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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Occupational Certificate: Body Massage Therapist 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
121673  Occupational Certificate: Body Massage Therapist 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner-Services SETA 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Part-Qualification  Field 11 - Services  Personal Care 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  55  Not Applicable  NQF Level 04  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 1121/24  2024-01-30  2029-01-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2030-01-30   2033-01-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:

The purpose of this part qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Body Massage Therapist.

A Body Massage Therapist provides elementary massage treatment to improve a person's appearance and self-esteem.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Apply and advise one a desired massage to clients.
  • Set up and run a sustainable salon.
  • Apply and uphold OHS provisions in the salon.

    A qualified learner will demonstrate the following key attributes:
  • Customer Care.
  • Communication.
  • Professionalism.
  • Reliability.
  • Ethical.

    Rationale:
    The demand for Body Massage Therapists is steadily increasing within the beauty and cosmetology industry, and these professionals enjoy industry recognition due to their strong alignment with employment opportunities. They specialise in providing essential body massages. In the twenty-first century, the demand for the skills offered by Body Massage Therapists continues to grow within the beauty and cosmetology sector, highlighting the ongoing need for the expertise. There are no similar qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework.

    This part qualification provides a structured framework for learners to develop essential competencies in body massaging, a field that is increasingly popular within the Beauty and Cosmetology industry. Successful completion of this part qualification equips learners not only with massage skills but also opens doors to numerous job opportunities within the Beauty and Cosmetology sector. Furthermore, qualified learners have the option to establish their own businesses, thus contributing to their communities. Body Massage Therapists play a pivotal role in promoting relaxation and positive mindfulness in individuals, resulting in a more optimistic outlook and improved performance in both the job market and society as a whole.

    The Beauty and Cosmetology sector stands to gain significantly from the presence of skilled Body Massage Therapists capable of meeting the diverse needs of their clientele. Competent Body Massage Therapists have the potential to establish a strong local presence marked by service excellence. This part qualification places a strong emphasis on nurturing a culture of professionalism and service excellence within the Beauty and Cosmetology industry. The global beauty landscape is currently undergoing a transformative shift, reflecting the evolving awareness of beauty consumers' needs and desires. The Beauty and Cosmetology industries are in a phase of growth and development driven by factors like the rise of local beauty brands, the economic activity of the current generation, and the influence of digital technology and connectivity. Notably, the increasing impact of blogging and social media influencers is playing a significant role in shaping these industries.

    The typical learners are the school leavers, unemployed persons, employed and self-employed persons who have achieved an NQF Level 3 qualification. This part qualification was developed in collaboration with Professional Body in the Beauty and Cosmetology Industry to secure the competency requirements expected by the industry. Typical occupations in which the qualifying learner will operate (if relevant) include Body Massage Therapy, Beauty Therapy, Beauty Practice, Manual Skin Care Therapy, Eye Grooming Therapy, Makeup Consultancy, Nail Therapy, Temporary Hair Removal Therapy. Qualifying learners may become Body Massage Therapists, provide advice in retail outlets, become Salon Managers or Entrepreneurs.

    There is collaboration with relevant stakeholders such as TVET Colleges, Private Training Providers in the Beauty and Cosmetology Industry and Practising Beauty Therapists. Typical professions in which the qualifying learner will operate include Advance Aesthetic Therapist, Beauty Technologist, Nail Technician, Beauty Therapist and Somatologist. 

  • LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL for Access to Training:
    Learners may use the RPL process to gain access to training opportunities for a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme if they do not meet the formal, minimum entry requirements for admission. RPL assessment provides an alternative access route into a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme.

    Such an RPL assessment may be developed, moderated, and conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider which offers that specific qualification/part qualification/skills programme. Such an assessment must ensure that the learner is able to display the equivalent level of competencies required for access, based on the NQF level descriptors.

    For exemption from modules through RPL,
    learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded.


    RPL for Access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA):
    Learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded.

    A valid Statement of Results is required for admission to the EISA in which confirmation of achievement is provided that all internal assessment criteria for all modules in the related curriculum document have been achieved.
    For a Skills Programme, the accredited Skills Development Provider (SDP) must ensure all modular competency requirements are met prior to the FISA and keep record of such evidence.

    Upon successful completion of the EISA/FISA, RPL learners will be issued with the QCTO certificate for the qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme. Quality Partners are responsible for ensuring the RPL mechanism and process for qualifications and part-qualification is approved by the QCTO.

