Thank you to John, the staff, and tutors for your support during the Personal Trainer course. Your structured approach made balancing study and life much easier.
In 2018, the National Qualification in Neuromuscular Therapy course became an accredited programme of education by the SMA, The Association for Soft Tissue Therapists, at UK Level 5 which maps to between Levels 6 and 7 on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications.
Maybe you're happy with the qualification you received from NTC before 2018 and you can certainly continue to operate on that basis. So what are the main reasons why you would want to upgrade?
In complementary therapies, as with all education, standards change as research provides new information. By upgrading your qualification you will also be ugrading to the lastest standards giving you new skills for you practice.
NTC obtained significant accreditation through the Sports Massage Association (SMA) UK in 2018 which means that our Neuromuscular Therapy qualification is now recognised by the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council.
As with other countries around the world, Complementray Therapies in Ireland continue to move towards regulation. When regulation arrives there will be a minimum standard required for registration so ensure you're up to date.
Some of the many unsolicited testimonials we have received from graduates of the NTC's courses
(Remember there's even more info in the FAQ section below)
Why are there Neuromuscular Therapy Upgrade course options? In 2018, the National Qualification in Neuromuscular Therapy course received accreditation as an educational program by the SMA, The Association for Soft Tissue Therapists, at UK Level 5. This accreditation mapped to between Levels 6 and 7 on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications. The accreditation process was rigorous and involved a verification process by the SMA. The SMA cross-referenced the learning outcomes of the NTC Neuromuscular Therapy Course, both knowledge and understanding and performance criteria, to the National Occupational Standards CNH27 developed by Skills for Health. This process ensured that the course met national standards for quality and performance, and that the assessment process was fair and standardised. Additionally, the teaching staff involved in the course were appropriately audited to ensure competency and qualification to teach.
The National Qualification in Neuromuscular Therapy course is now fully recognised by the CNHC (Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council) in the UK. The CNHC is an independent register of complementary healthcare practitioners set up by the UK government to protect the public. The council provides an independent UK register of complementary healthcare practitioners, setting the standards that practitioners need to meet to get onto and then stay on the register. All CNHC registrants have agreed to be bound by the highest standards of conduct and have registered voluntarily. Additionally, all of them are professionally trained and fully insured to practice.
Since there is no similar professional standard for complementary therapy in Ireland, the NTC has chosen to adopt the UK professional standards until such time as a national register for complementary therapies is established, and professional standards have been agreed upon in the country.
The CNHC is also the holder of an Accredited Register by the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care, an independent body that is accountable to the UK Parliament. As the NTC meets all the verification process requirements, graduates of the National Qualification in Neuromuscular Therapy will be accepted onto the Massage Therapy Register approved by the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care. This means that NTC graduates will be able to practice massage therapy in the UK and adhere to the highest standards of conduct and professionalism in the field.
The neuromuscular therapy upgrade options are only available to individuals who have previously completed the National Qualification in Neuromuscular Therapy course with the National Training Centre and are graduates of this course before 2018. These individuals are eligible to take advantage of these exclusive neuromuscular therapy upgrade options to further their knowledge and skills in neuromuscular therapy.
However, it is important to note that these upgrade options are not available to students or therapists who have completed any other bodywork therapy course. These exclusive upgrade options are specifically designed to provide advanced training and knowledge to those who have already completed the National Qualification in Neuromuscular Therapy course with the National Training Centre before 2018. As such, they are not available to individuals who have not completed this course, regardless of their qualifications or experience in other areas of bodywork therapy.
It is important to note that this upgrade is entirely optional. NTC graduates who do not wish to upgrade their qualification are not required to do so. Their original qualification remains valid, and they are still fully qualified to offer treatment to the public. The upgrade options are only intended for those who wish to advance their knowledge and skills in neuromuscular therapy and achieve a higher level of accreditation.
Therapists who completed their NTC qualification before 2018 now have an excellent opportunity to upgrade their skills and advance their status with the neuromuscular therapy upgrade options. The upgrade options are designed to provide qualifying therapists with access to the recently updated SMA Level 5 accredited certification.
By taking advantage of the neuromuscular therapy upgrade, therapists can enhance their knowledge and skills in the field of neuromuscular therapy. This upgrade option is ideal for those who are interested in upgrading their status and obtaining a more advanced level of accreditation.
If you’re a therapist who completed your NTC qualification before 2018, the neuromuscular therapy upgrade is for you.
Don’t miss out on the chance to upgrade your skills and enhance your status as a therapist.
There are three neuromuscular therapy upgrade options available for NTC graduates who completed their qualification before 2018 to upgrade their neuromuscular therapy skills and achieve the newly updated SMA Level 5 accredited qualification.
Option 1 is for graduates who have been actively working in clinical practice and wish to submit a Clinical Practice Portfolio of Case Studies and Learner Workbook. This option requires individuals to provide documented evidence of clinical experience and up-to-date knowledge and skills. Evidence of current clinical practice and insurance must be provided, and therapists will have access to the NTC Programme Manual, the NTC Learning Portal, and the necessary documentation required to complete their portfolios.
