Massage: an introduction (access to level 3)
Choose a starting date
Learning modes and locations may be different depending on the course start date. Please check the location of your chosen course and read our guide to learning modes and locations to help you choose the right course for you.
- Start Date: 08 Sep 2025End Date: 13 Oct 2025Mon (Evening): 18:00 - 21:00In PersonLocation: Kean Street Wellbeing CentreDuration: 6 sessions (over 6 weeks)Course Code: FTQ65Tutors: Hilary LyonsFull fee £299.00 Senior fee £299.00 Concession £209.00
- Start Date: 27 Oct 2025End Date: 01 Dec 2025Mon (Evening): 18:00 - 21:00In PersonLocation: Kean Street Wellbeing CentreDuration: 6 sessions (over 6 weeks)Course Code: FTQ75Tutors: Hilary LyonsFull fee £299.00 Senior fee £299.00 Concession £209.00
- Start Date: 05 Jan 2026End Date: 09 Feb 2026Mon (Evening): 18:00 - 21:00In PersonLocation: Kean Street Wellbeing CentreDuration: 6 sessions (over 6 weeks)Course Code: FNQ16Tutors: Hilary LyonsFull fee £299.00 Senior fee £299.00 Concession £209.00
- Start Date: 16 Feb 2026End Date: 23 Mar 2026Mon (Evening): 18:00 - 21:00In PersonLocation: Kean Street Wellbeing CentreDuration: 6 sessions (over 6 weeks)Course Code: FNQ17Tutors: Hilary LyonsFull fee £299.00 Senior fee £299.00 Concession £209.00
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
This course will introduce you to the fundamental theory and practices of therapeutic massage. Gain an insight into how massage can alleviate stress and promote relaxation and healing through touch. An excellent introduction for those wishing to develop a new skill or progress on to accredited courses such as ITEC Level 3 Massage Diploma or ITEC Level 3 Complementary Therapies Diploma. Please note this is an open access course, both men and women may participate.
What will we cover?
This course will cover the value of touch, the importance of hygiene in massage practice, and general client care. You will also be introduced to the indications and contraindications of massage. Gain basic knowledge of a variety of massage techniques including effleurage, petrissage and percussion on areas of the body such as the back, legs, arms, hands and feet.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Guide a person into a comfortable position in preparation for a massage treatment
- Identify a suitable massage oil to use on a person - considering skin types and reactions
- Name some indications and contraindications to massage
- Name and perform some basic massage movements (to include effleurage, petrissage and percussion)
- Briefly describe some values of touch in a safe and supportive environment
- Recognise the importance of hygiene before, during and after a massage treatment.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
No previous knowledge or experience of massage is required. You should be able to: Follow instructions, make contributions in group discussions, write and read short text, use simple measurements.
Please contact your GP for advice if you have any health conditions which may impact on your participation in the course. In addition, please ensure that you tell the tutor about any conditions or concerns at the start of the course.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
You will be guided through the course by way of lecture, small group work and pair work. The emphasis will be on the practical application of massage using couches provided by the College.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
The collage will provide towles, wipes,sanitiser and massage oils. Please bring a notepad and pen.
Please also be aware that personal hygiene is an important aspect to consider when practising massage as you will be in close contact with other people.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
- ITEC Level 3 Massage Diploma
- ITEC Level 3 Complementary Therapies Diploma
- other Health and Wellbeing courses at City Lit.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.