Level 3 Sports Massage Therapy Course in Ilkeston. Classes run at Derby College Broomfield Hall Campus, full-time during the day. This sports massage therapy course runs over 36 weeks and builds the knowledge and practical skills needed to work as a sports massage therapist, either employed or self-employed. The qualification was developed with input from the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) and meets the National Occupational Standards set by Skills for Health. You'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, ideally including maths and English.
Who this course is for
The Level 3 Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy is a technical level qualification aimed at developing the knowledge, understanding and skills needed for a career as a sports massage therapist, either employed or self-employed.This qualification was developed collaboratively with input from the industry through the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) and meets the National Occupational Standards as set out by Skills for Health. Students who may previously have studied Beauty Therapy courses may wish to advance their specialisms by adding sports massage to their CV.Learners also study a range of additional qualifications in preparation for progression to the Level 4 Certificate in Sports Massage Therapy.
Entry requirements
You need:Five GCSEs at grades 4 or higher which should ideally include both maths and EnglishGood customer service and communication skillsExcellent personal hygiene, appearance and professional demeanourA flexibility to work at events and external opportunities throughout the academic yearLinks with sports teams, clubs or fitness centres are desirable to ensure your work placements are set up immediately. Please enquire about combining this qualification with Sports Science should you wish to p
What you will learn
You'll develop sports massage techniques used before, during, and after physical activity.
You'll learn anatomy and physiology relevant to sports and soft tissue therapy.
You'll understand how to assess clients and adapt treatments to their needs.
You'll practise professional consultation and client communication skills.
You'll learn health, safety, and hygiene standards required in a therapy setting.
You'll gain experience through work placements at sports events and external opportunities.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions and practical hands-on training at Derby College Broomfield Hall Campus. Assessment includes practical demonstrations, written assignments, and client case studies. An interview is required before you start. You'll also take part in work placements at sports events and external venues throughout the year, which form part of your assessed practice.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Derby College Broomfield Hall Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start. The provider notes that excellent personal hygiene, professional appearance, and flexibility to attend external events are expected throughout the course.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Sports massage therapist - work with athletes or general clients in clinics or gyms.
Self-employed massage therapist - build your own client base at events or from a home studio.
Gym or leisure centre therapist - provide recovery and injury-prevention treatments on-site.
Sports club therapist - support players at training sessions and match days.
Beauty therapist - this qualification adds a specialist skill to a broader therapy career.
What you could study next
Level 4 Certificate in Sports Massage Therapy - the natural next step, deepening clinical knowledge and expanding the client conditions you can treat.
Level 3 or 4 qualifications in Sports Science - the provider notes you can enquire about combining this course with Sports Science for those aiming toward university-level study.
Higher education in Sports Therapy or Physiotherapy - university programmes that build on this foundation for those wanting to work in clinical or rehabilitation settings.
