The good news is that I passed my Neuromuscular Therapy exams. I would like to pass on my sincere thanks to all the team in NTC for helping me in step one of a plan. You are a great team with wonderful tutors.
Learn the fundamentals of massage, such as proper posture, draping, positioning, hygiene, and various massage techniques with part-time courses for those with busy schedules, or anyone looking to make a career change.
We know that there are many courses for you to choose from out there but we guarantee that you will not find another course that exceeds the minimum required standards, only uses fully qualified tutors, and delivers everything you need to hit the ground running.
Our National Qualification in Holistic Massage is both exciting and affordable, offering students a part-time method of weekend timetabling that makes it entirely achievable and accessible.
The SMA have verified the course to be recognised by Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council as meeting the requirements of the Core Curriculum for Massage Therapy.
NTC meet all the requirements of the verification process and graduates of this course will be accepted onto the Massage Therapy Register approved by the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care.
Some of the many unsolicited testimonials we have received from graduates of the NTC's courses
The good news is that I passed my Neuromuscular Therapy exams. I would like to pass on my sincere thanks to all the team in NTC for helping me in step one of a plan. You are a great team with wonderful tutors.
Thanks once again for an inspiring and enlightening weekend (although my wife’s upper trapezius muscles may disagree!). Learnt loads and I am very excited about the future of my practice. Although already incredibly busy I find treating people with pain much more interesting and fulfilling than a runner with a tweaked calf. The education you have given me is truly going to develop me as a practitioner in such a dramatic way. Thanks, John. Sad the course is coming to an end but will thoroughly recommend to others and will look to do the Masters in the future.
I’ve frequently found myself enamored by the anatomy of the human body, and have always held a desire to enter into a field of manual therapies. The NMT course has brought me to the beginning of a journey that embodies both. Beyond the comprehensive materials delivered within the course, I’ve also found that it has brought me to a community that shares in a wide breath of resources and abilities to assist in the betterment and wellness practices of life. I am so grateful for my experience with the National Training Centre; to all the staff and tutors who always made themselves readily available, for all their guidance, their rich knowledge and aptitude to help develop myself and the other students into qualified NMTs. With deep gratitude for Larry, Chris, John, Michelle and Kevin; you have all impacted my world in such a meaningful way.
My experience at NTC was an enjoyable and positive one. This is where I realised my interest in Anatomy, Physiology and caring for people and is the main reason I’ve decided to go back to studying Nursing. I met some fantastic people during my time at NTC and what I learned has played a huge part in me getting a place on Nursing studies. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff and tutors for guiding me to where I am now.
Thank you to John Sharkey and all the NTC tutors. The Advanced European Neuromuscular Therapy course has been an eye-opener for me because of my background in Personal Training and Sports Massage. I have learnt unique ways of treating pain and have been applying these techniques to my existing clients. In particular, a long-term client of mine with knee chronic pain, after few hours of treatment her knee pain has reduced by 80 percent. Once again thank you to all NTC tutors this would not have been possible without you. It is a shame the course has come to an end but I also can’t wait to treat people with chronic pain and do a diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy. I will definitely recommend this course to a friend or a family member.
I really enjoyed the course and the highly engaged and motivated tutors. I found the course very interesting and was fascinated by the individual components of NMT. I would like to thank everybody involved for their highly valuable input, knowledge and support while studying.
(Remember there's even more info in the FAQ section below)
Holistic massage views the body, mind, and spirit as interconnected, promoting natural healing through balance and harmony. The term “holistic” comes from the Greek word “holos,” meaning whole. This therapy helps the body function optimally by addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
During a session, the therapist tailors techniques to the client’s needs, focusing on relaxation and tension release. Rather than treating symptoms alone, holistic massage supports overall well-being and vitality.
This course is unique in Ireland as it has full accreditation from the SMA, The Association for Soft Tissue Therapists.
The SMA have verified the NTC National Qualification in Holistic Massage, developed and delivered by the National Training Centre (NTC) in order for this course to be recognised by CNHC as meeting the requirements of the Core Curriculum for Massage Therapy.
This comprehensive programme covers classical anatomy, physiology, myology, and modern anatomy principles, including tensegrity, embryology, and fascia science. It provides a strong foundation in holistic massage, practical applications, and myofascial cupping, along with specialised techniques for different populations.
Emphasising the connection between massage, nutrition, lifestyle, and wellness, the curriculum also includes health screening, consultation processes, and healthcare safety. Professional practice, business, and ethics training prepare students for the challenges of running a massage therapy business.
With a focus on both technical skills and holistic understanding, this programme equips graduates with the expertise needed for success in massage therapy.
