Then this is for the massage course for you – the VTCT/ITEC Level 3 Professional Diploma in Massage, also known as Body Massage, Holistic Massage, or Swedish Massage. This massage training course is an inspiring, dynamic, professional, diploma massage training leading to a gratifying and enjoyable career in massage.
Why do a Massage Course?
There are many reasons why people decide to train in massage. Many choose to train to embark on a whole new and exciting career as a Massage Practitioner and Bodyworker. Some train for their professional development, others to provide a wonderful service to family and friends. Whatever your reason for training, the VTCT/ITEC Diploma is the essential qualifying course designed to take the student from complete novice to professional practitioner. On completion of this all-encompassing course, you will gain the nationally recognised VTCT/ITEC Level 3 Diploma in Massage, and the VTCT/ITEC Level 3 Diploma in Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology. You will qualify for professional insurance so you can go straight to work!
Once your Massage Course is completed, where can you work?
The Level 3 Massage Diploma Training qualifies you to work independently and start your own practice, empowering you to select your own hours and be in control of your work/life balance. Alternatively, you can be employed by a salon, clinic, health club, or spa. You may also find work in the NHS, hospice, or other healthcare settings.
Why train with the College of Classical Massage?
The college principal, Michael Gibbons, is the main tutor for this course. 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.
The College of Classical Massage was established in 1999 and has a 100% pass rate in all practical aspects of the training.
All the college’s teachers and teaching assistants have been hand-picked for their experience, passion, and professionalism. They all have successful massage practices.
You receive high-quality classroom-based hands-on and online tuition to ensure you have the highest skill-set level and self-confidence to start your massage career.
Career longevity is at the heart of our training. As practitioners, we understand the importance of protecting yourself: the practitioner – you will learn how to adjust your stance and posture to avoid stress to your body. We will teach you how to work using your forearms and specific deep tissue techniques to save your fingers and thumbs!
More reasons to train with us:
You will cover all the basic techniques covered on a “usual Level 3 course” PLUS additional content on deep tissue and therapeutic massage.
We teach you to recognise contraindications and give you the confidence to adapt your routines and practice according to individual client needs.
We are here to support you as a bodyworker and are committed to your ongoing professional development. In addition to the very best qualifying course, we also offer post-graduate support and further training to keep your massage techniques up-to-date and highly effective.
The College of Classical Massage is, in here to support you throughout your career right from the start!
Quite simply, we are a leading provider of Professional Diploma level Massage Training in the UK. Come and join us to learn the highest level of professional massage training!
Massage Course Tutor and College Principal, Michael Gibbons
This course is taught predominantly by Michael Gibbons, with highly experienced assistants for practical sessions, where necessary.
Michael Gibbons is an exceptional and highly experienced Bodywork Practitioner and Teacher. He has gained extensive knowledge over his 30 years in the Bodywork Industry. Originally training in Body Massage and Sports Massage, he has further developed his skills and experience with his 4-year training at the Mc Timoney College in Oxford, gaining a Diploma in 1999. He has also trained in Biodynamic Cranio-Sacral therapy, Thai Yoga Massage, Remedial, and Deep Tissue Massage, and Aromatherapy.
Michael is passionate about his clinic work and his teaching. It gives him great pleasure to be able to impart his knowledge to others and to play an important part in the development of their skills.
What is included in the massage course fee?
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.
Body Massage is a fantastic skill to learn and offers an immensely satisfying and enjoyable career. It is also known as Holistic or Swedish Massage. We teach this massage course with a holistic approach.
Yes, please! I would like to train as a massage therapist – what do I do next?
Send us your booking form and your registration fee – we will then send your receipt and full course information.
You can also contact us by phone at 07949 674524 or email at classicalmassage@gmail.com to discuss your next stage and, if you wish, arrange a meet-up with the College Principal to see the venue and have your questions answered.
Body Massage Course
During this Massage Course, the classes are taught in a relaxed environment using detailed practical demonstrations. Students work closely with the tutor learning not only the techniques but also how to protect themselves from the strain and stress while carrying out body therapy. You will learn the classic techniques of massage – effleurage; petrissage and the percussions including hacking, cupping, beating, pounding, and tapotement. You will also learn frictions and vibrations and deeper massage techniques using forearms and elbows. An important part of training with the college is to trust and develop your intuition and blend massage techniques to suit each individual. Click here for the full VTCT/ITEC syllabus and sample papers.
