VTCT qualifications in Plymouth

Ofqual-regulated VTCT qualifications in facials, massage, aromatherapy, reflexology and complementary therapies, with all practical training in Estover, Plymouth.

About our courses: Plymouth Holistic Training is a satellite centre of Holistic Therapies Training Academy Ltd (HTTA). The courses are written by HTTA and you study the theory online through their student portal, with all your practical training with us in our training rooms at Plymouth Wellbeing Centre, Lynher House, Estover, Plymouth. When you are ready to book, the Book buttons take you to the HTTA website.

Whether you are starting a new career, adding therapies to your treatment menu or taking your skills to an advanced level, there is a qualification here for you. All of them run on rolling start dates, so you can begin when it suits you. Groups are small (6 to 8 students at most), friendly and inclusive, and payment plans are available on every course.

Looking for a VTCT course near you? Our training rooms are at Plymouth Wellbeing Centre, Lynher House, Estover, Plymouth, near Derriford, and we welcome students from across Devon and Cornwall, including Saltash, Ivybridge and Tavistock.

Got a question? Send us a WhatsApp message or voice note, or drop us an email.

Our VTCT qualifications at a glance

Scroll down for full details on each qualification, or tap one in the table to jump straight to it. 👇

QualificationPriceStart datesDetails
VTCT Level 2 Award in Facials£997Rolling start datesAbout Level 2 Facials
VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Massage£1,395Rolling start datesAbout Level 3 Massage
VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Aromatherapy£1,395Rolling start datesAbout Level 3 Aromatherapy
VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Reflexology£1,395Rolling start datesAbout Level 3 Reflexology
VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Complementary Therapies£2,495Rolling start datesAbout Level 3 Complementary Therapies
VTCT Level 4 Diploma in Reflexology£1,997Rolling start datesAbout Level 4 Reflexology
VTCT Level 4 Diploma in Complementary Therapies£2,495Rolling start datesAbout Level 4 Complementary Therapies

VTCT Level 2 Award in Facials

A smiling beauty therapist in a black tunic, ready to start her career in facials and skincare

A VTCT Level 2 qualification in facial massage and skincare, open to complete beginners. A great first step into beauty and skincare, or a way to add facials to your massage or holistic work.

  • Who can join: anyone. No experience or previous qualifications needed.
  • How it runs: 5 practical days in Plymouth for training, assessments and exams, plus online learning.
  • Price and dates: £997, rolling start dates, payment plans available.

Full details, including what you will learn and how you are assessed, are on our facial and skincare courses page.

VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Massage

Two massage students in black uniforms practising leg massage on clients during a practical training day in Plymouth

A VTCT Level 3 qualification covering full-body Swedish massage and seated back massage.

  • Who can join: anyone. No experience needed.
  • How it runs: 7 practical days in Plymouth for training, assessments and exams, plus online learning, with video calls for coursework support whenever you need them.
  • Extra support: monthly Boost Days and Boost Evenings in Plymouth for help with your coursework and practical skills, and you are welcome to come back and revisit practical training free of charge for the whole of your course.
  • What you will learn: full-body Swedish massage and seated back massage, client consultation and care, anatomy, physiology and pathology, health, safety and hygiene, treatment planning and aftercare, and how to run a therapy business.
  • How you are assessed: practical assessments, written exams, assignments and case studies (at least 30 recorded treatments).
  • You will need: a treatment couch or chair and a massage medium for your case studies.
  • Price and dates: £1,395, rolling start dates, payment plans available.

VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Aromatherapy

A student stirring an aromatherapy blend in a glass jar during a training day in Plymouth

A VTCT Level 3 qualification for massage therapists who want to add the power of essential oils to their treatments.

