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Training advice and national search
There are many different associations and awarding bodies offering differing qualifications in aromatherapy, so which one do you choose? The answer is to decide first what you want from the course. If you want to practice on friends and family only or for self interest then a basic course is ideal. These courses are also fine if you want a taster before committing yourself to a full diploma course.
If you want to practice as an aromatherapist, then your course must be benchmarked to the National Occupational Standards (NOS) for aromatherapy. When speaking to the course tutor, make sure that the course is mapped to the NOS and complies with the AC’s Core Curriculum
Click here to view the National Occupational Stands at Skills for Health
Click here to download a copy of the AC’s Core Curriculum . There are now various degree courses and foundation degree courses offering aromatherapy modules. These are normally affiliated to one of the professional aromatherapy associations. They include the NOS requirements for aromatherapy but also many other modules. It is up to you to choose which course best suits your requirements and pocket. Some degree courses are theory only and do not qualify you as a practitioner, so if you want to practise, check the details.
You can also review colleges that have been officially recognised by the AC through our College Recognition Scheme. This scheme was launched on the 22nd April 2010.
Tips for choosing an aromatherapy training course:
· Where possible, go and meet the tutor and find out about their experience in aromatherapy. You have to commit to working with this person for at least 9 months (one academic year), so it is important that you feel comfortable with them. · If the tutor is a practising aromatherapist, it is useful to pay and book yourself in for a treatment with them so you can be assured of their technique and knowledge. · Always check to ensure that the course is benchmarked to the NOS and AC Core Curriculum. Ask for the course syllabus and it should give you this assurance. If the course is approved, you will be completing 60 treatments outside of the classroom and complete reflective practice evaluation on each of the case studies (usually at least 10 individuals). · Check on the times of the classes and make sure you can attend them all. Most courses insist on 80% completion of in-class hours in order to graduate. · You can do the theory by distance learning, but as per the AC’s Core Curriculum, you will need to complete at least 94 hours in class for practical work, business studies, understanding research and therapeutic relationships. Those distance learning courses that meet the requirements will give you information on attending workshops and you have to complete the minimum 94 hours for registration. · Look at what the course is offering for the price. Some courses are more expensive, but they may include exam fees, essential oils, field trips, books etc.
It is impossible to list all the schools on this site, so the associations are listed below including links to their sites where you can search for schools in your area.
Aromatherapy & Allied Practitioners Association
Association of Medical Aromatherapists
Association of Natural Medicine
Association of Physical & Natural Therapists
Institute of Complementary & Natural Medicine
International Federation of Aromatherapists
International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists
International Holistic Aromatherapy Foundation
International Examination Board (ITEC)
Vocational Training & Charitable Trust (VTCT)
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One of the functions of the lead body is to maintain standards of education for the profession and we undertake regular reviews of the National Occupation Standards in liaison with Skills for Health and also regular reviews on our Core Curriculum. We also have the role of reviewing Awarding Body’s submissions for courses to Ofqual before approval onto the Qualifications & Credit Framework (QCF). |
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Aromatherapy Council |
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Education & Training |
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The Lead Body for the UK Aromatherapy Profession |