Students must complete and submit a portfolio of clinical practice with evidence of 100 treatment hours, including 25 hours of case studies on 5 patients x 5 treatments, and the NMT Learner Workbook. They must also submit evidence of established clinical practice and insurance to practice for the previous 3 years from the time of application, along with details of their Continuing Professional Development (CPD) since their original date of qualification. Applications for this option will be assessed on an individual basis. The cost for this option is €295.00.
Option 2 is for graduates who may not have been practicing regularly in the last 2-3 years and need to refresh their knowledge and update their practical skills and competencies. This option includes access to recorded and/or live online lectures and practical workshops that will refresh therapists’ knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and clinical applications of Neuromuscular Therapy, including subjective and objective assessment, injury scenarios, and differential diagnosis.
Students must attend the onsite practical workshops (minimum 6 days), complete and submit a portfolio of clinical practice with evidence of 100 treatment hours, including 25 hours of case studies on 5 patients x 5 treatments, and the NMT Learner Workbook. They must also successfully complete the Observed Summative Practical Examination. Applications for this option will be assessed on an individual basis, and attendance on practical workshops is subject to availability. Additional practical days may be required depending on individual needs, and additional charges may apply. The cost for this option is €1,295.00.
Option 3 is available to individuals who completed the Sports Massage and NMT courses pre 2011 and/or may not have worked in practice for several years. This option allows individuals to complete the full course at the reviewer’s discounted rate, subject to availability. The cost for this option is between €2,100.00 and €2,400.00 depending on the payment option you choose.
Only fully qualified tutors deliver the Neuromuscular Therapy Upgrade course with each having extensive expertise in their individual field.
Conor is a qualified Neuromuscular Therapist and operates a successful clinical practice. Conor works with a diverse range of chronic pain clients on a one-to-one basis in addition to providing professional services to a number of local sporting teams. Conor is also a qualified Personal Trainer and has worked in the fitness and leisure industry for over 10 years. His knowledge of bodywork and movement therapy ensures he has the skillset to help his clients move better and provide effective treatment protocols to improve their quality of living.
Conor has qualifications in Myofascial Trigger Point Dry Needling, Myofascial Cupping, Sports Taping and Strapping and is currently completing the Higher Diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy at the NTC where he continues to learn from recognised experts in fascia science.
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.
Kevin is a highly experienced Neuromuscular Therapist (NMT) and a proud member of the Association of Neuromuscular and Massage Therapists (ANMT). His years of study and practical experience have given him a deep understanding of the integration of NMT within the wider health, fitness, and athletic performance fields. Kevin has worked with many high-profile clients and organisations, including Monaghan United F.C. and Monaghan and Cavan GAA, where he offered sports first aid, pain and injury prevention strategies, and event massage.
With a passion for helping others and a background in emergency first aid, Kevin opened Back in Action, a pain and injury clinic in 2005. Since then, he has become a key member of the National Training Centre’s educational committee, contributing to the development and delivery of the Higher Diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy (HDipNMT). As the course leader, he has played an instrumental role in creating a comprehensive curriculum and implementing new teaching methods to improve the learning experience for students.
Kevin is currently pursuing his MSc in Neuromuscular Therapy, and he has completed fresh frozen cadaver dissections in the Department of Anatomy at Kings College London. As part of an international team of lecturers, he has also helped to bring advanced qualifications in NMT to groups of physiotherapists, osteopaths, and other healthcare providers in Warsaw, Poland, and Kings College London.
In addition to his work in NMT, Kevin also holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications in Creative Multimedia. He has leveraged his expertise to implement a streaming video resource for HDipNMT students, which is currently being expanded to include a range of courses offered by the National Training Centre. These videos feature world-renowned authorities and were filmed during actual classes and in a specialised studio at the National Training Centre. Thanks to Kevin’s efforts, students now have access to a wealth of knowledge and insights from experts in the field, helping them to develop their skills and achieve their goals.
Rebecca is a chartered physiotherapist and neuromuscular therapist, involved in the health and leisure industry since 2009. She started out as a lifeguard, swimming instructor, personal trainer, and fitness instructor in her local leisure centre. Her dedication to sports and fitness led her to hold a place on the Irish Elite Boxing Squad. Rebecca managed a gym and spa onboard Disney Cruiseline, travelling international waters across various continents.
She completed the higher diploma in neuromuscular therapy at the NTC in 2014 and obtained her teaching qualification from Maynooth University in 2016, before continuing on to a physiotherapy BSc (Hons) in the University of Limerick. Rebecca ran a successful private clinic for 10 years in Co. Kildare, including pitch-side work with many sports teams and is the main sponsor of her local GAA club’s senior team. She has a passion for anatomy and completed several human anatomy dissection courses/internships in Kings’ College London, University of Dundee, University of Edinburgh, and von Hagens’ Plastination. She has worked with world-renowned anatomists and surgeons such as Dr. Vladimir Chereminskiy, Dr. Gunther von Hagens, Prof. Richard Tunstall, Dr. Jean Claude Guimberteau, Dr. Antonio Stecco, Dr. Niall Galloway, Dr. Abduelmenem Alashkham, Dr. Jaap van der Wal and John Sharkey.
