ITEC Diploma in Massage - QCF Level 3, QAN 600/5503/0

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 complementary 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 four independent units, with the option of a fifth unit in Healthy Eating & Well-being as well, if this unit is of interest to the student.

The compulsory units are:

ITEC Unit 380 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.
Learning outcomes for this unit 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 and its psychological effects and benefits to the human mind
• 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
• Identify lifelong learning opportunities to plan for self-development

Students will be expected to undertake case studies as part of the course and provide evidence of these treatments on case study forms – the majority of this work is expected to be completed by the student at home; however, some of this work will be carried out during the class time as well.
This unit is externally examined by a visiting ITEC examiner and will be 45 minutes long. Exam days are confirmed once the course is under way.

ITEC Unit 383, Knowledge of Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology for Complementary Therapies
(Multiple choice theory test 50 questions on exam day – 55 minute paper, taken alongside the practical exam for unit 380)
Human Anatomy and Physiology and Pathology for Complementary Therapies, covering all major systems and their functions, incorporating:

• 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 384 - Principles and Practice of Complementary Therapies
(Assignment based learning which allows the student to research four other complementary therapies in the form of four assignments – these will be submitted andmarked internally by the school)

ITEC Unit 385 - Business Practice for Complementary Therapies
(Assignment based learning – students will write their own business plan in relation to a holistic business – internally marked and assessed by the school)