Massage Course, Brighton

Wednesdays from October 2026

October 7th, 14th, 21st

November 4th, 11th, 25th

December 9th

2027: January 6th, 13th, 27th

Exam: to be confirmed. (February 2027)

Times: 10am – 5pm

Current course dates:

February 25th, March 4th, 11th, 18th, April 15th, 22nd, May 13th,20th, June 3rd, 17th.

Secure your place now by sending us your booking form.

What is included in the massage course fee?

• 10 full days of classroom, hands-on massage tuition at the College of Classical Massage
• All guided blended online and classroom-based 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 offers high-quality training DVD/download.
• Complimentary refreshments provided all day.

What is not included in the course fee?

• Exam Fee: If you choose to take the ITEC examination, the exam fee of £150 is payable 6 weeks before the exam date.
• Books: You will need to purchase the massage course textbook: Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology for Therapists and Healthcare Professionals by Ruth Hull et al, approximately £19.
• Massage Couch: 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 with your decision.
• First Aid Course: Before the exam, we highly recommend you undertake a one-day workshop in First Aid that will give you a 3-year First Aid certificate.  Most insurers will require that you have this before starting to practise massage.  Many providers are offering this.

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 the course fees, but not on the registration fee.

If you have any queries regarding payment, please contact us.

Instalments – there is an option to pay the course fees over 4 equal monthly instalments.  Please contact us for further details at [email protected]. Please note, there is an administrative surcharge of £50 for instalment payment plans.

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.

Find out more here.

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 before commencing the VTCT/ITEC Level 3 Diploma in Massage; however, exemptions may be made for adult returners with experience in the workplace.

You should be of reasonably good health and not suffering from any current medical conditions which would hinder your ability to give and receive treatment.  Please let us know if you have any medical conditions or individual learning needs that you feel we should be aware of.

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

Massage:

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.  We have a low student-to-tutor ratio that ensures personalised attention and an enhanced learning experience.

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.

You will need to complete 36 case studies on a minimum of 15 clients.  We give you full guidance on when to start and how to do this.  We also give you feedback throughout the training.

The massage exam is a 45-minute practical exam observed by an ITEC examiner.

Click here for the full VTCT/ITEC syllabus and sample papers.

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 primarily through supported online self-study and classroom-based tuition.  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 Anatomy and Physiology exam is classroom-based.  It is a 55-minute multiple-choice paper of 50 questions.

Other Units:

iUCT34 – Business practice for complementary therapies

iUCT21 – Principles and practice of complementary therapies

These two units are delivered via online guided PowerPoints and supplemented with feedback from tutors. Assessment is based on the assignments you create.

Level 3 Qualification and Accreditation

Studying for a Level 3 qualification is crucial as it signifies that you have achieved a nationally recognised standard of expertise in your field. This recognition not only enhances your professional credibility but also provides you with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in your career.

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 enabling 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.

This massage 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. www.iptiuk.com), FHT (Federation of Holistic Therapists), BCMA (British Complementary Medicine Association www.bcma.co.uk), and CThA (Complementary Therapy Association), amongst others.

Unit 4 Natural Health Centre, 20-26 Round Hill Street, Brighton  BN2 3RG

Check out our Venue page for more information.

Check out our extensive 5* reviews on Google here.

“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 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, knowledgeable, grounded, compassionate, and empowering; Michael Gibbons’ teaching is exactly what I  had been looking for in a massage diploma. Calm and confident practical massage teaching demonstrations alongside a thorough and in-depth 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

ITEC Diploma in Massage – Student Contract 2026

Please view our cancellation policy before booking your course.

Aims of the College

Our mission is to provide a welcoming and secure environment where students can master the art of classical massage techniques, supported by experienced tutors.

Session Format

Classes will consist of lectures, demonstrations, and paired practice under close supervision. We kindly request that you arrive promptly.

Unit iUCT24, the practical massage unit, is taught fully hands-on and classroom-based.  You will also practise massage in your own time by completing 36 case studies on a minimum of 15 clients.

Units iUCT34 and iUCT21 are delivered through guided online learning, while Unit iUCT38 employs a blended approach combining both online and classroom-based tuition.

