BTEC 4 or 5 Sports Massage Diploma

for Post Graduates is designed specifically for people who have a degree in a related field. This 11-day course builds on that existing knowledge and experience, giving students new skills and a broader professional offer.

BTEC 4 and 5 are professional qualifications and this is a demanding course. Your prior learning will be essential to your success and we expect candidates to have an excellent understanding of functional anatomy and assessment skills.

Syllabus
Classes are held approximately every 2-3 weeks, to allow enough time for home practice and course work. Course work includes 3 papers; an extensive case history; and 100 logbook hours before the final exam can be taken. For further information about the course content please visit our syllabus section on the website.

Level 4 or 5?
It is your choice whether to study for Level 4 or 5. Taught classes are the same for each but your course work and final exam questions will be different. See here for an explanation of the main differences between the two levels.

Teaching Staff
NLSSM tutors are thoroughly trained in anatomy & physiology. They are qualified sports massage therapists who are able to perform the highest level of techniques.

All tutors have successful practices of their own, and can offer extensive hands-on experience. Bringing years of experience working with elite performance athletes, medical practitioners and physical therapists, many of the tutors hold further credentials in osteopathy, nursing, biomechanics, sports coaching, functional fitness and Pilates.

Helping to ensure students get the attention they need to develop their skills, we have a ratio of one teacher to every three - four students during the practical sessions.

Our training methods are based on 'accelerated learning' innovative techniques to ensure students learn more and retain the information.

What’s Not Included

• Student Insurance: if you don’t currently have insurance there is the possibility to request a student add on, otherwise NLSSM has negotiated a very reasonable rate with Balens. Full information will be included in your welcome pack.
• First Aid: We find that a lot of students already have their First Aid certificate (HSE-approved Appointed Persons is also acceptable) so we don’t include it in the price. If you do need to obtain it, NLSSM offers an accredited First Aid course that specifically caters to the needs of sport & remedial massage students. See here for dates and further information.
• Final Exams: (Practical and Written) are £150 with exam dates available throughout the year. Students have the option to register and attend any of the offered dates within a 12-month period.

Purchases
Each student will need access to a couch to complete their practical work. It is recommended that you obtain a couch prior to starting the course. See "Choosing a Massage Couch". Tarsus & Marshcouch offer a 10% discount to all students enrolled on the NLSSM sports massage course. Further information on recommended massage couches is available on our Useful Links page.

After enrolling onto the main course students will receive a reading list recommending books, these are optional.

Examinations
During the course of study students will undergo 3 practical assessments, they will be responsible for 3 pieces of course work, 1 case history and 100 hours of external practical practice sessions. At the conclusion, there will be a 2-hour theory exam and 1 practical assessments and a viva equalling 1 1/2 hours, which are externally validated.

Awards
Successful practitioners will receive a diploma from the NLSSM and BTEC/EDEXCEL. This qualification is the highest nationally recognized professional diploma in the UK and will enable you to work as a professional Sport & Remedial Massage Therapist and obtain full comprehensive insurance. It will also entitle you to apply for membership to the Sports Massage Association and/or LCSP and register with the GCMT (General Council for Massage Therapists) and apply for CNHC membership.