
3.2 Assess any potential risks within own area of responsibility and report any hazards that need to be referred
3.3 Demonstrate safe handling and use of products, materials, tools and equipment
3.4 Demonstrate correct maintenance and storage of products, materials, tools and equipment
Y/501/9253 - Principles and Practice of Complementary Therapies
1. Be able to understand the key historical factors and theoretical background for complementary therapies
1.1 Examine the history and origins of complementary therapies
1.2 Analyse definitions and theories of commonly available complementary therapies
1.3 Evaluate the theory of techniques used in commonly available complementary therapies
2. Know the main influences on working within the complementary therapy industry
2.1 Describe legislative requirements and working practice within complementary therapies
2.2 Summarise the legal obligations of working with clients and the general public
2.3 Explain the codes of practice and ethics relating to complementary therapies
2.4 Analyse the roles of professional associations and organisations relating to complementary therapies
2.5 Evaluate the process of registration and regulation of complementary therapies
3. Know the key aspects of good clinical practice
3.1 Evaluate appropriate referral procedures and protocols to use with clients and others involved in integrated healthcare
3.2 Identify effective communication skills when dealing with clients and colleagues in maintaining good practice
3.3 Collate information from clients that is necessary for assessment and treatment planning
3.4 Demonstrate how to accurately record information, store records and ensure confidentialit
L/501/9105 - Provide Body Massage for Complementary Therapies
1. Be able to prepare for a body massage treatment
1.1 Evaluate desirable characteristics of an appropriate treatment environment and prepare self, client and work area in accordance with current legislation and working practice requirements
1.2 Consult with clients to clarify their requirements, summarise objectives and describe the contra-actions that may result from treatment and how to respond appropriately to contra actions, identify influencing factors and provide clear recommendations to the client.
1.3 Evaluate known contraindications, local contraindications, or cautions that may restrict or prevent treatment, identify contraindications and take appropriate action. Refer the client to another healthcare practitioner if necessary or decide that the body massage treatment is not appropriate
2. Be able to provide body massage treatment
2.1 Perform and adapt the body massage treatment, where necessary, within a commercially acceptable time. Demonstrate how body massage techniques can be adapted to suit the physical characteristics of a client. Implement working methods that meet with professional and legal requirements. Perform the treatment to the satisfaction of the client.
2.2 Summarise the history, philosophy and role of Swedish massage and other massage traditions; evaluate the uses of the five classical massage movements and the physiological and psychological effects of massage on the body systems. Explain the uses, application and origin of different massage media. Evaluate skin types, characteristics and general body types. Outline common postural faults and location of underlying body structures.
2.3 Select, use and store materials and equipment effectively, correctly and safely
2.4 Communicate and behave in a professional manner throughout treatment. Position self and client throughout the treatment to ensure privacy, comfort and well being
2.5 Critically compare the methods of evaluating the effectiveness of a body massage treatment and evaluate the results of the treatment. Evaluate the philosophy of reflective practice and its relevance to the massage therapist
2.6 Record treatment and store information securely in line with current legislation
2.7 State and provide after and home care advice.
T/501/9101 - Knowledge of Anatomy, Physiology & Pathology for Complementary Therapies
01.Be able to identify the organisation of the body
01.1 Describe, in relationship to the organisation of the body:
- Type
- Location
- Structure
- Function
- Growth
- Repair
- pathologies
02. Be able to identify the skin, hair and nails and common pathologies
02.1 Describe, in relationship to the skin, hair and nails:
- Type
- Location
- Structure
- Function
- Growth
- Repair
- pathologies
03. Be able to identify the skeletal system and common pathologies
03.1 Describe, in relationship to the skeletal system:
- Type
- Location
- Structure
- Function
- Growth
- Repair
- pathologies
04. Be able to identify the muscular system and common pathologies
04.1 Describe, in relationship to the muscular system:
- Type
- Location
- Structure
- Function
- Growth
- Repair
- pathologies
05. Be able to identify the nervous system and common pathologies
05.1 Describe, in relationship to the nervous system:
- Type
- Location
- Structure
- Function
- Growth
- Repair
- pathologies
06. Be able to identify the endocrine system and common pathologies
06.1 Describe, in relationship to the endocrine system:
- Type
- Location
- Structure
- Function
- Growth
- Repair
- pathologies
07. Be able to identify the respiratory system and common pathologies
07.1 Describe, in relationship to the respiratory system:
- Type
- Location
- Structure
- Function
- Growth
- Repair
- pathologies
08. Be able to identify the cardiovascular system and common pathologies
08.1 Describe, in relationship to the cardiovascular system:
- Type
- Location
- Structure
- Function
- Growth
- Repair
- pathologies
09. Be able to identify the lymphatic system and common pathologies
09.1 Describe, in relationship to the lymphatic system:
- Type
- Location
- Structure
- Function
- Growth
- Repair
- pathologies
10. Be able to identify the digestive system and common pathologies
10.1. Describe, in relationship to the digestive system:
- Type
- Location
- Structure
- Function
- Growth
- Repair
- pathologies
11. Be able to identify the urinary system and common pathologies
11.1 Describe, in relationship to the urinary system:
- Type
- Location
- Structure
- Function
- Growth
- Repair
- pathologies
12. Be able to identify the reproductive system and common pathologies
12.1. Describe, in the relation to the reproductive system:
- Type
- Location
- Structure
- Function
- Growth
- Repair
- pathologies
Course Content: The VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Body Massage (QCF) qualification is made up of all the above units plus the following units:
D/501/9108 - Reflective Practice for Body Massage
1. Be able to apply and understand reflective practice
1.1 Describe the basic elements of reflective practice and reflect on own attitudes, beliefs, interests, priorities and values in relation to personal growth as a massage therapist.