    Entry Requirements:
    An NQF Level 3 qualification with Mathematical Literacy. 

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This part qualification is made up of compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skill and Work Experience Modules:

    Knowledge Modules
  • 514201-001-00-KM-02, Professionalism and Business Principles, Level 4, 10 Credits.
  • 514201-001-00-KM-03, Setting up a Salon Business Plan, Level 4, 7 Credits.
  • 514201-001-00-KM-04, Integumentary System, Level 4, 5 Credits.
  • 514201-001-00-KM-05, Human Anatomy, Level 4, 5 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 27

    Practical Skill Modules
  • 514201-001-00-PM-07, Perform a Body Massage, NQF Level 4, 20 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 20

    Work Experience Modules
  • 514201-001-00-WM-06, Processes and Procedures for a Body Massage, NQF Level 4, 8 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 8 

  • EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Perform a body massage in a professional and ethical manner in accordance with occupational standards.
    2. Establish and manage a sustainable and compliant establishment in the beauty and cosmetology industry.
    3. Apply integumentary system and human anatomy as applicable to the specific area under treatment.
    4. Apply cosmetic chemistry as applicable to beauty therapy treatment. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
    ELO 1: Perform a body massage in a professional and ethical manner in accordance with occupational standards.
  • Prepare and maintain workstations and tools for a body massage to meet hygiene and sanitation standards.
  • Complete consultation forms for a body massage accurately and make recommendations according to the client's specific needs.
  • Apply human anatomy, treatment adaptations, and contraindications for a body massage.
  • Apply product specifications in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
  • Products and treatment protocol for a body massage are selected to the client's specific needs.
  • Uphold health, safety and environmental protection standards for a body massage.
  • Use communication skills (verbal, non-verbal, listening) appropriately before, during, and after a body massage.
  • Apply professional and ethical conduct during interaction with client during a body massage.

    Associated Assessment Criteria (AAC) for ELO 2:
    ELO 2: Establish and manage a sustainable and compliant establishment in the beauty and cosmetology industry.
  • Explain and apply the concept of marketing in the beauty industry.
  • Discuss and apply criteria to be considered when looking for suitable premises for a beauty salon.
  • Define, explain and apply the management of a salon and the main financial needs and controls.
  • Define, discuss and apply professional conduct in the workplace.
  • Describe and apply the principles of a business plan for starting and managing a beauty salon.
  • Discuss and apply the Occupational Health and Safety legislation in a beauty salon.
  • Discuss legal business obligations applicable to a beauty salon.

    Associated Assessment Criteria (AAC) for ELO 3:
    ELO 3: Apply integumentary system and human anatomy as applicable to the specific area under treatment.
  • Explain and apply anatomy of the human muscles and bones related to the specific area being treated.
  • Explain the structure of the skin, nail and hair.
  • Discuss the functions of the skin.
  • Ageing, dehydration, hyperpigmentation, and sensitivity are discussed.
  • Identify and discuss diseases and disorders of the skin, nail and hair.

    Associated Assessment Criteria (AAC) for ELO 4:
    ELO 4: Apply cosmetic chemistry as applicable to beauty therapy treatment.
  • Explain or define and apply cosmetic chemistry terminology.
  • Discuss and apply pH indicators in the context of cosmetic product formulations i.e., acids, bases, salts, and neutralisers.
  • Describe and apply cosmetic ingredients.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Formative Assessments conducted internally.
    Formative assessments are conducted throughout the training of learners. A range of formal, non-formal, and informal ongoing assessment activities are used to focus on teaching and learning outcomes to improve learner attainment.

    Formative assessments are conducted continuously by the facilitator to feed into further learning, to identify strengths and weakness, and to ensure the learner's ability to apply knowledge, skills and workplace experience gained. Formative Assessments are conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider (SDP), and a variety of ongoing assessment methods may be used, for example, quizzes, assignments, tests, scenarios, role play, interviews. Continuous feedback must be provided.

    Integrated Summative Assessments conducted Internally
    Integrated Assessment involves all the different types of assessment tasks required for a particular qualification, part-qualification or occupational skills programme, such as written assessment of theory and practical demonstration of competence. To achieve this, the Internal Assessment Criteria (IAC) for all modules as found in the QCTO curriculum document must be followed.

