Sports Massage Therapy

Applications Open: - Monday 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: - Thursday 20th August 2026.

General Sixth Form Entry Requirements: - Minimum 4 GCSE passes at Grade 4 and above to study BTEC or vocational courses; 5 GCSE passes at 4 and above to study A level/BTEC combination; 5 GCSE's at Grades 5 and above to study straight A Levels.

*Please note there may be subject specific entry requirements which also need to be met.

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices. Applications via email will not be accepted.

The Active IQ Level 3 Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy is a vocational qualification designed for learners who wish to pursue a career in sports massage therapy or progress within the health, fitness and sports industry.

The course develops learners’ knowledge of anatomy and physiology, health and fitness, soft tissue dysfunction and professional practice, alongside practical sports massage skills. Learners will gain both the theoretical understanding and hands-on experience required to work safely and effectively with clients.

Learners will study a range of mandatory units, including:

• Anatomy and physiology for sports massage - Understanding the structure and function of the human body systems and their relevance to sports massage.
• Principles of health and fitness - Exploring components of fitness, training principles and their application to physical activity and sport.
• Understanding soft tissue dysfunction - Learning about common physiological issues experienced by sports participants and how sports massage can support recovery and performance.
• Professional practice in sports massage - Developing knowledge of legislation, ethics, client care, record-keeping and professional conduct within sports massage therapy.
• Sports massage treatments - Studying the history and development of massage therapies and learning how to plan and deliver sports massage treatments safely and effectively.

Assessment is internally assessed and externally moderated and may include:

• Coursework assignments
• Written examinations
• A portfolio of evidence
• Practical demonstrations of sports massage techniques

All assessments are designed to reflect real-world practice and professional standards.

Grade 4 or above in GCSE English and Science, or

Successful completion of the qualification can lead to:

• Employment as a sports massage therapist (subject to insurance and professional registration)
• Further study in sports therapy, physiotherapy, sports science, health and fitness, or related degree programmes
• Progression into the wider sport, leisure, health or wellbeing sector