The National Qualification in Holistic Massage programme covers all relevant areas including:
Unit 1 Anatomy and Physiology
The cells and an overview of the skin. The skeletal system. The muscular system. The Circulatory and lymphatic system. The Respiratory system. The Nervous system. The endocrine system
Unit 2 Lifestyle and healthy eating
Benefits of a healthy lifestyle and physical activity. Nutrition and digestion. Short / long term effects of a sedentary lifestyle and it’s influence on health. Making the right food choices
Unit 3 Foundation of Massage
Theory History and benefits of massage therapy. Draping procedures. Contraindications and hygiene. Considerations for massage and special populations. Communication skills
Unit 4 Techniques
Practical Full body massage techniques for the leg, foot, back, shoulders, arms, hands, chest, abdomen, face, head and neck. Use of lubricants and bolsters. Positioning of client. Posture of massage therapist
Unit 5 Ethics and professional development
Health Safety. Code of ethics and professional conduct. Business and self promotion. Professional responsibilities e. g insurance, taxes, ongoing CPD.
Assessment
Theory Assessment (60 minutes). Submission of learner workbook. Practical Assessment
The cost of obtaining the National Qualification in Holistic Massage is €1,495.00. Places can be reserved by payment of a deposit of €495.00 with the balance of €1,000.00 due one week prior to the course start date.
A discount of €155.00 is available to individuals paying fees of €1,340.00 (whether in a single payment or a combination of deposit and balance) in full one calendar month prior to course commencement date.
The cost of the electronic programme manual and examinations is included within the course fee.
Places on this programme are available on a first come first served basis.
The National Qualification in Holistic Massage is an inclusive programme that welcomes everyone, regardless of their educational background. There are no formal education requirements for participation in this course.
Applicants are expected to have a keen interest in learning about the human body and the practice of massage therapy. As part of the course, you will have the opportunity to give and receive massage treatments with your fellow classmates, which involves using hands-on therapy techniques.
Our programme is designed to provide a comprehensive education in holistic massage, including the foundations of anatomy, physiology, and myology, as well as practical applications of massage therapy. By participating in this course, you will develop the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field of massage therapy, regardless of your previous educational background.
Whether you are seeking a career change or simply looking to expand your knowledge and skills, the National Qualification in Holistic Massage is a great starting point. Our inclusive approach to education means that anyone with a passion for massage therapy can participate and succeed.
Study is supported by full online documentation and demonstration videos (sample below) available to students of the course via the NTC Learning Portal.
Only fully qualified tutors deliver the National Qualification in Holistic Massage which is directed by internationally renowned pain and injury expert, John Sharkey, MSc.
Amanda’s love for complementary therapies has driven her to focus primarily on sports massage. She recognises the importance of holistic approaches to wellness and the impact it can have on an individual’s physical and mental well-being. Her drive to continuously improve her skills in this field is evident, as she is always looking for opportunities to broaden her knowledge in manual therapies and bodywork.
Her dedication and hard work have paid and she has completed her studies at the National Training Centre’s Neuromuscular Therapy qualification course. This programme has provided her with a strong foundation in the latest techniques and practices in the industry and showcases her expertise in this area, highlighting her commitment to providing the highest standard of care to her clients.
Amanda is a highly motivated and knowledgeable professional, who is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of others through her work in complementary therapies.
John Sharkey is a well-known international educator, author, and expert in various fields such as Clinical Anatomy, Exercise Physiology, human movement, and manual treatment of chronic pain using European Neuromuscular Therapy. He is a graduate of the University of Dundee, University of Liverpool, and University of Chester, completing both undergraduate and post-graduate studies in Exercise Physiology and Clinical Anatomy. He also holds a post-graduate certificate in education.
John is a senior lecturer in the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Life Sciences at the University of Chester/NTC, Dublin. Additionally, he serves as the programme leader for the highly acclaimed series of Human Anatomy Dissection programmes , delivered past, present and future at King’s College London (England), The University of Dundee (Scotland), The Ohio State University (USA), Trecchi Human Academy (Italy) and The University of Witwatersrand School of Anatomical Sciences (South Africa). These courses are delivered teaching the geometry of anatomy and movement from the unique perspective of Biotensegrity-Anatomy for the 21st Century. His presentations are informative, entertaining, respectful, and insightful.
John is a proponent of the “Biotensegrity-Anatomy for the 21st century” model, which incorporates the groundbreaking work of his mentor, Dr. Stephen Levin MD. John is recognised as one of the foremost experts in the world on fascia and Biotensegrity. He specialises in teaching European Neuromuscular Therapy using living anatomy to address chronic pain conditions. Furthermore, he serves on the editorial board of professional journals such as the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies (JBMT) and the International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine.