Uniform: Students are recommended to wear comfortable clothing to work in, for example, joggers along with a tunic/t-shirt or polo shirt during practical sessions. Trainers are permitted during practical classes.

Please be aware that for VTCT/ITEC examinations, adherence to a specific dress code will be required for the practical exam, which may differ from our recommendations. Further details will be provided closer to the exam date.

All jewellery must be removed during massage sessions, and long nails should be trimmed.

What You Need to Bring/Purchase

• Textbook: You will need to purchase the course textbook, Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathology for Therapists and Healthcare Professionals by Ruth Hull et al., priced at approximately £19.
• Massage Couch: During the course, you will be required to acquire a massage couch. Guidance on this will be provided, and prices vary from approximately £60 to over £500. Various options will be presented to assist with your decision.
• Towels: Please bring two extra-large towels, preferably in a dark colour to minimise visible oil marks. Towels must be freshly laundered for each session.
• Supplies: A pen and a notepad.

Massage Course Information

Absences: Students are permitted to miss a maximum of two course days. It is the student’s responsibility to catch up on any missed material. If additional tuition is needed, this will be available at a rate of £50 per hour.

In the event that a student is unable to complete the massage course due to illness or other circumstances, a transfer to the next available course may be granted upon submission of a doctor’s certificate, subject to the college’s discretion and possibly a supplementary fee.

Please note that if you choose to defer your place and the course is no longer offered at the college, you will not be entitled to a refund, and the college accepts no liability for any financial losses incurred.

All coursework, including 36 case studies and the two assignments, must be completed prior to sitting the ITEC exam. If coursework is incomplete, students will not be permitted to register for the exam. Those opting not to take the exam will receive a certificate of attendance, which does not qualify them for professional practice. Course fees remain unchanged regardless of exam participation.

Massage Course Fees

The registration fee is non-refundable. No refunds on course fees will be issued within six weeks of the course commencement. Full payment of fees is required by the dates specified on the college’s website or in writing. Failure to comply will result in the student being removed from the course, and action may be taken to recover any outstanding amounts.

Opting for an instalment payment plan constitutes a legally binding contract. If you do not complete the course for any reason, you remain liable for the full fee.  We will take action to recover any unpaid fees.

Examinations

All coursework must be completed before taking the exam. The exam date will be scheduled in coordination with the ITEC board, and students will be informed of examination regulations and procedures.  Once you choose to sit the ITEC exam, you are liable for the examination fee of £150.  The exam fee of £150 is due six weeks prior to the exam date.

Students who fail an exam or are unable to attend will have the opportunity to resit the exam, provided this is feasible with a later scheduled exam.  While practical exams are typically scheduled multiple times a year, transferring to another exam session may incur a supplementary fee and is subject to the college’s discretion.

College Conditions

All students are expected to treat one another with care and respect. Any abusive, threatening, or derogatory behaviour will be addressed by a staff member. If the issue remains unresolved, the student may be asked to leave the course, and no refund will be issued in such cases.

Students are responsible for respecting all college property and equipment. Any damages caused by negligence or intentional actions will result in liability for the associated costs.

Before completing the massage course, it is recommended that students undertake a one-day Emergency First Aid course, which remains valid for three years. Most professional massage organisations and insurance providers require this certification prior to engagement in practice.

Appeals and Complaints

If you wish to raise an appeal or complaint, please do so as soon as possible, initially addressing it to the course tutor. Alternatively, you may submit it in writing or via email. We will strive to respond promptly during normal office hours.

Should you feel that your appeal or complaint has not been adequately addressed, you may contact ITEC through the student page on their website at www.itecworld.co.uk.

Equal Opportunities

The College of Classical Massage is an equal opportunity employer and education provider. We are committed to ensuring equal opportunities, fairness, dignity, work-life balance, and the elimination of all forms of discrimination for all staff and students. Our objective is to foster a working environment where individuals can excel in their skills, free from discrimination or harassment, and where all decisions are based on merit. This policy has been adopted to help achieve these aims.

By enrolling in this massage course and submitting your registration fee, you agree to abide by the terms and conditions outlined in this contract.