I'm considering reflexology training and looking at difference between level 3 and level 5 courses (what happened to level 4??? ). Obviously it covers more ground but is also £1000 extra. Can anyone advise pros and cons to help me decide which is better option?
If you stick up the links to these courses, perhaps the members can have a look and give an opinion.
But one thing I would say is that the professional standard in the UK is at level 3, and that is if it is a bona fide qualification and not a crappy diploma mill course from a distant learning provider, this is all you need.
But having a quick looksee on the internet, I have noticed that there has been a level 5 course developed. That just means that it goes into the subject matter a bit deeper, and that you will be a more reflective in practice. It wouldn't necessarily mean you would have better technique, but understand more why to use certain techniques.
The cynical side of me thinks its a way of keeping the reflexology teaching bandwagon going, and allowing private schools to offer something more than the typical ITEC/VTCT based college can. I could be wrong of course!
What's more important is the standard of the tuition of any course to meet you needs, and that it gives you the necessary access to professional associations and registers if needed. A good course needs to cover National Occupational Standards (NOS) and leads to acceptance on the Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) register.
I can understand the drive for a higher level qualification. There is scope in reflexology to do this, but there isn't enough scope for reflexology to be a full degree without teaching mountains of non-reflexology subjects. So a professional qualification that is at 2nd year degree level (or HND, DipHE, foundation degree), if done properly sounds a good idea to me.
One thing I must add. There is no legal registration or formal recognition of reflexology in the UK. Anyone can set up as a reflexologist. This is the same for the majority of complementary therapies. Registers available are purely voluntary.
Do a basis college course to get the theory and some practice and the qualifications, then do add on courses that take your interest, delivered by reputable practitioners - that's what I did and wouldn't change a thing. Or do an AOR course - I do regret not having that qualification. It is important to be motivated to continue studying yourself after the course.