Beauty Therapy | VTCT Diploma in Complementary Therapies | Level 3
Why this course?

Complementary therapies is a hands-on course which includes practices such as aromatherapy, reflexology and body massage. On the course, you will develop your skills, confidence and most importantly, the experience to progress onto employment or to further your skills.
This programme is designed to prepare you for a career as a complementary therapist in a self-employed capacity, or employed in spas, holiday resorts, cruise ships, clinics or hospices. You'll gain a qualification that’s recognised by the UK’s largest complementary trade body/professional associations.
Our lecturers have current industry experience and you will train in our brand new salon facilities at Central Brighton Campus which are open to the public. We have strong links with industry and employers - during the course you will attend guest lectures, product training sessions and trade shows.
Start dates
Code | Start | Campus | Times | Duration | Fees | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FE0056-1C | 05 Sep 2022 | Central Brighton | Tues & Weds | 35 weeks | £3530.00 |
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Staff Profiles
Entry requirements
16+ (school leavers)
To join this Level 3 course, you should have at least 4 GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, preferably including English, maths and science or have successfully completed a Level 2 beauty therapy qualification.
If you do not have the above grades, you can start on the Level 2 Beauty Therapy course.
Adults
A good standard of English (reading, writing, comprehension). You must be able to devote time to the course at home (4/5 hours per week plus approximately 200 hours of practical home case studies).
Interview required.
Conduct
You will be expected to present yourselves in a professional manner, be polite and courteous. You will attend college wearing a uniform, with your hair up, nails cut short and free from varnish, and strictly no jewellery or facial jewellery is allowed. You will be expected to arrive punctual and attend all classes. These are all requirements of the awarding body.

Course content
- Health safety & hygiene for complementary therapies
- Principles and practice of complementary therapies
- Body massage
- Aromatherapy
- Reflexology
- Anatomy, physiology & pathology for complementary therapies
- Introduction to healthy eating and well being
- Introduction to clinic services & business awareness
- Assessment of clients for holistic treatments
Why the MET?
Our experienced teaching staff are passionate about their areas of expertise and are committed to helping you to attain your learning goals and meet your personal aims.
Without a doubt, one of the reasons we know you will love studying at Brighton MET is the location of our central campus. Right in the heart of Brighton’s world-famous North Laine, the College is within walking distance of all the city’s main amenities – the award-winning city library, the independent shops and eateries and the beach.
Facilities
You'll learn in brand new salon facilities (opened in 2021 as part of our multi-million-pound development of Central Brighton Campus). This includes six hair & beauty salons and one state-of-the-art clinic.
Our professional standard beauty and hairdressing salons are open to the general public, providing you with real-world training experience.
We also offer the use of high end, industry branded equipment and products, plus additional training from external companies, such as Eve Taylor.

Work experience
Our beauty department has very strong links with local employers many of whom started their own careers at Brighton MET.
All of our students will have an opportunity to undertake work experience, which often leads to gaining a permanent position within that company.
We hold an annual careers day where local, national and international employers will come and give seminars. This will give you valuable information and advice about progression opportunities and setting up your own businesses.
We also hold training days, trips to trade shows and have guest speakers to keep all of your training and knowledge current and up to date.
What's next?
Whilst this qualification’s primary purpose is to prepare you for employment as a complementary therapist, you may choose to extend your skills by undertaking specialist qualifications in related therapies such as:
- Indian head massage
- Stone therapy (QCF)
- Sports massage
- Auricular therapies (ear candling)
- Baby/Infant massage
- Beauty therapy
Course fees & additional costs
This course is free (you do not have to pay fees) if:
- You are a UK citizen, hold EU Settlement Status or have a visa which could qualify you for home status.
- AND you are under 19 on 31 August in the year you are studying.
More information about fees for college courses and financial support for 16-19 year olds can be found here. Please speak to our Admissions team if you have any further queries: admissions@gbmc.ac.uk | 01273 667704
Additional costs:
- You will need to buy uniform and kit for the course (approximately £500)
- External trip to trade show: £20
- Portfolio and stationery: £10