Larry is a highly experienced NTC tutor who has a wealth of knowledge in the areas of resistance training and strength and conditioning. He holds the National University of Ireland’s Diploma in Training and Continuing Education, which is a highly respected qualification in the field of training and education. Larry’s expertise in resistance training is an invaluable asset to our fitness programmes, where he teaches students the most effective techniques to build strength, power, and endurance. Additionally, Larry heads up the strength and conditioning course, where he imparts his extensive knowledge and experience to aspiring fitness professionals.
Larry is also a tutor on the National Qualification in Neuromuscular Therapy. This qualification focuses on the assessment, treatment, and prevention of musculoskeletal injuries and dysfunctions using a combination of manual therapy techniques, therapeutic exercise, and postural and movement education. Larry’s expertise in this area is highly sought after, and he is widely recognised as an authority in the field of neuromuscular therapy.
In addition to his teaching work, Larry runs his own successful private practice for the treatment of pain, injury, and dysfunction. His experience and expertise in the field of neuromuscular therapy have made him highly effective in helping patients recover from a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. Larry’s passion for helping people achieve their physical goals and improve their overall quality of life is evident in both his teaching and his private practice. He is a highly respected figure in the fitness and wellness community, and his contributions to the field have been instrumental in advancing the science of resistance training and neuromuscular therapy.
Michelle is an accomplished and dedicated NTC tutor with over 20 years of experience in delivering educational excellence to students. Her passion for fitness and health is evident in her teaching, and she is committed to inspiring and empowering students to achieve their full potential. Michelle’s extensive knowledge and expertise in the field of fitness and nutrition are supported by her Masters Degree in Exercise and Nutrition Science from the University of Chester.
As a tutor, Michelle teaches a range of subjects on our primary health fitness programmes, including exercise to music, anatomy and physiology, fitness assessment, and exercise physiology. She also teaches extensively on our Neuromuscular Therapy and Holistic Massage courses. Michelle has a talent for breaking down complex concepts into easy-to-understand terms, making her teaching accessible to students of all levels. Michelle’s engaging and interactive teaching style keeps students motivated and focused, and she is always available to offer guidance and support when needed.
In addition to her primary teaching responsibilities, Michelle also delivers specialised courses in suspension training and indoor cycling. These courses are designed to provide students with advanced skills and knowledge in these popular and effective fitness techniques.
Beyond her work at NTC, Michelle is a passionate advocate for health and wellness. She is actively involved in local fitness and nutrition initiatives and is committed to promoting the benefits of healthy living in her community. Michelle’s dedication to her students and her profession has made her a valued member of the NTC team, and her contributions have helped to establish NTC as a leader in fitness education.
The National Training Centre have been delivering respected educational programmes since 1985 and during that time we have had many questions asked by potential students before registration. Here you can find the answers to the questions we receive most often.
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No. The National Qualification in Holistic Massage course is open to all individuals.
On successful completion you will be able to offer Holistic massage sessions to the general public.
This course is unique in Ireland as it has full accreditation from the SMA, The Association for Soft Tissue Therapists.
The SMA have verified the NTC National Qualification in Holistic Massage, developed and delivered by the National Training Centre (NTC) in order for this course to be recognised by CNHC as meeting the requirements of the Core Curriculum for Massage Therapy.
The verification process involved cross-refencing the learning outcomes of the NTC Holistic course, (both Knowledge & Understanding and Performance Criteria) to the National Occupation Standards CNH27 developed by Skills for Health. Quality assurance analysis was carried out to ensure the assessment process was fair and standardised and that teaching staff are appropriately qualified.
NTC meet all the requirements of the verification process and graduates of this course will be accepted onto the Massage Therapy Register approved by the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care.
As such, students can be assured that they are receiving a top-quality education that meets industry standards and will equip them with the skills they need to succeed in the field.
Yes. Holistic massage therapists are free to offer their services worldwide. If you have a specific country in mind you should ensure that you check with the relevant authority in that country before embarking on any programme of education.
The average cost of a one hour relaxation massage session is approximately €60.
The number of sessions you decide to offer each week will be determined by your own commitment.
One of the best things about qualifying as a massage therapist is that you can decide how many hours a day you want to work and therefore regulate your own earning potential.
Holistic massage therapists generally offer treatment directly to the public or within fitness centres, spas or beauty centres.
It should be noted that as with all professional qualifications at all levels, individual success will be result driven and will be in proportion to the time, effort and dedication you are prepared to offer the profession. Many National Training Centre graduates have started their careers on a part-time basis and have seen this aspect of their professional life overtake their full time career to become their primary or only occupation and source of income.
The National Qualification in Holistic Massage lasts approximately six months.
The course is available in Dublin, at the National Training Centre.
