OPTM8 Spa Therapies

Level: 5

Credits: 10

Directed Learning hours: 45

Workplace or Practical Learning hours: 5

Self Directed Learning hours:	50

Total Learning Hours: 100

Aims
This course aims to provide students with an understanding of the spa industry, and with massage techniques that are in demand within the spa-industry.

Pre-requisites

 * OPTM1 Study Skills
 * OPTM2 Basic Massage
 * OPTM3 Fundamentals of Massage

Co-requisites

 * OPTM11 Communication 2

Learning Outcomes
At the successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
 * 1) Discuss characteristics and trends relevant to the spa industry
 * 2) Reflect on employment options within the spa industry
 * 3) Demonstrate an understanding of the factors that are involved in creating the spa experience
 * 4) Compare and contrast a variety of contemporary spa services
 * 5) Perform selected spa therapies competently
 * 6) Demonstrate an understanding of ethical considerations relevant to work in the spa industry

Content

 * Development of the spa industry
 * Characteristics of the spa industry
 * Employment within the spa industry
 * The spa experience
 * Spa services
 * Spa therapies
 * Ethical considerations

Assessment
The following strategies may be used:
 * Assignments
 * Theoretical examination
 * Discussion
 * Reflective blogging
 * Journalling/diary
 * Demonstration of practical skills
 * Supervised clinical assessment
 * Online quizzes/exercises

Attendance Requirements
Students are expected to attend 90% of practical classes. If in the opinion of the programme manager students have a valid reason for non-attendance, their total attendance may be permitted to drop to a minimum of 80%. Non-participation in these classes is treated as non-attendance. Students will be expected to engage with online discussions and activities and in some instances, participation may be required.

Completion requirements
Students must achieve competency in all assessment tasks for completion of this course. Students attendance and participation must also comply with the attendance requirements of the course.

Student Reading List
Required Reading Resources: Recommended Reading Resources:
 * The course coordinator may specify required reading resources.
 * The course coordinator may recommend additional reading resources.