SAQA 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.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

National Diploma: Allied Health Therapies 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
65609  National Diploma: Allied Health Therapies 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Integrated Health Professions 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Diploma  Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services  Promotive Health and Developmental Services 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  268  Level 5  NQF Level 05  Regular-Unit Stds Based 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 SAQA 0480/09  2009-07-01  2012-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2012-06-30   2014-06-30  

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:

This Qualification is for learners who wish to enter the fields of Allied Health Practice, specifically in one of the modalities of Therapeutic Aromatherapy, Therapeutic Reflexology or Therapeutic Massage (ARM) as a potential career, and have little or no previous exposure to any of the allied health professions. The Qualification will also be valuable for those who may have been practising within the field, but without formal qualifications. It will enable learners to acquire the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes to practise ethically as independent practitioners in field of choice.

Although it is indicated that this Qualification falls into the sub-field 'Promotive Health and Developmental Services' it is also applicable in the other sub-fields of Preventive Health, Curative Health and Rehabilitative Health. Therapeutic Aromatherapy, Therapeutic Reflexology or Therapeutic Massage are all able to be used to meet the preventive, palliative, rehabilitative or maintenance needs of the patient, thus cutting across all the sub-fields.

On completion of this Qualification and depending on area of specialisation selected, successful learners will be able to:
  • Operate effectively in a small business environment.
  • Minimise health and safety risks in a therapeutic environment.
  • Apply knowledge of normal anatomy and biophysical functioning of the human body to determine the presence of disease states in a patient.
  • Manage patients in a variety of settings.
  • Conduct basic research.
  • Conduct a holistic assessment of a patient applicable to the chosen therapeutic modality, select the method or means of intervention and explain the benefits of the chosen intervention.
  • Deliver a therapeutic treatment to the patient in the chosen modality.

    Practitioners will generally carry out their roles within the context of current legislation, quality assurance policies, procedures and processes of the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa (AHPCSA) and any other relevant ETQA.

    Rationale:

    The creation of self-employment opportunities is a priority area within the South African context and is supported by legislation, national policies and strategies. In order to meet the Allied Health Sector requirements within the context of a quality assured environment and processes, it is important to be able to identify and recognise competent health practitioners, proficient in one or more of the modalities of therapeutic aromatherapy, therapeutic reflexology and therapeutic massage therapy (ARM).

    This Qualification serves as a means for providing recognition to practitioners entering the allied health field, thus making it possible for them to increase their employment prospects and, at the same time, providing a means whereby organisations can appoint practitioners in line with proven competencies.

    This Qualification makes provision for core skills and knowledge for application in integrated allied health practices in general, but also allows for specialisation in one of three specialist professional roles, viz.:
  • Therapeutic Aromatherapy.
  • Therapeutic Reflexology.
  • Therapeutic Massage.

    On successfully completing this Qualification, the learner should be eligible for registration as a practitioner with the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa (AHPCSA). This affords career opportunities within the ambit of associated allied health professions according to legal and ethical requirements stipulated by the AHPCSA. The qualification will enable practitioners to deliver a therapeutic aromatherapy, therapeutic reflexology or therapeutic massage. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
  • Grade 12 or recognized equivalent.
  • Computer Literacy at NQF Level 3.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    This qualification can be achieved wholly or in part through recognition of prior learning, in terms of the defined exit level outcomes and/or individual unit standards and in agreement with the provider and the relevant ETQA. Evidence can be presented in various ways, including SAQA-verified international and/or previous local qualifications and/or certified reports, testimonials mentioning functions performed, work records, portfolios and performance records. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    In order to be credited with this qualification, learners are required to achieve the following:

    Fundamental component:
  • All Unit Standards in the Fundamental component - totalling 60 credits - are compulsory, regardless of area of specialisation.

    Core component:
  • All Unit Standards in the Core component - totalling 118 credits - are compulsory, regardless of area of specialisation.