1.2 Describe how own self-awareness impacts on personal and professional life and how to record evidence of own knowledge and practical experience.
1.3 Evaluate own knowledge and practice in relation to professional codes of conduct and current working practices and identify strengths and remove limitations in order to best serve self and client
1.4 Identify lifelong learning opportunities and describe how to plan for self development
D/501/9111 - Knowledge of Less Common Pathology for Complementary Therapies
1. Be able to identify the signs and symptoms of less common pathologies
1.1 Describe, in relationship to the body the signs and symptoms of less common pathologies of:
- the skin
- skeletal system
- muscular system
- nervous system
- respiratory system
- cardiovascular system
- lymphatic system
- digestive system
- urinary system
- reproductive system
H/501/9255 - Business Practice for Complementary Therapies
1. Understand the key business criteria required for complementary therapy
1.1 Explain the legal requirements of running a business
1.2 Explain how marketing and public relations are used in successful businesses
1.3 Describe the employment opportunities within complementary therapies industries
1.4 Evaluate communication techniques and describe how to communicate effectively with clients and colleagues
1.5 Explain how to promote complementary therapies practices and produce promotional material
2. Be able to research a business concept
2.1 Compare and contrast different business types
2.2 Design and research a potential business opportunity using a range of sources
2.3 Research potential premises, staff, products and resource requirements
3. Be able to plan, prepare and maintain a business plan
3.1 Plan and prepare an appropriate business plan for a potential business
3.2 Review premises, staff and resource requirements to maintain a business plan including professional services that may be required
3.3 Calculate costs of treatments, products and services offered
3.4 Estimate start up and running costs
Course Entry Requirements &
Pre-Requisites
A good level of English language is required
Study Options
VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Body Massage Techniques (QCF): this course is availale as a part time (weekends) course. Training takes place over 2 weekends with a follow up asessment date
VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Body Massage (QCF): This course is available as part time (1 day per week for 8 weeks), or full time (2 days per week for 8 weeks)
Assessment
Portfolio of Evidence
Practical Demonstration / Assignment
Case Study Completion*—a minimum of 5 people treated
4 times each. Each case study must be written up and recorded
(further explanation will be given during the course).
*case studies are arranged by, and completed at, The Therapy Centre wherever possible
The Examination Body - V.T.C.T.
The Vocational Training Charitable Trust (VTCT) is an awarding
body offering vocational qualifications in Complementary Therapy
and Bodywork. VTCT is recognized and regulated by the Qualifications
and Curriculum Authority (QCA), and the Department of Education
and Employment. VTCT is an independent examining body that
offers impartiality and objectivity in its examinations. VTCT
is recognised by insurance companies for professional liability
insurance. Successful completion of this diploma course will
provide you with the title of "Massage Therapist", and the
knowledge and techniques needed to give a treatment. Practitioner
insurance is also available upon successful completion of
the course.
VTCT qualifications are recognised both nationally and internationally.
Further Study
This course combined with Part 1 of the VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Anatomy & Physiology
will enable a candidate to practise professionally as a "Massage
Therapist".
Candidates can then further their study with any other form
of massage or bodywork.
