More than a diploma - here's how NTC helps you build a rewarding career in Pilates.
Learn the full repertoire of Joseph Pilates, from beginner to advanced level. Your training includes online access to professionally produced video demonstrations via the NTC Learning Portal - perfect for ongoing reference and practice.
Go beyond the basics. This course includes mat-based pilates from beginner to advanced level, small equipment integration, and adaptations for working with special populations.
Accredited at EQF Level 4 - the highest standard for Pilates teacher training in Europe. This ensures your qualification is recognised across EU member states and meets the industry's top professional benchmarks.
Real stories from students who turned their passion into a profession.
Hi there, I did my Pilates course with you last year and I would like to leave a testimonial for your page.The more experience I get teaching Pilates and finding out more information about it, the more I realize how great course you taught us.We all know that Pilates is a great form of exercise, but I have to add that your training centre and your teachers Noeleen, Janette, and Maeve are great tutors and I was very lucky to have learned with them.Thank you so much. I think you deliver the best Pilates course in Ireland.Well done - Rosane
I started the NTC Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork in October '22 having enjoyed Pilates for some years and wanted to progress my own knowledge and experience in Pilates.I began the course not really grasping how intensive the course was but really enjoyed it from Day 1 and have not regretted a minute of it (well maybe on mornings of exams but that was forgotten once exam was over). The structure of the course being in-house every second Saturday and then online Theory Lectures on a Thursday night are great. It gives the personal experience as well as the flexibility of online theory. The knowledge of all the tutors is immense, especially Janette and Noeleen who have so much experience and can pass it on in a way that encourages and educates in one. All the tutors (Noeleen, Janette, Kevin, Grainne and Sinead) are so helpful and approachable that it makes the learning so much easier. The course material is very thorough but is broken up well so you can find information very easily. And the online demos of all movements is really great and something I went back to many times - even when just doing my own practice.The course was so informative and fun that I now really want to use the qualification so am planning my teaching career over the next few weeks. The advanced areas such as Pregnancy and Special Populations is so good and brought it right through the course so it is shows its relavance to all areas of Pilates.The other students and the tutors made the course good fun - and everyone was so encouraging. I really enjoyed the course and would recommend doing this course to anyone with an interest in Pilates and wants to take their own interest/practice to another level.
I enrolled in the National Training Centre Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork in October 2022. The course is a five month course and I attended college every second Saturday with some on-line lectures on Thursday evenings. This course was really well run. The tutors were fabulous - extremely knowledgeable , responsive, accommodating and supportive.The course materials were really well put together in the form of a physical manual and an on-line portal. The portal is really user friendly and with videos and pdf's to help all types of learners.I met a wonderful group of people from all walks of life interested in supporting their health and others through Pilates.I have studied before with the National Training Centre, completing their fitness instructor and personal training course in 2018. It is a wonderful college with a variety of course offerings. All tutors are passionate about health and wellness and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment in the college. I would highly recommend the National Training Centre for the Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork or any of the other courses they offer.
I would like to extend a special thanks to the teachers of this course. I know that teaching Pilates is an ongoing learning process, but it's remarkable that, after half a year, I feel fully prepared to launch my own Pilates classes. This level of confidence is something I haven't experienced after completing any course before, despite working in this industry for nearly 12 years.The course content is exceptionally comprehensive, offering an ideal blend of in-person teaching, online lectures, and outstanding online and printed materials.Our teachers are not only excellent but also incredibly reliable, always ready to assist us with any topic. This course has provided me with a fresh perspective and mindset.Personally, as a non-native English speaker, it has significantly enriched my vocabulary and transformed my instructing style, making it more fluid and sophisticated. I find these improvements invaluable not only in Pilates but also in all the other fitness classes I currently teach. Thank you!
Just a short note to say a very big thank you to you (Noeleen), Janette, Orna and Maeve for all your help, encouragement and support over the last 6 months. When I started the course, I really wasn’t sure if I was going to get there! But with your combined teaching skills, knowledge and support I could feel myself getting there over time.The service you provide offers many people a way to change the direction of their lives and to be able to do that is truly remarkable. It was a really great experience and I will miss you and all the class. Best of luck to you all in your future endeavours!
(Have specific questions? You'll find answers in the FAQ section below. )
Pilates is a powerful low-impact discipline that builds strength, flexibility and control through precise movement and mindful breathing. Originally developed by Joseph Pilates, it centres on core stability, postural alignment and total-body awareness - making it ideal for improving physical performance and overall well-being.
The Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork qualifies you to teach in gyms, studios, fitness centres or on a self-employed basis - meeting the growing demand for skilled Pilates professionals. You'll graduate ready to lead safe, effective classes for both individuals and groups.
This internationally recognised qualification is accredited at EQF Level 4 - the highest Pilates teaching standard in Europe. It's accredited by REPs Ireland and aligned with Europe Active's professional fitness benchmarks, ensuring your training meets industry-leading standards.
Throughout the programme you will cover:
You'll leave this course with the tools, confidence, and credentials to build a meaningful career - and inspire lasting change through movement.
The Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork delivers a comprehensive foundation in both theory and practice - equipping you with the skills and confidence to become an outstanding Pilates instructor.
You’ll cover all key areas of anatomy and physiology relevant to safe and effective Pilates instruction, helping you understand how to support your clients’ movement, strength, and alignment.
The course teaches the full repertoire of Joseph Pilates - from beginner to advanced - and includes online access to professional video demonstrations via the NTC Learning Portal. You’ll gain the ability to teach clients how to develop strong, stable cores, reduce pain, and move more freely in everyday life.
You’ll also explore the principles of static and dynamic posture, essential for promoting healthy movement patterns.
Finally, through the Role of the Pilates Instructor module, you’ll be introduced to practical sales and marketing skills - so you’re not only ready to teach but also to build your own successful business or freelance career.
The Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork includes eight in-depth units designed to give you the knowledge, skills, and confidence to work as a qualified Pilates instructor. You’ll cover both foundational science and practical teaching techniques - with a strong emphasis on client safety, programme design, and adapting for individual needs.
This carefully designed syllabus ensures you receive a comprehensive, well-rounded education that goes far beyond basic instruction. Whether you’re new to teaching or building on existing experience, you’ll graduate fully prepared to deliver safe, effective, and engaging Pilates sessions - with the knowledge and confidence to work with a wide range of clients and needs.
The full fee for the Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork is €2,450.00. This includes all course materials, access to the online learning portal, and examination fees - with no hidden extras.
You can secure your place with a €750.00 deposit, with the remaining €1,700.00 balance due the Friday before your course begins.
Book early and pay in full (either in one payment or deposit + balance) at least one calendar month before the course starts, and you’ll receive a €250.00 discount - bringing your total fee to €2,200.00.
If you’ve already completed the National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training or the National Qualification in Neuromuscular Therapy, you’ll receive 10% off your Pilates course fees.
Whether you’re new to teaching or ready to build on your existing skills, the Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork is open to anyone with a passion for movement, anatomy, and helping others live healthier lives.
No previous qualifications are required - just curiosity, commitment, and a willingness to learn.
The course is delivered in English, so a good understanding of written and spoken English is essential. You’ll also need access to the internet and a suitable device to view support videos and submit course work via the NTC Learning Portal.
If you’re an NTC graduate who completed the National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies or the National Qualification in Neuromuscular Therapy within the last five years, you may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning for the anatomy and physiology module.
At NTC, we’re committed to helping you succeed - not just in passing the course, but in becoming a confident, capable Pilates instructor.
From day one, you’ll have full access to our online Learning Portal, packed with everything you need to stay on track: course documents, interactive quizzes to reinforce your learning, and a complete video library of the original Joseph Pilates repertoire - available anytime, anywhere.
Our team is here for you throughout the journey. Whether you need help with theory, technique, or just a little reassurance, our experienced tutors are only ever an email away and genuinely care about your progress.
You’ll be supported every step of the way - because your success is our success.
This course generally fills months in advance. Secure your spot now - spaces are limited!
SATURDAY COURSE
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JANUARY 25th 2025National Training Centre, Dublin 7
SATURDAY COURSE
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MAY 17th 2025National Training Centre, Dublin 7
SATURDAY COURSE
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SEPTEMBER 27th 2025National Training Centre, Dublin 7
Learn from the best. Our fully qualified tutors bring real-world industry experience and deep educational expertise to every class. You will be guided by passionate professionals committed to helping you succeed.
Eileen holds an Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork, and a Master’s degree in Workplace Health and Wellbeing. She delivers Pilates classes across a variety of settings, including community groups, corporate environments, and private one-to-one sessions.
With a background and a degree in business and extensive experience in sales and marketing, Eileen brings a unique perspective to the fitness industry. She recognises the importance of marketing knowledge for Pilates instructors, understanding that strong communication and promotional skills are essential for building successful client relationships and sustainable practices.