    Elective component:
  • Unit Standards totalling a minimum of 90 credits are required to complete the Diploma.
  • Learners may choose from three different elective specialisation options.
  • Each area of specialisation carries a total of 90 credits.
  • Exit Level Outcomes 6 and 7 apply to Therapeutic Aromatherapy.
  • Exit Level Outcomes 8 and 9 apply to Therapeutic Reflexology.
  • Exit Level Outcomes 10 and 11 apply to Therapeutic Massage. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Operate effectively in a small business environment.

    2. Minimise health and safety risks in a therapeutic environment.

    3. Apply knowledge of normal anatomy and biophysical functioning of the human body to determine the presence of disease states in a patient.

    4. Manage patients in a variety of settings.

    5. Conduct basic research.

    6. Assess a patient for Therapeutic Aromatherapy.

    7. Deliver Therapeutic Aromatherapy treatment to a patient.

    8. Assess a patient for Therapeutic Reflexology.

    9. Deliver Therapeutic Reflexology treatment to a patient.

    10. Assess a patient for Therapeutic Massage.

    11. Deliver Therapeutic Massage treatment to a patient.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:

    This qualification addresses the following Critical Cross-Field Outcomes, as detailed in the associated unit standards:
  • Identifying and solving problems are demonstrated in minimising health and safety risks and providing a therapeutic environment for the patients.
  • Working effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation or community is demonstrated in the effective operation of a small business and building a patient base.
  • Organising and managing oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively are demonstrated in the successful management of a small business.
  • Collecting, analysing, organising and critically evaluating information is demonstrated in the management of patients and continuous record keeping.
  • Communicating effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in oral and/or written modes is demonstrated throughout all the activities associated with the successful provision of treatments and operating a business.
  • Using science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others is demonstrated in the tools used in the business and during treatments.
  • Demonstrating an understanding of the world as a set of interrelated systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation are demonstrated in the successful management of patients and the referral of patients where necessary. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

    1.1 Strategic, financial and control aspects of a small business enterprise are explained in terms of business planning.
    1.2 Legal and ethical requirements of business practice in a South African context are described and applied in terms of business operations.
    1.3 Managerial and administrative functions are performed in accordance with best business practice.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

    2.1 Compliance with the requirements of the relevant, current occupational health and safety legislation, and the rights and responsibilities of individuals as outlined in the Constitution of South Africa are applied at all times.
    2.2 All actions carried out during therapeutic interactions clearly demonstrate the promotion of patient and own health and safety.
    2.3 Information regarding infectious diseases and especially HIV/AIDS is communicated to patient and/or community in a manner that promotes good health practice and prevents the spread of disease.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

    3.1 The normal structure of tissues, organs and organ systems of the human body are described and/or explained.
    3.2 The normal biophysics related to all human body systems are explained.
    3.3 Changes that occur in the systems of the human body in specific disease states are described.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

    4.1 Patients are managed in a manner consistent with the patient's rights, and statutory requirements of the field.
    4.2 Patients are supplied with information throughout the therapeutic interactions to provide them with the tools to make independent and informed lifestyle improvement decisions.
    4.3 Cultural sensitivity is displayed throughout all the stages of intervention.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

    5.1 A research assignment is planned that is relevant to the field of study.
    5.2 A literature review, relevant to the planned research subject, is carried out.
    5.3 A basic research design is constructed and relevant data is gathered and organised.
    5.4 Research findings are compiled and presented in a written research report.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

    6.1 A holistic assessment of the patient is carried out by means of lifestyle and medical histories and own observation of the patient.
    6.2 A treatment plan is compiled that indicates the application of the pharmacological and pharmacokinetic effects of the chemical constituents of essential oils and carrier oils.
    6.3 The selected treatments for both a normal and a diseased body are explained in terms of the expected benefits and possible adverse reactions to the treatment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

    7.1 The principles of Therapeutic Aromatherapy are explained.
    7.2 The techniques used for delivering Therapeutic Aromatherapy into the body are described.
    7.3 A full body Therapeutic Aromatherapy treatment is delivered to a patient according to the designed treatment plan.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:

    8.1 A holistic assessment of the patient is carried out by means of lifestyle and medical histories and own observation of the patient.
    8.2 A treatment plan is compiled that indicates the application of pharmacological and pharmacokinetic effects of Therapeutic Reflexology to the normal and diseased anatomical and physiological systems of the body.
    8.3 The selected treatments for both a normal and a diseased body are explained in terms of the expected benefits and possible adverse reactions to the treatment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:

    9.1 The principles of Therapeutic Reflexology are explained.
    9.2 The techniques used for delivering Therapeutic Reflexology to the body are described.
    9.3 A full body Therapeutic Reflexology treatment is delivered to a patient according to the designed treatment plan.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:

    10.1 A holistic assessment of the patient is carried out by means of lifestyle and medical histories and own observation of the patient.
    10.2 A treatment plan is compiled that indicates the application of the pharmacological and pharmacokinetic effects of Therapeutic Massage treatments to the normal and diseased anatomical and physiological systems of the body.
    10.3 The selected treatments for both a normal and a diseased body are explained in terms of the expected benefits and possible adverse reactions to the treatment.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 11:

    11.1 The principles of Therapeutic Massage are explained.
    11.2 The techniques used for delivering Therapeutic Massage to the body are described.
    11.3 A full body Therapeutic Massage treatment is delivered to a patient according to the designed treatment plan.

    Integrated Assessment:

    Formative assessment:

    Throughout the learning programme, formative assessment strategies are used to ensure that Exit Level and Critical Cross-Field Outcomes are achieved. Strategies include:
  • Written assignments.
  • Tests (or examination equivalent tests).
  • Projects.
  • Demonstrations.

    And/or any other applicable method.

    Summative assessment:

    Can take the form of:
  • Oral.
  • Written.
  • Practical examinations.

    As agreed to by the relevant ETQA or ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding in place with the relevant ETQA. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Prior to the establishment of the Allied Health Professions Council during the latter part of the previous Century, there was no professional body for centralising the recognition of those practising Therapeutic Aromatherapy, Therapeutic Reflexology or Therapeutic Massage (ARM) in South Africa. Up to now, access to training has usually been through an international provider, resulting in a South African 'licensed' operation. This also allows those with experience to update their knowledge by undertaking courses in various European and North American schools.

    Since the modern forms of the three modalities had their origins in Europe and the United States of America during the latter part of the 19th and early part of the 20th centuries, during the generation process of this Qualification, comparisons were made with existing courses offered in the United Kingdom, Ireland and the United States of America. Comparisons were also made with qualifications from Australia, New Zealand, India, China, Brazil and sub-Saharan Africa.

    In the United Kingdom, there are controlling bodies for the ARM therapy practitioners, viz., the General Regulatory Council for Complementary Therapists and the Aromatherapy Council of the United Kingdom. The Qualifications and Curriculum Authority is responsible for the Core Curriculum for these therapies. Qualifications in the form of diplomas or degrees are offered at accredited schools. The three therapies are offered as separate courses, on a part-time basis.

    In Ireland, the Obus School of Healing Therapies offers both Aromatherapy and Massage as separate courses, which comprise 200 classroom hours. Subjects include anatomy, physiology, pathology and first aid.

    Modern China has absorbed the western ideas of aromatherapy, reflexology and massage into their traditional philosophies and offer courses in these modalities to their medical and nursing trainees as part of primary health care.

    In India a similar move has taken place, but all formal training in aromatherapy, reflexology or massage is offered in the form of the European or British courses.

    In the United States of America, there is an accrediting authority for ARM called the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools. ARM is offered by private provider institutions and all seem to include anatomy and physiology as subjects within their courses, These American courses are also the South African equivalent of short courses.

    In New Zealand and Australia, schools have to register with their respective Qualifications Authorities. However, no national qualifications or unit standards have yet been listed on these respective Qualification Frameworks.

    Brazil also offers training in these modalities, but, again, the courses are aligned to those in Western Europe.