This training is through a combination of practical, hands-on tuition and guided online learning.
You will be learning four units overall:
iUCT34 – Business practice for complementary therapies
iUCT21 – Principles and practice of complementary therapies
iUCT24 – Provide body massage for complementary therapies
iUCT38 – Knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology for complementary therapies
Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology
Therapists need to understand how the body functions and heals itself. This is a fascinating subject to study.
You will learn about the cell, the skin, skeletal, muscular, vascular, lymphatic, nervous, endocrine, reproductive, digestive, respiratory and urinary systems.
You will learn this through supported online self-study. We will provide you with guided PowerPoints, marked assessments and mock exam papers to ensure you are fully informed in advance of the exam.
The major benefit of online study is that you can do this at a time and a pace that suits you. We are available online and over the phone to support you if needed.
You will also learn about professional conduct, ethics, client management, setting up a business and contraindications. Please follow this link to the VTCT/ITEC syllabus.
The exam will be classroom-based. It is a 55-minute multiple-choice paper of 50 questions.
“I have recently finished the ITEC massage course with the college of classical massage in Bath. After spending lots of time researching to find the right course, I was so pleased after the first weekend of training to know that I’d made the right decision. i can’t believe how much my confidence has grown throughout the course and the variety of techniques and skills that we’ve learned. Michael’s wealth of knowledge and years of experience really shines through and I felt well supported and guided throughout the course. Michael creates a professional yet relaxed and calm space for learning that is inclusive & nurturing for various learning styles. After finishing I now feel ready, confident and well equipped to offer unique, bespoke and effective massage treatments due to the variety of skills we learned.” Lucy Reetoraz, Bath
“This is such a fantastic course. The learning of the anatomy & physiology is perfectly balanced with the hands-on, practical massage tuition. Michael is extremely knowledgeable and explains everything so clearly, always ensuring that when working practically you are taking care of your own body too, with correct stance and posture. You will find that your fellow students soon become friends and are a constant source of support. I worked full time during the whole of this diploma course, yet even when I was at college for the whole of Saturday and Sunday before returning to work on Monday, I felt like I’d been having such a good time I’d had a proper weekend. It helps that for some of that time, you’re getting a great massage! By the time you finish this course, you will be able to work confidently as a massage therapist.” Beth Dabbs
“Experienced, knowledgable, grounded, compassionate, and empowering; Michael Gibbons’s teaching is exactly what I had been looking for in a massage diploma. Calm and confident practical massage teaching demonstrations alongside a thorough and indepth knowledge of anatomy, physiology and all types of bodywork, delivered with a kind, cheerful and confident style makes this course a success. the organisation of the course structure was thorough, opportunity to learn beyond the scope of ITEC requirements was truly inspiring, being able to access support both during and following the course was both reassuring and truly facilitating to individual development. I am so glad that I chose to learn at the College of Classical Massage. ” Gaynor Shephard R.M.
‘I enrolled in the College of Classical Massage’s ITEC Diploma in Massage course after receiving the best massage of my life from a therapist who studied there. The course did not disappoint, from the location to convenient class times, to Michael’s excellent knowledge and obvious passion for massage. After completing the course I felt confident and motivated to make the career change and become a part-time massage therapist.
I cannot recommend this course highly enough for anyone looking for a fun, informative and friendly Diploma in massage therapy… not to mention all the free massages you get during the course!’ Anna, Brighton.