Eileen is deeply committed to promoting inclusive health and wellness. Her work is driven by a belief that everyone, regardless of age, gender, ability, or social background, should have access to the benefits of physical activity and a healthy lifestyle.
Nora’s background is in languages and a Master’s degree in Translation from Trinity College Dublin, Nora has spent over 17 years working in a variety of roles within the Localisation IT sector.
Throughout her career, she has consistently maintained a strong commitment to health, physical activity, and fitness. Nora has trained in Pilates for over 15 years across Mat, Reformer, and Studio disciplines. Her dedication led her to pursue a formal qualification, completing the Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork at the National Training Centre (NTC), where she became a certified instructor.
Since qualifying, Nora has been delivering Pilates classes in her local community to individuals of all ages and fitness levels under the banner Pilates with Nora. She is passionate about helping others stay active and strong, or reconnect with movement and fitness after a break.
In addition to her community work, Nora is a tutor on the Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork programme at NTC, where she supports and mentors the next generation of Pilates instructors.
Michelle is a dedicated and passionate professional in the world of fitness and dance. With a diverse background that spans ballet, fitness instruction, personal training, and Pilates, Michelle brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to every class and session.
As a ballet teacher, Michelle has a deep understanding of the art form and a commitment to helping students achieve their full potential. Her classes are known for their technical precision, artistic expression, and supportive environment.
Michelle’s commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle extends beyond the dance studio. She is a certified fitness instructor and personal trainer. She specialises in creating personalised workout plans that cater to the unique needs and goals of each client, enhancing overall fitness. Michelle is dedicated to helping clients achieve their best selves.
Furthermore, as a skilled Pilates instructor, Michelle has joined the team at NTC as a Pilates tutor. This role allows her to share her expertise and passion with a broader audience and to inspire and educate future instructors, contributing to the growth and development of the Pilates community.
Throughout her career, she has had the privilege of teaching neurodiverse clients as well as older learners. Her inclusive approach ensures that each individual receives the attention and support they need to thrive, regardless of their background or abilities.
Her career is driven by a dedication to lifelong learning and a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others through dance and fitness. With a blend of expertise in ballet, fitness training, and Pilates, she strives to empower individuals to reach their full potential and to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle.
Gráinne is a dedicated fitness professional who has been actively involved in the industry since the mid-90s when she trained with NTC and qualified as a fitness instructor and personal trainer. Although her career took a detour, her passion for exercise and fitness never waned. In 2014, she returned to NTC to renew her qualifications and, motivated by her desire to deepen her knowledge, subsequently completed the Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork.
Driven to excel in her field, Gráinne continued her education with BASI, a leading provider of Pilates teacher training, where she attended various workshops and pursued further education under the tutelage of world-renowned instructors such as Rael Isacowitz, Susan Church, Michael King, and Anula Maiberg. Gráinne’s commitment to education and continuous learning has enabled her to remain at the forefront of the fitness industry, keeping her skills and knowledge current and relevant.
In addition to her Pilates training, Gráinne is also a qualified yoga teacher, which has given her a well-rounded and holistic approach to fitness. Her passion for health and fitness led her to start her own business, Grá For Fitness, in 2016. Through her business, Gráinne offers public and corporate classes and works with individuals to help them achieve their health and fitness goals. Her approach is tailored to the individual needs of her clients, and her experience and knowledge enable her to provide customised and effective programs.
Furthermore, Gráinne has taken her passion for Pilates to the next level and is now an instructor on the Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork program at NTC. This role allows her to share her knowledge and expertise with future generations of fitness professionals and help to shape the next generation of the industry.
Overall, Gráinne’s commitment to lifelong learning and her passion for fitness and wellness have made her a respected and sought-after professional in the industry. Her dedication to helping others achieve their health and fitness goals is a testament to her expertise and experience, and she continues to inspire and educate others in her role as a Pilates instructor and fitness professional.
Kevin graduated from St. Mary’s University College with a Bachelor of Education degree and has spent the last 18 years working as a Primary School teacher.
In 2013, he embarked on a different path, pursuing his interest in Health & Fitness, by gaining a qualification in Sports Science and Conditioning from the Open University.
Having used Pilates in his own sporting endeavours to aid performance, Kevin furthered his Pilates knowledge and experience by qualifying from the NTC in 2016 with the Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork.
Since then, he has developed his passion of using Pilates for rehabilitation and performance by working with elite G.A.A. clubs as well as Inter County teams.
