Choosing a Massage Course: Whether you’re thinking of switching careers, enhancing your existing skills, or simply exploring a passion, choosing the right massage course is a vital first step. With so many options out there, it can feel a little overwhelming. But don’t worry – we’ve put together a handy guide to help you choose a course that fits your goals, lifestyle and learning style.
1. Accreditation & Recognition when choosing a massage course
The starting point for a career in massage, is gaining a recognised Level 3 qualification according to Ofqual.
Ofqual is the regulator of qualifications, examinations and assessments in England and vocational qualifications in Northern Ireland. The RQF (Regulated Qualifications Framework) is a new way of recognising skills and qualifications. It does this by awarding credit for units (small steps of learning) and enables learners to gain qualifications at their own pace along flexible routes.
The RQF has four main aims. These are to: 1. ensure a wider range of achievements can be recognised within a more inclusive qualifications framework 2. establish a qualifications system that is more responsive to individual and employer needs 3. establish a simpler qualifications framework that is easier for all users to understand 4. reduce the burden of bureaucracy in the accreditation and assessment of qualifications.
You can find out more about Ofqual by visiting our website pages.
Accreditation ensures that the course meets professional standards and gives you credibility when working with clients or applying for insurance. Our Massage Course and Sports Massage are Level 3 Professional trainings.
2. Experienced and Supportive Tutors
Learning massage is as much about people as it is about technique. Look for courses where the tutors are not only qualified and experienced but also supportive, approachable and enthusiastic about helping students grow. It’s worth reading reviews or asking past students about their experiences and you can find plenty of reviews from past students on our website.
The College Principal, Michael Gibbons, has over 30 years of continuing professional practice in bodywork and is highly regarded in the industry. He shares his expertise in teaching not only basic massage techniques but extra skills and training that will expand your skill-set way beyond a regular “Level 3” body massage course. This will give you extra self-confidence and a high-quality massage repertoire to take with you into your professional massage practice. All of our tutors are highly skilled, confident and practising massage therapists themselves and offer an exceptional level of tuition.
3. Hands-On Learning
Massage is a practical skill – you learn best by doing. Make sure the course offers plenty of hands-on practice, ideally with a good student-to-tutor ratio, so you get individual guidance. Look for opportunities to practice on real clients too, not just fellow students. Here at the College, all our courses offer hands on practice, in small groups, with expert guidance and the case studies allow students the opportunity to practice on real clients, to get an understanding of working in a massage setting.
4. Massage Course Content
Think about what kind of massage you want to offer – is it holistic, deep tissue, sports, or perhaps pregnancy massage? A good course will cover:
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Anatomy & physiology (a must-have foundation)
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Massage techniques and routines
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Client consultation and aftercare
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Health & safety
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Business or marketing basics (bonus points!)
Be sure the content aligns with your goals and interests.
5. Flexible Learning Options when choosing a massage course
If you’re juggling work, family or other commitments, flexibility is key. Many courses now offer blended learning – combining in-person workshops with online theory modules. Check the course content and see whether it fits your availability and learning style. All our course dates are listed on our website alongside the syllabus and we encourage prospective students to read this information in advance of enrolling onto our courses and are here to answer any questions you may have.
6. Post-Course Support
The learning doesn’t stop once the course ends. When choosing a massage course, you want one that offers follow-up support, mentoring, or access to a graduate community can make all the difference as you start building your practice. We are here to support you as a bodyworker and are committed to your ongoing professional development. We offer post-graduate support and further training to keep your massage techniques up-to-date and highly effective.
7. Location & Atmosphere
It might sound simple, but choosing a massage course in a location that feels comfortable and welcoming can really enhance your learning. Whether you prefer the buzz of a city or the calm of the countryside, find a setting that inspires you. We are pleased to offer our courses in the city of Bath and in Brighton and also in the tranquil Sussex countryside, so there is a choice for everyone.
8. Value for Money when choosing a massage course
Cheapest doesn’t always mean best – and most expensive doesn’t always mean top quality. Consider what’s included: materials, assessments, access to online content, or ongoing support. Think of it as an investment in your future. Our courses are all-encompassing and included in the cost of the massage course is the following:
- All hands-on massage tuition at the College of Classical Massage
- All guided online learning for the VTCT/ITEC Diploma tuition in Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology
- Guided online learning support for the Business practice for complementary therapies module.*
- Guided online learning support for the Principles and practice of complementary therapies module.*
- The College of Classical Massage high-quality training DVD/download.
- The College of Classical Massage polo shirt.
Choosing a Massage Course: Final Thoughts
A good massage course can be life-changing, giving you the skills, confidence and community to thrive as a therapist. Take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask questions before enrolling. It’s about choosing a massage course that truly resonates with you – one that nurtures your passion, supports your development, and helps you grow both personally and professionally.
And if you’re local to Bath, Sussex or Brighton – pop in for a chat! We love helping people start their journey into the world of massage! Whether you’re brand new to massage or looking to add new treatments to your current repertoire, we’re always happy to guide you in the right direction. A warm welcome awaits! Just make sure to contact us in advance to arrange your visit on 01273 758424 or 07949 674524 or email [email protected].
For details on all our upcoming courses please visit the College of Classical Massage website.
Do check out our YouTube channel. We have plenty of massage videos to support your practice and inspire you with new techniques and ideas!
Disclaimer – this information is for educational purposes only. If you are considering receiving massage, please consult with your GP first if you have any concerns about your suitability for receiving massage.