    An accredited SDP should implement a well-designed, formal, relevant, final internal Summative Assessment strategy for all modules to prepare learners for the EISA. These assessments evaluate learning achievements relating to the achievement of each module of the relevant components of the qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme.

    Internal Summative Assessments are developed, moderated and conducted by the SDP at the end of each module or after integration of relevant modules, e.g., applied knowledge tests, workplace tasks, practical demonstrations, simulated tasks/demonstrations, projects, case studies, etc. The results of these final formal summative assessments must be recorded. These results, which include the Statement of Work Experience results, where applicable, contribute to the Statement of Results (SoR) that is a requirement for admission to the EISA. An SoR, using the template provided by the Quality Partner, is issued by the accredited SDP for qualifications and part-qualifications. The SDP must produce a valid Statement of Results for each learner, indicating the final result and the date on which the competence in each module, of each component, was achieved. Learners are required to produce this SoR, together with their ID document or alternative ID document, at the point of the EISA.

    External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA) - a national assessment
    The Quality Partner is responsible for the management, conduct and implementation of the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA), in accordance with QCTO set standards. Competence in the EISA is a requirement for certificating a learner.

    For entrance into the EISA, the learner requires a valid Statement of Results issued by the accredited institution indicating:
    The attainment of all modules for the Knowledge, Practical and Work Experience modules. 

  • INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Occupational Certificate: Body Massage Therapist was compared with qualifications from Canada and New Zealand registered qualifications.

    Canada:
    St. Clair College offers a two-year Diploma in Esthetician. Estheticians are an integral part of Spa Beauty, Wellness, Cosmetics, and Holistic practices, to name a few. This comprehensive qualification focuses on the learner gaining the knowledge and skill set, required to further a successful career in an industry of endless opportunities. Qualifying learners are proficient in facials, specialised skin care, body treatments, skin physiology and anatomy, nail enhancements, therapeutic pedicures, hair removal services, make-up artistry, spa business practices, and emerging trends in the industry, via practical and theoretical applications. This qualification resonates with learners who are people-oriented and compassionate while being comfortable with providing personal services.

    Qualification delivery includes the following:
  • Spa software training and digital marketing training designed for the spa industry, delivered in a computer lab.
  • Both Theory and Practicum-based qualifications.
  • Spa Business training to allow for entrepreneurship and various retail and added services revenue streams.
  • Opportunity to take part in field trips and emerging new trends training and demonstrations.
  • Hands-on experiential learning in an onsite College Clinic which is set to mirror a Spa environment.

    Career Opportunities for the qualification are:
    Qualifying learners have the benefit of excellent employment prospects both locally and internationally, including cruise ships and resorts. Employment opportunities in a variety of venues, from spas, salons, health and wellness centres, make-up artistry, nail care centres, and retail beauty outlets, as well as working within Cosmetic practices. Entry requirements to the qualification are High school diploma/graduation certificate and transcript or O Level.

    Similarities
    The above qualification covers most of the content of the Occupational Certificate: Body Massage Therapist.
  • Both have theory, practical and experiential training.
  • Body treatments.

    Differences
    The following differences are noted:
  • The Canadian Diploma has a longer duration.
  • No applied Chemistry.
  • Occupational Certificate Body Massage Therapist: has lower entry requirements.
  • NQF Level of the Canadian Diploma is not indicated.

    New Zealand:
    Otago Polytechnic offers a one-year Certificate in Beauty Therapy at Level 4. It is a 120 credits qualification that covers human anatomy and physiology, facial treatments, make-up services, cosmetic enhancements (lash extensions and tannings), massage treatments, professional practice, nail services, waxing services and clinic. Entry requirements to the qualification are at least 18 years old by the end of the qualification, achieved a Secondary School Qualification equivalent to National Certificate of Educational Achievement), applicants over 20 years are welcome without minimum entry requirements. The qualification is delivered through a combination of practical and theoretical activities. At competition of the qualification learners qualify as Beauty Therapists, Cosmetic Representatives and Mobile Beauty Therapists.

