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Sports Massage Therapy - Level 3

Summary

The Level 3 Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy provides the knowledge, understanding and skills to work as a sports massage practitioner. Expert tutors deliver a relevant, up-to-date curriculum within specialist facilities at our Bispham Campus. A combination of theory and substantial practical instruction equips you with the expertise needed to be successful.

It is a requirement that out of class independent tasks, externally set assessments and research are completed throughout the course.

Next course dates

Start date Location Duration
06 Nov 2025
Bispham Campus
24 Weeks

Where can this subject lead?

Career progression

On completion of this course, you will be able to gain employment and obtain insurance to work as a sports massage therapist. You may also choose to study the subject at a higher level, e.g., degree level to become a sports therapist, or physiotherapist.

Key information

Entry Requirements

This course has been designed for those aged 19 and over who wish to pursue a career in the sports massage therapy industry. Performing sports massage is a physical activity and learners will need to be fit enough to carry this out.

Learners should have or be working towards a minimum level 2 maths and English.  All students will be required to undertake an interview prior to enrolment.

Qualification obtained

Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy

Fees and funding

Some courses are fully funded for adult learners and, for those that aren’t, you can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan.

You may also be eligible for financial support which can include help with childcare. To check if you’re eligible and to apply for financial help, visit our dedicated page on Financial Support for Adult Learners.

Extra costs and equipment

All students will be expected to provide their own stationery, to include: pens, notepad and an A4 folder. Replacement ID badges will be at a cost of £5 or £10 if incorporated with a bus pass. For photocopying, students are provided with the first 80 black and white free of charge.  Any additional copies for black and white are charged at 4p per copy.

Regulation and Accreditation

Accrediting Institution: N/A

Awarding Body: Pearson

Terms and conditions

Read our full terms and conditions for more information.

What will I learn?

Industry placement, field trips and guest speakers

Work placement is not compulsory on this course; however, we recommend that you complete a work placement to see how the skills that you will learn are used.  The college may be able to provide placement opportunities at local, national, and global events, depending on demand.

How will I learn?

At Blackpool and The Fylde College, we recognise that all students learn differently and for some it may be a return to the classroom following a break from formal learning.  Our tutors work with you to ensure that their teaching methods support the way that you like to learn.

One key teaching and learning method is that of demonstrations.  Your tutors ensure that demonstrations are used whenever possible so you can see the practical skill being used so you can then practise the skill.  You will work collaboratively with your peers in group work, presentations and within practical sessions. There will be dedicated individual/self-study time on your programme which needs to be supported by your own study out of the College learning environments.

E-learning is also a key element of all our courses and will involve you in using our Canvas platform for independent study and learning. Microsoft Teams, and email, are available to further support you.

Within the curriculum we also use a range of on-line apps to support, enhance and motivate learning.  Your tutors will be support you with new technologies used in the classroom.

Your tutors will support you in preparing for your examinations alongside your own responsibility for your learning.

Expert tutors

All staff involved in the delivery of adult education courses within the College are approved to teach the subjects and modules they deliver.

The approval process ensures that staff delivering a given programme are appropriately qualified and, where appropriate, possess relevant technical and industrial experience and professional practice.

How will I be assessed?

How will I be assessed?

The assessments for this qualification will be through a multiple-choice exam, practical demonstration, assignments which will be externally set, internally assessed, and externally verified. Your tutor has vast experience of supporting students to prepare for, and perform to their best, in assessments.

You will complete five mandatory units:

  • Anatomy and Physiology for Sports Massage – Externally set exam (27%)
  • Principles of Health and Fitness – Worksheet assessment (8%)
  • Under the Principles of Soft Tissue Dysfunction - Worksheet assessment (8%)
  • Professional Practice in Sports Massage - Worksheet and assignment assessments (14%)
  • Sports Massage Treatments – Worksheet, tutor observations and self-evaluation assessments (43%)

This qualification will be delivered, assessed, and assured in line with:

  • CNHC code of conduct, ethics, and performance
  • National Occupational Standard (Sports massage/fitness instructing)
  • ActiveIQ assessment guidance and evidence requirements

There is a mix of written assignments, externally set exam, workbooks, and practical assessments.