Kevin has also created a school specific digital well-being programme for the Primary and Post-Primary school sector; ‘Primary Pilates & Mindfulness’.
He is a tutor on the Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork in NTC.
Sinéad qualified from NTC in 2013 with the Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork and previously completed the National Qualification in Exercise, Health Studies and Personal Training.
Sinéad began working for herself in 2014. Through her business, SNC Pilates, she has been teaching group and private Pilates classes and corporate wellness sessions.
Since graduating from NTC, Sinéad has also received qualifications in Mat and Reformer Pilates and is a qualified Yoga instructor.
Val Keeley is the NTC’s Internal Quality Assurer (IQA).
Val has been involved in the fitness industry for three decades first as a club owner before developing her career as a tutor, assessor, IQA and an External Quality Assurer for leading awarding bodies.
She has been instrumental in developing course content and materials for fitness courses both in the UK, Reps India, Reps UAE, and Reps Ireland.
Val is passionate about quality assurance and supporting individuals and business in meeting external quality assurance and compliance expectations
The National Training Centre has been delivering respected education since 1985. Over the years, we've answered thousands of questions from future students - here are the ones were asked most often.
Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Contact us!
No prior qualifications needed! The Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork is a primary qualification, which means it’s designed for everyone – whether you’re completely new to the field or simply ready to start a new chapter. If you’ve got a passion for movement and helping others, you’re in the right place.
You’ll be fully qualified to teach mat-based Pilates classes to individuals or groups – in gyms, studios, wellness centres, or as a self-employed instructor.
If you already work in health or wellness, this qualification also empowers you to integrate Pilates principles into your existing practice, enhancing the support you offer to your clients.
Best of all, you’ll graduate with the confidence and skills to deliver safe, effective, and inspiring Pilates sessions that truly make a difference.
Absolutely! The Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork is fully accredited by REPs Ireland, ensuring it meets the highest European standards set by the European Health and Fitness Association (EHFA).
REPs Ireland operates independently to maintain quality and professionalism in the fitness industry – so when you qualify, you can be confident your certification is recognised, respected, and held to rigorous international standards.
All approved education providers (including NTC!) are independently audited every two years, meaning your training is always up to date and of the highest quality.
Yes – and that’s one of the many reasons students choose this course!
The Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork is accredited by REPs Ireland, which is part of the International Confederation of Registers for Exercise Professionals (ICREPs). This global partnership connects professional registers from around the world, giving your qualification international credibility and recognition.
So whether you plan to teach in Ireland or take your career abroad, your certification travels with you.
With the demand for Pilates continuing to grow, popular classes often book out weeks in advance – making this an exciting and rewarding career path.
Qualified instructors frequently earn €1,000+ per week, depending on how many classes they choose to teach and how many clients they work with.
One of the greatest benefits? Flexibility. You’re in control of your schedule, your class sizes, and your income. Whether you want a full-time career or a supplementary income stream, this qualification gives you the tools to thrive.
Absolutely. Pilates is in high demand, with gyms, fitness centres, wellness studios, and community hubs actively seeking qualified instructors. Its popularity continues to grow – not just among the general public, but also within elite sports, as many top-level teams now integrate Pilates into their regular conditioning plans.
Whether you’re teaching group classes, working 1-to-1, or partnering with a fitness facility, opportunities are plentiful. Many NTC graduates start part-time and quickly grow their client base – transitioning into full-time Pilates professionals.
Your success will be shaped by your energy and commitment – and with the Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork from NTC, you’ll have everything you need to thrive.
You can join the Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork at two excellent locations:
Both venues offer a professional, supportive learning environment to help you get the most from your training.
The Advanced Diploma in Pilates Matwork is designed to fit around your lifestyle. It runs over six months, combining flexible online learning with practical in-person training:
Can’t make a live online lecture? No problem – all online lessons are recorded and available to watch later. While you’ll still get the full content, attending live gives you the chance to ask questions in real time and interact with tutors and classmates.
Assessment is designed to support your learning and help you succeed. At the end of the course, you’ll complete a multiple-choice written exam and a practical teaching assessment, both focused on what you’ve learned and practised throughout the programme.
You’ll also complete a Learner Workbook during the course, which includes manageable, real-world tasks that reinforce your progress step by step.
With ongoing support and clear guidance from your tutors, everything is set up to help you feel confident and prepared.
Work experience is not a requirement of the course, but it’s something we’re happy to support if you’re interested.
