VTCT Level 5 Certificate in Sports Massage Therapy

General Entry Requirements

The general entry requirements below identify the minimum qualifications needed to apply for the programme. Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis on application. You are required to upload a copy of your qualification certificates to show how you meet the entry requirements for the programme prior to enrolment. Applications will also require successful completion of the admissions process.

GCSE/ Level 2 Requirements: 

• GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

AND

• GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification. 
• You must have completed the Level 4 Certificate in Sports Massage Therapy or equivalent in order to undertake this qualification.
• This course requires an interview and skills test. 
  

Accreditation of Prior Learning   

Alternatively, you can provide evidence of your ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process, either through Accredited Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or Accredited Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).   Further details on APL can be found in the HE Admissions Process section of our website and the HE Accreditation of Prior Learning SOP.  

International Students English Language Requirements  

International applicants, from Non-Native English speaking countries, must have evidence of English Language Level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages:  

• IELTS 6.0 (Academic) (minimum of 5.5 in all skills)   
• PTE Academic 51 (minimum of 46 in each part)  
• Or equivalent UKVI-approved English Language Test  

For further information please contact our International Department at international@serc.ac.uk  

For Learning Outcome 1 (Be able to undertake assessment of sports specific postures and gait) competent performance of Observation outcomes must be demonstrated on at least one occasion. For Learning Outcomes 2 (Be able to conduct complex assessment methods for sports massage) and 3 (Be able to devise a sports massage treatment plan from information gathered) competent performance of Observation outcomes must be demonstrated on at least five occasions on a minimum of 5 clients. Assessor observations, witness testimonies and products of work are likely to be the most appropriate sources of performance evidence. Professional discussion may be used as supplementary evidence for those criteria that do not naturally occur. Feedback is offered throughout the process in both verbal and written format.

Your assessor will observe your performance of practical tasks. The minimum number of competent observations required is indicated in the Evidence requirements section of this unit. Criteria may not always naturally occur during a practical observation. In such instances you will be asked questions to demonstrate your competence in this area. Your assessor will document the criteria that have been achieved through professional discussion and/or oral questioning. This evidence will be recorded by your assessor in written form or by other appropriate means. Your assessor will sign off a learning outcome when all criteria have been competently achieved. The range section indicates what must be covered. Ranges should be practically demonstrated as part of an observation. Your assessor will document the portfolio reference once a range has been competently achieved.

On completion of this qualification you will be qualified for roles such as a Level 5 Sports Massage Practitioner using a variety of soft tissue and assessment techniques. You will be able to work with recent non-acute injuries and pre-existing conditions. This may include working in clinics, for sporting teams or as a mobile therapist. This may be in an employed or self-employed context.

The VTCT Level 5 Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy (QCF) has been designed to provide experienced practitioners currently working in sport and active leisure, with the requisite understanding and complex skills and techniques to work as an advanced sports massage practitioner.  Successful completion of this course will equip you to work with clientele ranging from recreational sport and active leisure enthusiasts to professional sports persons and elite athletes.

Recommended reading list:  

• Myofascial Release (Hands-On Guides for Therapists) Paperback  – 15 Jun 2014  by Ruth Duncan - £24.99  
• The Concise Book of Trigger Points Paperback  – 29 Aug 2014  by Simeon Niel-Asher - £15.99  
• Muscle Energy Techniques: A Practical Handbook for Physical Therapists Paperback  – 30 Nov 2011 by John Gibbons - £13.99  
• Postural Assessment (Hands-On Guides for Therapists) Paperback  – 1 Feb 2012 by Jane Johnson - £25.99  

Massage kit to include; oil, towels, bolster, couch roll.

Uniform cost:  t-shirt approximately £20