    The qualification is made up of the following outcomes:
  • Implement professional standards and expectations relating to the beauty workplace including all relevant health, safety and hygiene obligations,10 credits.
  • Undertake a full consultation with clients, build client rapport, and perform an in-depth need analysis for beauty services and product needs to develop a beauty treatment plan, 10 credits.
  • Apply knowledge of natural nail services, products, and tools, and related skills, to meet client's needs in accordance with industry standards and current and emerging trends, 12 credits.
  • Apply knowledge of facial and skin care services, and related skills, to meet client's needs, during and after treatment, in accordance with industry standards and current and emerging trends, 30 credits.
  • Apply knowledge of manual hair removal and body care services, and related skills, to meet client's needs, during and after treatment, in accordance with industry standards and current and emerging trends - 30 credits.
  • Apply knowledge of relevant aspects of chemistry, physics and biology in a beauty services context to provide effective services and ensure client comfort and safety, 10 credits.
  • Provide nutritional advice specific to the skin which is complementary for healthy skin, hair and nails, 3 credits. *
  • Apply knowledge of skin and skin-related disease and disorders to identify symptoms and advise clients of possible implications in terms of proposed beauty services, 5 credits.
  • Provide reception and client sales services and carry out associated transactions and administration, 5 credits.
  • Contribute to the operation of a small beauty sector business or client base, 5 credits.

    Similarities
    The Occupational Certificate: Body Massage Therapist has similar outcomes to those used in the New Zealand qualification. The following similarities are noted in the content:
  • Health, safety and hygiene obligations.
  • Consultation with clients, build client rapport, and perform an in-depth need analysis.
  • Body care services, and related skills, to meet client's needs.
  • Knowledge of chemistry, physics and biology in a beauty services context.
  • Reception and client sales services and carry out associated transactions and administration.
  • Both have practical and theory in the delivery, exit at the same level, and purpose.
  • Both require a secondary school qualification as entry requirements.

    Differences
    The following differences are noted:
  • The New Zealand qualification duration is slightly longer compared to Occupational Certificate: Body Massage Therapist.
  • The Occupational Certificate: Body Massage Therapist is limited to body care.
  • The Occupational Certificate: Body Massage Therapist has Work Experience component.

    Conclusion
    The Occupational Certificate: Body Massage Therapist compares favourably with the qualifications compared with in terms of content, complexity and duration. 

  • ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This part qualification provides opportunities for the following articulation options.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Occupational Certificate: Beauty Practitioner, NQF Level 4.
  • Occupational Certificate: Body Therapist, NQF Level 4.
  • Occupational Certificate: Manual Skincare Therapist, NQF Level 4.
  • Occupational Certificate: Eye Grooming Therapist, NQF Level 4.
  • Occupational Certificate: Make-Up Consultant Level 4.
  • Occupational Certificate: Nail Therapist, NQF Level 4.
  • Occupational Certificate: Temporary Hair Removal Therapist, NQF Level 4.
  • Occupational Certificate: Body Care Therapist, Level 4.
  • National Certificate: Vocational, Level 4, NQF Level 4.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • National Occupational Certificate: Beauty Therapist, NQF Level 4.

    Diagonal Articulation
    There are no diagonal articulation options. 

  • NOTES 
    Qualifying for External Assessment:
    To qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required knowledge and practical modules by means of statements of results and a record of completed work experience.

    Additional Legal or Physical Entry Requirements:
    None.

    Criteria for the accreditation of providers
    Accreditation requirements, against which Skills Development Providers (SDP) and Assessment Centres, will be accredited, is found in the Curriculum Document, as listed below:
  • Body Massage Therapist.
  • Curriculum Code: 514201-001-00-09.

    Encompassed Trade:
    This part qualification encompasses the following trades as recorded on the NLRD:
    None.

    Assessment Quality Partner (AQP)
    Services Sector Education and Training Authority (SSETA).

    PARENT QUALIFICATION
    National Occupational Certificate: Beauty Therapist, NQF Level 4, 158 Credits.

    RELATED PART-QUALIFICATIONS
  • Occupational Certificate: Beauty Practitioner, NQF Level 4.
  • Occupational Certificate: Body Therapist, NQF Level 4.
  • Occupational Certificate: Manual Skincare Therapist, NQF Level 4.
  • Occupational Certificate: Eye Grooming Therapist, NQF Level 4.
  • Occupational Certificate: Make-Up Consultant Level 4.
  • Occupational Certificate: Nail Therapist, NQF Level 4.
  • Occupational Certificate: Temporary Hair Removal Therapist, NQF Level 4.
  • Occupational Certificate: Body Care Therapist, NQF Level 4. 

  • LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 



    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.