“The College of Classical Massage is like a home from home, a place full of warmth and togetherness. A wonderful antidote for those looking for something a little more than a stale college classroom for their learning environment. I’m going to miss my regular weekly full body massage when the course finishes in a few weeks time. Through the miracle of mitosis one tutor becomes two when the lovely Anna arrives in the afternoon. Anna did the course with Michael many moons ago so knows what you’re going through. Both Michael and Anna are never far away if you need some advice during the massage and they are always there to offer a good dose of encouragement when it feels most needed. So if you’re thinking of taking this course. All the best to you. I can’t think of a better place to learn massage in the Sussex area. ” Simon Thorn
“The training with the College of Classical Massage is excellent and I found it very professional and thorough within a relaxed and calming environment. My friends were amazed at how much I learnt and the different techniques that I was using in such a short space of time. The training was invaluable and the tutors inspiring and it has definitely set the foundation for my career in massage, thank you.” Jade Maloney
“I had been wanting to attend a Massage course for years and it turned out i waited for the right one! Michael and Elaine have together whole heartedly and passionately dedicated them selves to providing an amazing learning experience. Well structured, thorough with a perfect balance of practical and theory based classes. Michael is highly knowledgeable, skilled and provides a safe, fun and energised learning environment. Having qualified with merit i left the course feeling very prepared to take my newly acquired skill out into the community. Highly recommended!” Nathan Synge
“Studying for the ITEC Diploma in Massage at the College of Classical Massage in Brighton was a thoroughly enjoyable and positive experience. Michael has created a relaxed, fun and nurturing learning environment and provides all the encouragement and support needed on what is an intensive but rewarding course. Michael and the other college tutors are all extremely knowledgeable and taught far more than was needed to prepare for the exam, giving me confidence in my practice from day one. I would highly recommend the College of Classical Massage!” Joanna Lines
“The ITEC Diploma in Massage was something that I really wanted to do as I’ve always been interested in massage and the holistic side of things. For such an intensive course, we covered topics on the anatomy and physiology and the practical emphasis of giving a treatment to a client. There is a lot to learn when studying, it tests your ability to absorb information quickly and finding the time to be a therapist in training, with other commitments on the go. The knowledge I’ve gained and the confidence as a therapist is immense. It is a transferable skill that I can use abroad or within the UK. Michael’s enthusiasm for body massage really came across. It is a stepping stone to further my career and to be amongst others who share a similar passion. Thank you Michael.” Isobel Street
“Since joining the ITEC Diploma in Massage class at the beginning of this year, I have been astounded how much I have learned about the human body and systems and energy fields in relation to massage therapy, and all thanks to Michael and Anna (his assistant) who are both experts in their field. Every single lesson I found to be both enjoyable and instructive. I recommend Michael and Anna highly as massage therapy tutors.” Kim Duke
“I qualified as a Holistic Massage Therapist in 2012 following the intensive ITEC Diploma course run by Michael Gibbons. From day one the course was relaxed and informal but with a very professional approach to the learning required. The course is broken into both practical and theory with ample opportunity to be “hands-on” at the start of the course. Michael had the patience of a saint with us all, as we sometimes took a while to grasp what was required of us but he always maintained a great sense of humour! As a result of Michael and the College, I was able to achieve what I believed at the beginning would be the impossible, and am now the proud owner of my own massage business, The Therapy Room. I would thoroughly recommend this course to anyone.” Rachel Gosling
“Although very intensive, the ITEC level 3 course in holistic massage was well prepared and thorough, allowing me to start feeling quite confident after only a couple weekends of practice. Michael’s easy-going approach to teaching and his extensive experience, allowed us to learn more than the course requirements in a friendly, family-like atmosphere. As well as practicing a vast number of techniques, we learned the appropriate postures and methods to prevent injury to ourselves. Michael focused our learning on making the techniques our own to each create an individual and unique style of massage. Michael is also full of knowledge and advice about starting up a massage business, which has been invaluable to me as a complete business beginner.” Naomi Pauling
Massage Course Dates and Times
Weekends from October 2025
October 25th/26th
November 22nd/23rd
December 13th/14th
January 24th/25th
February 21st/22nd
Exam March: to be confirmed.
Times: 8.45am – 5pm
Massage Course Fees and Booking
Fees (including VTCT/ITEC exam):
Registration Fee (non-refundable):
£300
Course Fee (payable 6 weeks before course start date):
£1795
Total
£2095
Your exam fee of £150 is payable 6 weeks before the exam date.
If you would like to book a place on this course please complete or download a booking form.