  • Who can join: you need a massage qualification.
  • How it runs: 7 practical days in Plymouth for training, assessments and exams, plus online learning, with video calls for coursework support whenever you need them.
  • Extra support: monthly Boost Days and Boost Evenings in Plymouth for help with your coursework and practical skills, and you are welcome to come back and revisit practical training free of charge for the whole of your course.
  • What you will learn: profiles and safety information for 42 essential oils and 19 carrier oils, blending and dilution, full-body aromatherapy massage, essential oil chemistry, contraindications, consultation and treatment planning, anatomy, physiology and pathology, and how to run a therapy business.
  • How you are assessed: practical assessments, written exams, assignments and case studies (at least 60 recorded treatments).
  • You will need: a treatment couch and an aromatherapy kit for your case studies.
  • Price and dates: £1,395, rolling start dates, payment plans available.

VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Reflexology

A reflexologist's thumbs pressing reflex points on the sole of a client's foot

A VTCT Level 3 qualification in reflexology, open to complete beginners.

  • Who can join: anyone. No experience needed.
  • How it runs: 8 days in Plymouth (3 practical training days, 3 practical assessment days and 2 exam days), plus online learning.
  • Price and dates: £1,395, rolling start dates, payment plans available.

Full details, including what you will learn and how you are assessed, are on our reflexology courses page.

VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Complementary Therapies

Four smiling qualified therapists in black tunics standing behind a treatment couch in a bright therapy training room
AI-generated image

Three therapies in one qualification: body massage, aromatherapy and reflexology. A great choice if you want to offer clients a range of treatments from day one.

  • Who can join: anyone. No experience needed.
  • How it runs: 12 practical days in Plymouth for training, assessments and exams, plus online learning, with video calls for coursework support whenever you need them.
  • Extra support: monthly Boost Days and Boost Evenings in Plymouth for help with your coursework and practical skills, and you are welcome to come back and revisit practical training free of charge for the whole of your course.
  • What you will learn: Swedish body massage, aromatherapy (essential oils, blending and aromatherapy massage), foot and hand reflexology, anatomy, physiology and pathology, consultation skills and how to run a therapy business.
  • How you are assessed: practical assessments, written exams, assignments and case studies (at least 30 body massage, 60 aromatherapy and 100 reflexology treatments).
  • You will need: a treatment couch or chair, a massage medium and an aromatherapy kit for your case studies.
  • Price and dates: £2,495, rolling start dates, payment plans available.

VTCT Level 4 Diploma in Reflexology

A smiling reflexologist in a black tunic working on a client's foot in a bright treatment room
AI-generated image

The advanced qualification for Level 3 reflexologists who want to work with more complex clients and specialist techniques.

  • Who can join: reflexologists with a Level 3 reflexology qualification and Level 3 anatomy and physiology.
  • How it runs: 8 practical days in Plymouth for training, assessments and exams, plus online learning.
  • Price and dates: £1,997, rolling start dates, payment plans available.

Full details, including what you will learn and how you are assessed, are on our reflexology courses page.

VTCT Level 4 Diploma in Complementary Therapies

A therapist in a black tunic gently checking a client's posture, with one hand on her shoulder and one at her head, in a bright treatment room
AI-generated image

The advanced qualification for therapists who are already qualified in massage, aromatherapy and reflexology and want to take all three to the next level.

  • Who can join: therapists with Level 3 qualifications in massage, aromatherapy and reflexology, plus Level 3 anatomy and physiology.
  • How it runs: 12 practical days in Plymouth for training, assessments and exams, plus online learning, with video calls for coursework support whenever you need them.
  • Extra support: monthly Boost Days and Boost Evenings in Plymouth for help with your coursework and practical skills, and you are welcome to come back and revisit practical training free of charge for the whole of your course.
  • What you will learn: advanced massage, advanced and clinical aromatherapy including prescriptive blending, advanced reflexology including supporting conception, maternity, palliative care and emotions, and foot reading, plus advanced consultation, complementary therapies in palliative care, and interpersonal skills.
  • How you are assessed: case studies (at least 30 advanced massage, 30 advanced aromatherapy and 36 reflexology treatments), practical assessments and exams.
  • You will need: a treatment couch or chair, a massage medium and an aromatherapy kit for your case studies.
  • Price and dates: £2,495, rolling start dates, payment plans available.