Some students see work experience as a great way to explore the workplace and make industry connections, while others prefer to focus fully on their studies. The choice is entirely yours. We’re aware that some placements may involve routine or admin-style tasks that don’t reflect your full skill set, so it’s important to manage expectations.
If you’re keen to gain work experience, we’ll do our best to help connect you with gyms and facilities offering placements. Just get in touch with our support team once your course begins, and we’ll guide you through what’s possible.
Between 80% and 90% of students successfully complete all final assessments on their first attempt. Most others will need to repeat just one exam, and only a small number need to repeat more than one.
Success on this course is very achievable for anyone who attends tutorials regularly and puts in consistent effort. You don’t need to have a background in Pilates or science to do well – just a willingness to learn and stay engaged throughout.
If you’re committed to your studies, we’ll be here to support you every step of the way.
This course must be paid in full before the start date, and an instalment plan isn’t available at this time. However, you can secure your place with a deposit, which gives you extra time to prepare and plan the balance payment.
This structure helps us keep class sizes small and ensure every student receives the highest standard of education and support.
Yes. Students of the National Training Centre often receive partial funding through the Department of Social Protection’s Technical Employment Support Grant (TESG).
To explore this option, you will need to contact your Intreo office or Local Employment Services (LES) facilitator to confirm your eligibility.
If you already hold a recognised fitness instructor qualification accepted by REPs Ireland you may be eligible for up to 25% funding through the Leisure Health Fitness Skillnet. For more information contact Leisure Health Fitness Skillnet.
If you need assistance, feel free to contact the NTC office at 01 882 7777.
Yes. If you plan to work with clients after qualifying, NTC requires that you hold professional indemnity insurance. This protects you if a client takes legal action due to an injury they believe was caused by your professional advice. If you’re working from a private premises, you may also need public liability insurance unless it’s already covered by the venue.
To make this easy, NTC has arranged a discounted insurance scheme with Balens Ltd. It’s available exclusively to our graduates and includes broad cover such as:
Professional indemnity and public liability
Legal expenses
Loss of reputation or documents
Intellectual property breaches
First aid and Good Samaritan Acts
The policy covers up to €4 million per claim in Ireland, with unlimited claims and legal defence costs. It also includes retroactive cover and run-off cover (if you stop practicing) at no extra charge.
You’re also covered for working abroad (excluding the USA/Canada unless requested) with no time limit, as long as you’re based in the UK or Ireland.
For more details or to apply, contact Balens at 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
ON SITE LESSONS
Saturdays from 9am to 5pm
January 2025 – 25th
February 2025 – 8th, 22nd
March 2025 – 8th, 22nd
April 2025 – 5th, 26th
May 2025 – 10th, 24th
June 2025 – 7th
June 2024 – 21st (Summative Assessment)
ONLINE LESSONS
Thursday Evenings from 7pm to 9pm
January 2025 – 30th
February 2025 – 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th
March 2025 – 6th, 13th, 20th
April 2025 – 24th
May 2025 – 1st, 22nd
ON SITE LESSONS
Saturdays from 9am to 5pm
May 2025 – 17th, 31st
June 2025 – 14th, 28th
July 2025 – 12th, 26th
August 2025 – 9th, 23rd
September 2025 – 6th, 20th
October 2025 – 4th (Summative Assessment)
ONLINE LESSONS
Thursday Evenings from 7pm to 9pm
May 2025 – 22nd, 29th
June 2025 – 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th
July 2025 – 3rd, 10th
August 2025 – 7th, 14th
September 2025 – 11th
ON SITE LESSONS
Saturdays from 9am to 5pm
September 2025 – 27th
October 2025 – 11th, 25th
November 2025 – 8th, 22nd
December 2025 – 6th
January 2026 – 3rd, 17th, 31st
February 2026 – 14th, 28th (Summative Assessment)
ONLINE LESSONS
Thursday Evenings from 7pm to 9pm
These online lessons are delivered live with recordings available in the NTC Learning Portal afterwards if you can't attend live
October 2025 – 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd
November 2025 – 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th
January 2026 – 8th, 15th, 29th
ON SITE LESSONS
Saturdays from 9am to 5pm
September 2025 – 6th, 20th
October 2025 – 11th, 25th
November 2025 – 8th, 29th
December 2025 – 13th
January 2026 – 10th, 24th
February 2026 – 7th, 21st (Summative Assessment)
ONLINE LESSONS
Thursday Evenings from 7pm to 9pm
September 2025 – 11th, 18th, 25th
October 2025 – 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd
November 2025 – 6th, 27th
December 2025 – 4th
January 2026 – 29th