Payment can be made by bank transfer, cash or PayPal.*
To pay by bank transfer, please contact us for bank details.
To pay by cash, please contact us to arrange a convenient time.
*Paypal: please note if paying by PayPal there is a 3.5% PayPal surcharge on course fees (not on the registration fee).
If you have any payment queries, please contact us.
Instalments—You can pay the course fees in 4 equal monthly instalments. Please contact us for further details at classicalmassage@gmail.com. Please note that there is an administrative surcharge of £50 for instalment payment plans.
ITEC Diploma in Massage
These fees include
massage therapy hands-on, classroom tuition;
guided online anatomy, physiology and pathology tuition;
a copy of our high-quality instructional massage DVD/download
online professional conduct and business awareness tuition
online principles and practice of complementary therapies
a complimentary college polo shirt
massage course materials and complimentary refreshments are also provided.
You will need to purchase the course textbook: “Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology for Therapists and Healthcare Professionals” by Ruth Hull et al, approximately £16. During the course, you will also need to purchase a massage couch. You will be advised on this during the teaching sessions. They vary in price starting from approximately £60 upwards to £500 and more. You will be shown a variety of couches to help your decision.
Before the exam, you need to have a 3-year First Aid certificate. This is approximately a one-day, 6-hour training. There are many providers offering this.
Massage Course Requirements
No previous experience is necessary to attend this course. It is recommended that candidates should have achieved a level of education equivalent to five GCSEs at grades A* – C prior to commencing the VTCT/ITEC Level 3 Diploma in Massage, however, exemptions may be made for adult returners with experience in the workplace.
Before the end of the massage course, you will need to complete a one-day first aid course, for which you will need to provide evidence. This is called an Emergency First Aid course and is valid for 3 years.
Please bring 2 large bath towels all other equipment is provided. You should bring soft shoes/slippers or can work in bare feet. You should be of reasonably good health and not suffering from any current medical conditions which would hinder your ability to give and receive a treatment. Please let us know if you have any medical conditions you feel we should be aware of.
During the course, you will need to do homework for the Anatomy, physiology and pathology. You will also need to undertake 36 case studies at home. You will need a massage couch for this – we will give advice on purchasing.
Venue
New Oriel Hall, Brookleaze Buildings, Larkhall, Bath BA1 6RA
Many people can benefit from some form of massage. Years ago it was only available for the wealthy and seen as a luxury treatment only but these days it is quite readily available, due to all the positive health benefits that can be gained from receiving massage.
Most gyms, clinics, hospitals, and even some offices have massage facilities. At many service stations on the motorways, a massage chair is often available for a small charge to revitalise you for your onward journey.
Some massages are purely for relaxation, which can have a calming effect and help with the stresses and strains of everyday life, which obviously helps with general well-being. But massage, in general, can be used for a variety of other health benefits, such as back pain and headaches, including migraines, sports injuries, etc., and it can help with sleep problems, too.
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: 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.
Qualifications that use the RQF rules are made up of units. This provides flexible ways to get a qualification. Each unit has a credit value which tells you how many credits are awarded when a unit is completed. The credit value also indicates how long it will normally take you to prepare for a unit or qualification. One credit will usually take you 10 hours of learning. Units build up to qualifications.
There are three different types of qualifications in the RQF: Award, Certificate and Diploma. The title of a qualification will tell you its size and level. If a qualification includes a unit that you have already been awarded, you can use the unit you have already taken towards that qualification. Units awarded by different awarding organisations can be combined to build up qualifications.
This course is accredited by VTCT/ITEC (International Therapy Examination Council—www.itecworld.co.uk). On graduation, practitioners can also join IPTI (Independent Professional Therapists International—www.iptiuk.com), FHT (Federation of Holistic Therapists), BCMA (British Complementary Medicine Association—www.bcma.co.uk), and CThA (Complementary Therapy Association).
To provide a friendly and secure environment where students can learn the art of classical massage techniques with the support and guidance of experienced tutors.
Session format
Classes will involve lectures, demonstrations and students working in pairs under close supervision. Please arrive promptly.
Unit iUCT34; iUCT21 and iUCT38 are taught by guided online learning.