Learners are assessed formatively throughout the course and are summatively assessed at the end of term. Summative assessments includes:
Students will have to participate in self directed learning outside of class.
This will involve study and practice. NTC recommend that students allocate approximately 6 hours per week for this. The course requires commitment, time and effort in order to be a successful, knowledgeable and competent Holistic Massage Therapist.
Students must also complete 50 logged hours of massage treatments, record and file documentation and submit evidence as part of the learner workbook on completion of the course.
80% – to 90% of students participating on the course will successfully complete all of their final examinations on the first attempt. Of the remainder most will need to repeat one exam with a small number having to repeat more than one exam.
Every individual’s ability to succeed will be in direct proportion to the number of tutorials attended and the commitment and time and effort they are prepared to commit to their studies.
Students of all ages participate on the course. The minimum age for registration is 18 years old.
No – there is no installment payment option for the National Qualification in Holistic Massage. Course fees must be fully paid by the course start date.
It may be possible to make individual arrangements for those who request this. Call us on 01 882 7777 with enquiries.
Students of the National Training Centre regularly receive part funding through the Department of Social Protection’s Technical Employment Support Grant (TESG) scheme.
Individual students will need to contact their Local Employment Services (LES) facilitator to establish their eligibility.
For those who hold a recognised fitness instructor qualification which is recognised by REPs Ireland are eligible for up to 25% funding through the Leisure Health Fitness Skillnet. For more information contact Leisure Health Fitness Skillnet.
For assistance please contact the NTC office of administration on 01 882 7777.
The National Training Centre’s code of ethics requires that all NTC graduates who are actively working with the public, hold a professional indemnity insurance policy which covers them against legal action taken by a client as a result of an injury which was received by following the graduate’s professional advice. Graduates who are working on private premises may also need to hold public liability insurance if such cover is not held by the owners of the premises.
The National Training Centre have a customised insurance scheme with discounted rates available exclusively to those who have qualified with NTC. The policy is one of the broadest available including many important features that other policies may not offer.
The policy has been arranged through Balens Ltd and the insurer for the scheme is the Zurich and DAS Legal Expenses.
Balens are a very well established, fourth generation family-run business dedicated to looking after health professionals. They are built on solid roots going back to 1950 and are pioneers in the development of top quality cover for all types of health professionals with special rates and industry leading cover that has been developing and improving over 22 years in this speciality.
The scheme will cover thousands of other therapies/activities you may require cover for and many at no extra premium subject to suitable qualification held.
Some of the features covered in the policy consist of Medical Malpractice, Professional Indemnity, Public Liability, Product Liability, Loss of Reputation, Breach of Intellectual Property, Client Confidentiality Protection, Loss of Documents cover, First Aid cover as well as Good Samaritan Acts.
The indemnity limit is €4,000,000 per claim for the Republic of Ireland.
Unlike some other policies on the market, an unlimited number of claims may be made for any year and unlimited legal defence costs are also included.
Also included, at no extra charge, is retroactive cover to pick up any previous insured work.
Temporary cover abroad (excluding USA/Canada which is available on request) is available with no time restrictions and at no additional premium as long as you are a UK/Ireland resident.
If you cease to practice Balens include unlimited run off cover which means the policy will always be in place if a claim was made after you stop the policy running and this is also free of charge.
For further information or proposal form, please contact Balens directly on 00441684 580771 or e-mail- info@balens.co.uk
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ONSITE LESSONS
Practical classes take place either at NTC or SPORTSCO, Ringsend, Dublin 4
Saturday from 10:30am to 1pm and 2pm to 4:30pm
July 2025 – 26th♦
August 2025 – 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th
September 2025 – 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th
October 2025 – 4th, 11th, 18th♦, 25th
November 2025 – 1st, 8th♦, 15th, 22nd, 29th, 30th
December 2025 – 6th & 7th
Examinations and/or class will start at 9:30am on dates indicated with ♦
ONLINE LESSONS
Tuesday and Thursday Evenings from 7pm to 9pm
(Recordings available afterwards)
July 2025 – 29th, 31st
August 2025 – 5th, 7th, 12th, 14th, 19th, 21st, 26th, 28th
September 2025 – 2nd, 4th, 9th, 11th, 16th, 18th, 23rd, 25th, 30th
October 2025 – 2nd, 7th, 9th, 14th, 16th, 21st, 23rd
OPTIONAL FREE COURSE
National Qualification in Kettlebell Training
November 2nd, 2025 – Sunday from 10:00-17:00
ALL CONTENT DELIVERED ONSITE
Two Sundays per month from 10am to 5pm
October 2025 – 5th and 19th
November 2025 – 2nd, 16th and 30th
December 2025 – 14th
January 2026 – 11th and 25th
February 2026 – 8th and 22nd