Good to know

  • VTCT qualifications are Ofqual-regulated VRQs, recognised by employers, insurers and professional associations across the UK.
  • All practical training takes place in our training room in Estover, Plymouth, a few minutes from Derriford, with free parking outside.
  • You study the theory online at your own pace through the HTTA student portal.
  • Please check with your insurer before you enrol. Student insurance is recommended while you practise and do your case studies.
  • Payment plans are available on every qualification.

VTCT qualification questions

Do I need experience to start a VTCT qualification?

Not for most of them. Level 2 Facials and the Level 3 Diplomas in Massage, Reflexology and Complementary Therapies are open to complete beginners. Level 3 Aromatherapy needs a massage qualification, and the Level 4 Diplomas are for therapists who already hold the matching Level 3 qualifications.

What is the difference between a VTCT qualification and an accredited short course?

They are two different routes. A VTCT qualification is regulated by Ofqual and covers a therapy in depth over several months, with practical assessments and exams. Our accredited courses are accredited by professional bodies such as IPHM, ABT and the CMA, and run over 1 or 2 practical days plus case studies. Which suits you depends on what you want to do, so get in touch and we will talk it through.

How long does a VTCT qualification take?

It depends on the qualification and on you. Start dates are rolling, the theory is online at your own pace, and the practical days in Plymouth range from 5 days for Level 2 Facials to 12 days for the Complementary Therapies Diplomas.

How much do VTCT qualifications cost in Plymouth?

Our VTCT qualifications range from £997 for the Level 2 Award in Facials to £2,495 for the Level 3 and Level 4 Diplomas in Complementary Therapies. Payment plans are available on all of them.

Where is the training?

All practical training takes place at Lynher House, Bush Park, Estover, Plymouth PL6 7RG, a few minutes from Derriford, with free parking outside.

What our students say

Olivia
Olivia
16:21 11 Jun 26
I love training at this venue, I always learn so much, Karen is an excellent teacher, I am happy to have found such a lovely place to train.
Olivia De Rolland
Olivia De Rolland
16:19 11 Jun 26
Karen is a natural teacher, she is down-to-earth, approachable, and very supportive. Clean, relaxed, and well-equipped space to learn. A wonderful environment to learn new skills in, I can't recommend enough.
recommends
I’ve attended two courses at Plymouth holistic training Karen is so warm and welcoming.
Karen has a wealth of knowledge looking forward to my next course thank you so much xx
Mel Eggleton
Mel Eggleton
18:34 25 Sep 25
I had a fantastic day of training with Karen It was fun and informative, with lots of hands on experience to cement skills. I highly recommend her courses.
recommends
Karen is amazing and extremely knowledgeable. Her treatment room is very relaxing and welcoming for clients and students. I thoroughly enjoyed doing my dermaplaning course with Karen- she is absolutely great! Highly recommend 🤩
Ozzydogz 1
Ozzydogz 1
19:40 31 Jul 25
I completed a dermaplaning course with Karen and was not disappointed! She is very approachable and great fun- her knowledge is fantastic and she has always been there to give post support if I had any questions after the course. The learning space was calming and welcoming and I felt very confident and at ease during and throughout the course. Thank you Karen
Kerrie
Kerrie
19:29 31 Jul 25
3 years ago i completed an Indian head training course. This opened my eyes to holistic therapy, Karen supported me throughout further training. Each course is suitable for all learning needs, Karen was always available to help and answer any questions. 7 courses later, I’m now self employed as a mobile holistic therapist.
If your looking to up skill or learn something new, Plymouth Holistic Training is the place to go. Highly recommended ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Astra Bassett
Astra Bassett
18:41 31 Jul 25
I have attended 4 course so far with Karen through Plymouth Holistic training and got even more to look forward to. Felt so comfortable while training and Karen put my nerves to rest, really enjoyed the courses and learnt alot. Would definitely recommend!!
Nkita Bradbury
Nkita Bradbury
14:47 31 Jul 25
recommends
I highly recommend Plymouth Holistic Training. I have done various courses with them including Reflexology and aromatherapy massage. These great courses have allowed me to build my business and Karen is really informative and helpful 👍
Anna Easton
Anna Easton
08:12 21 Jul 25
I'm studying the Complementary Therapies level 3 with Plymouth Holistic Training . I'm really grateful to have have found Karen and this course. She creates a welcoming inclusive learning environment. We have engaging, fun discussions in lessons, and she makes it clear that there are no stupid questions. Karen really cares, and teaches with professionalism, and humour.
The course material is well set out, accessible, and comprehensive.
Exams and assessments are as unstressful as possible.
Five stars from me, and a great big thank you!
Lulu Milne
Lulu Milne
14:01 03 Jul 25
I have attended two courses at Plymouth Holistic Training and have thoroughly enjoyed both of them. Karen Trim teaches in a way which empowers and gives confidence. I am mature to return to the classroom so was a bit nervous – but now, I plan to book more courses and have set up my own small biz 🥰
Rachel Marshall
Rachel Marshall
20:47 02 Jul 25
I have just finished a VCTC aromatherapy course and have loved every second! The course is given in a fabulous 'real' learning experience with people coming in to practice on. It has been the best learning experience I have ever had, the support the absolute best too. I have gained so much confidence throughout. I've met students from other courses that I will stay in touch with, too. I've enjoyed the whole experience so much that I am going on to level 4 in complementary therapies.
I can not recommend this course highly enough.
They are always available to answer any questions, and I had amazing help when I was struggling to revise my anatomy, physiology, and pathology. I learnt new techniques that gave me a real belief in myself.
I have changed as a person through their training. This is a really special place to be a part of!
Jennifer Tremayne
Jennifer Tremayne
20:11 02 Jul 25
I have attended a few courses now with Plymouth Holistic Training, and each time Karen has delivered training in such an inspiring way that she makes you feel at ease from the moment you enter the room.
She is extremely knowledgable, friendly and down to earth.
Her 'hands on approach' to training makes it so easy to learn and her willingness to always help and support you (even after the course) is something I have valued very much.