Uniform—Students should wear navy blue, grey, white, or black joggers or bottoms and a tunic or polo shirt when doing practical work. Trainers may be worn during the college practical session.
We will be providing you with a complimentary College polo shirt once the course starts.
Please note that for VTCT/ITEC exams, you will need to adhere to the strict dress code for the practical exam, which has some adaptations from what we recommend above. You will be informed of this nearer the time.
All jewellery to be removed during massage sessions, and long nails should be cut short.
What do you need to bring/purchase?
You will need to purchase the course textbook: “Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology for Therapists and Healthcare Professionals” by Ruth Hull et al, for approximately £16. During the course, you will also need to purchase a massage couch. You will be advised on this during the teaching sessions. They vary in price starting from approximately £60 upwards to £500 and more. You will be shown a variety of couches to help your decision.
Two extra large towels. We recommend a dark colour, which doesn’t show oil marks too much. You must bring your freshly laundered towels to each session.
A pen and notepad/ course textbooks should be brought to each session.
Massage Course information
Absences – Students will be allowed to miss a maximum of two days course time. Students will have to make efforts to catch up on any areas they have missed. If you require extra tuition, this will be available at £50 per hour.
Students who are unable to complete the course due to illness, or any other circumstances, may, on the production of a doctor’s certificate, transfer onto the next available course – however, this will be at the discretion of the college and a supplementary fee may be applicable.
Please note, that if you choose to defer your place and a course is no longer taught at the College, you will not be eligible for any refund, and the college holds no responsibility for any financial losses.
All coursework and 36 case studies will have to be completed before you take the ITEC exam. If work is not completed under ITEC regulations, you will not be able to be entered for the exam. If students do not wish to take the exam, a certificate of attendance will be awarded, which will not qualify the holder for professional practice. There is no reduction in course fees even if you do not wish to sit the exam.
College Conditions
All students should treat each other with due care and respect. A member of staff will deal with any abusive, threatening or derogatory behaviour. If the matter cannot be resolved, the student will be asked to leave the course. In this circumstance, no refund will be available.
Students should respect all property and equipment. Students found causing damage to property or equipment through negligence or intent, will be liable to costs.
Before the end of the course, you will need to complete a one day first aid course, for which you will need to provide evidence. This is called an Emergency First Aid course and is valid for 3 years.
Course fees
The registration fee is non-refundable. No refunds will be given on course fees from six weeks before the course commences. Payments of fees should be made in full on the dates specified by the college on its website or given in writing. Failure to do so will result in the student being removed from the course and action taken to recover the outstanding amount. If you request to pay via an instalment payment plan, please note that you are entering into a legally binding contract with us. If you do not complete the course, for whatever reason, you are still liable to pay the whole fee.
Examinations
All coursework has to be completed before you take the exam, with no exceptions. The date for the exam will be organised with the ITEC board. Students will be informed of examination regulations and procedures. Any student failing an exam, or unable to attend will be given the opportunity to resit the exam only if we are able to accommodate this with a later exam that is already booked or scheduled to be booked. The exam fee of 150 is payable 6 weeks before the exam date. Please note we normally have practical exams booked several times a year but transferring to another exam booking will incur a supplementary fee and is normally at the discretion of the college.
Appeals and Complaints
Should you wish to address an appeal or complaint to the college, please do so as soon as possible, and in the first instance to the course tutor. Alternatively, please do so in writing/email. We will try to respond to your request as quickly as we can within normal office hours.
Should you feel we have been unable to help you with your appeal or complaint you may contact ITEC through the student page on their website www.itecworld.co.uk.
Equal Opportunities
The College of Classical Massage is an equal-opportunity employer and education provider. The College of Classical Massage is committed to ensuring equal opportunities, fairness of treatment, dignity, work-life balance and the elimination of all forms of discrimination in the workplace for all staff and students. We aim to create a working environment in which all individuals are able to make best use of their skills, free from discrimination or harassment, and in which all decisions are based on merit. And we have adopted this policy as a means of helping to achieve these aims.
By booking on to this course and sending your registration fee you agree to abide by our terms and conditions in this contract.