Rebecca is currently undertaking a PhD in anatomy and is working as the personal assistant and physiotherapist of Dr. Gunther von Hagens in Guben, Germany.
Cristopher’s journey to becoming a Physiotherapist began in the Philippines, where he pursued his undergraduate degree. After completing his studies, he began working at a rehabilitation center, where he gained valuable experience working with patients with a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. His passion for helping people heal and achieve optimal physical function led him to pursue further education.
Over the years, Christopher has become an expert in his field, and his area of speciality in myofascial triggerpoint dry needling has become a sought-after technique by many. This is a technique that involves the insertion of thin needles into trigger points within the body’s muscles to alleviate pain and promote healing. With years of experience and a deep understanding of the human body, Christopher is skilled at identifying trigger points within the muscles and applying the appropriate techniques to promote healing.
As a teacher, Christopher has been involved in several NTC bodywork educational programs, sharing his expertise and knowledge with students. His unique approach to teaching has helped to shape the way course content is taught, and his students benefit from his practical approach to learning. He is passionate about teaching and empowering students to help their patients achieve optimal health and wellness.
In addition to his teaching work, Christopher also runs a private practice where he provides treatment for a variety of conditions, including chronic pain, sports injuries, and post-surgical rehabilitation. He takes a holistic approach to treatment, considering the whole person and tailoring his approach to meet the individual needs of his patients.
Christopher’s dedication to his work and his passion for helping people heal has made him a highly respected member of the healthcare community. Through his expertise in myofascial triggerpoint dry needling and his commitment to teaching, he has made a significant contribution to the field, and he continues to inspire and help others every day.
Sabine Graef is an accomplished professional in the field of neuromuscular therapy and sports science. She completed her education at NTC and earned the Higher Diploma in Neuromuscular Therapy, which has helped her in building a successful career in pain management and injury rehabilitation. Sabine is also the owner of a Neuromuscular and Sports Therapy Clinic where she provides her clients with personalised treatments that cater to their specific needs.
In addition, Sabine holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Science and Physical Education. She has worked as a professional coach in various sports, ranging from grassroots level to professional sports performance, for several years. Her expertise lies in physical coaching for sports-specific strength and movement, which helps athletes achieve their optimal potential. She has worked with a diverse range of clients, including athletes at all levels, sports teams, and fitness enthusiasts.
Sabine is a strong believer in the value of continuous education, and since moving to Ireland in 1995, she has continually pursued professional education in various disciplines. This has allowed her to stay up to date with the latest advancements in her field and incorporate new techniques and practices into her treatments.
In her work, Sabine is passionate about promoting the important role and function of fascia, bio-tensegrity, and movement in medical and clinical applications, as well as their integral role in our overall health and wellbeing. She firmly believes that by improving our understanding and application of these concepts, we can optimise the effectiveness of various treatments and improve our quality of life.
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.
Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Contact us!
Yes. The upgrade options are only available to individuals who have previously completed the National Qualification in Neuromuscular Therapy course with the National Training Centre and are graduates of this course before 2018.
Yes. This course is unique in Ireland as it has full accreditation from the SMA, The Association for Soft Tissue Therapists, at UK Level 5.
The SMA have verified the NTC National Qualification in Neuromuscular Therapy, 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 Sports Massage Therapy.
The verification process involved cross-refencing the learning outcomes of the NTC Neuromuscular Therapy 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.
Yes. Neuromuscular Therapists are free to offer their services in many countries worldwide. If you have a specific country in mind you should ensure that you check with the relevant authority in that country before embarking an any programme of education.
In some US states therapists are required to sit and pass a state licencing examination before being allowed to practice.
Regardless of which upgrade option you choose you will need to submit a portfolio of clinical practice with evidence of 100 treatment hours, including 25 hours of case studies on 5 patients x 5 treatments, and the NMT Learner Workbook. Those opting for Options 2 and 3 will also need to devote additional time to study to prepare for assessment.
Cost depends on the option you choose.
There are installment options available for Option 3. Those selecting Options 1 or 2 will need to pay the relevant fee in advance.
Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Contact us!
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
October 2024 – 12th♦, 19th, 26th
November 2024 – 2nd, 9th, 23rd, 30th
December 2024 – 7th, 14th
January 2025 – 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th♦
February 2025 – 1st, 8th♦, 15th, 22nd
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)
October 2024 – 15th, 17th, 22nd, 29th, 31st
November 2024 – 5th, 7th, 12th, 14th, 19th, 21st, 26th, 28th
December 2024 – 3rd, 5th, 10th, 12th
January 2025 – 7th, 9th, 14th, 16th, 21st, 23rd, 28th, 30th
PROVISIONAL PRACTICAL EXAMINATION DATES
February 2025 – 23rd March 2025 – 1st, 2nd
(Individual and group times will be issued by the NTC examination’s office)
OPTIONAL FREE COURSE
National Qualification in Kettlebell Training
January 19th, 2025 – Sunday from 10:00-17:00