Karen is clearly a natural when it comes to teaching and makes the lessons enjoyable and informative but at the same time in a relaxed environment where you feel totally at ease asking as many questions as necessary without feeling awkward.

Definitely recommend Karen for all holistic courses.
Jennifer Tremayne
Jennifer Tremayne
20:08 02 Jul 25
recommends
I have attended a few courses now with Plymouth Holistic Training, and each time Karen has delivered training in such an inspiring way that she makes you feel at ease from the moment you enter the room.
She is extremely knowledgable, friendly and down to earth.
Her 'hands on approach' to training makes it so easy to learn and her willingness to always help and support you (even after the course) is something I have valued very much.

Karen is clearly a natural when it comes to teaching and makes the lessons enjoyable and informative but at the same time in a relaxed environment where you feel totally at ease asking as many questions as necessary without feeling awkward.

Definitely recommend Karen for all holistic courses.
Lily Beth
Lily Beth
08:43 28 Jun 24
recommends
This was the first time I have had the pleasure of studying at Plymouth Holistic Training, and it was a joy. Karen was so supportive and always at the end of the phone for any questions. I’ll be back for sure, watch this space ! 👌🏼
Thanks again Karen! X
Dawn Waterfield
Dawn Waterfield
09:51 15 Jan 20
recommends
I attended an introduction to Aromatherapy course. I can safely say we all enjoyed the session, mentored by the wonderful Karen Trim; and all came away with bespoke products, made by our own fair hands. Am looking forward to another course
Rita Hessey
Rita Hessey
02:28 09 Jan 20
recommends
Karen is fantastic a lovely lady and a great therapist
js_loader

Questions? Get in touch

WhatsApp is the easiest way to reach us: send a message or a voice note and we will get back to you. You can also email us at training@wellbeingplymouth.co.uk. We are usually with students and hard to get hold of by phone, so if you would like a chat, drop us a message to book a call.

Looking for shorter courses too? See all our holistic therapy courses in Plymouth.