    No African country - other than South Africa - has national qualifications or standards as yet. British qualifications are offered in various African countries. However, students from many African countries wishing to study in this field tend to come to South Africa to study, as the South African training is known internationally for its excellent standards in these fields of practice. It is envisaged that there will be a great deal of interest in this Qualification in the SADC countries once it has been registered on the South African NQF.

    In most international countries where formal qualifications in medical and nursing science are provided, there is still a certain amount of scepticism for the validity of these modalities as scientific methods of healing. Despite this, these therapies are rapidly growing in popularity all over the world as alternative methods of treatment for various ailments and many Medical Aid companies encourage the regular use of ARM therapists as an integral part of health lifestyle management.

    There are no countries that offer full-time national qualifications of a type envisaged in this South African model. All training offered in the various countries of the world comprises provider-specific qualifications, courses and/or modules. This Qualification will provide global leadership as a formal, national qualification and give access to local and other learners to qualify as accredited practitioners. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This Qualification articulates horizontally with:
  • ID 58310: National Diploma: Health and Skin Care, NQF Level 5.

    This Qualification articulates vertically with:
  • Advanced Diploma: Somatology, NQF Level 6. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Providers offering learning towards this Qualification or the component unit standards must be accredited by the relevant ETQA or ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding in place with the relevant ETQA.
  • Moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA or ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding in place with the relevant ETQA, according to moderation principles and the agreed ETQA procedures.
  • Internal and external moderation must be conducted by moderators appointed by the provider and accredited through the relevant ETQA or ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding in place with the relevant ETQA.
  • Both internal and external moderators must be in possession of an appropriate qualification at or above the level of this Qualification, as well as relevant clinical expertise and current experience in the relevant modality. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    It is strongly recommended that learners entering for this Qualification are competent in the following Unit Standards:
  • ID 14494: Educate and work closely with the community with regard to sexually transmitted infections (STI) including human immune virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS).
  • ID 119661: Demonstrate knowledge of the foundations of human rights and democracy. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  242585  Analyse the dynamics of different interactive styles in client relationships  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  3 
    Core  244514  Apply occupational health, safety and environmental legislation in the workplace  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  12 
    Core  243639  Apply safety and infection control principles in the workplace  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  10 
    Core  262401  Deliver integrated health care in a community care environment  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  15 
    Core  252032  Develop, implement and evaluate an operational plan  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  8 
    Core  262398  Explain the anatomical and physiological functioning of body systems in specific disease states  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  25 
    Core  252040  Manage the finances of a unit  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  8 
    Core  262380  Produce a business plan for a small business  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  12 
    Core  12891  Apply concepts and principles of business ethics in the professional environment  Level 6  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L6  5 
    Core  10301  Complete a research assignment  Level 6  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L6  20 
    Fundamental  10622  Conduct communication within a business environment  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  8 
    Fundamental  262379  Describe the normal anatomical and physiological functioning of the body  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  25 
    Fundamental  262479  Practise within relevant legal and ethical codes  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  6 
    Fundamental  262400  Support patients in lifestyle management  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  21 
    Elective  262397  Conduct a patient assessment prior to a therapeutic aromatherapy treatment  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  10 
    Elective  262421  Conduct a patient assessment prior to a therapeutic massage treatment  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  10 
    Elective  262443  Conduct a patient assessment prior to a therapeutic reflexology treatment  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  10 
    Elective  262420  Deliver a therapeutic aromatherapy treatment to a patient  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  40 
    Elective  262447  Deliver a therapeutic massage treatment to a patient  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  40 
    Elective  262437  Deliver a therapeutic reflexology treatment to a patient  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  40 
    Elective  262478  Develop a therapeutic aromatherapy treatment plan for a patient  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  20 
    Elective  262422  Develop a therapeutic massage treatment plan for a patient  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  20 
    Elective  262419  Develop a therapeutic reflexology treatment plan for a patient  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  20 
    Elective  262418  Explain the expected effects of a therapeutic reflexology treatment on both a normal and a diseased body  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  20 
    Elective  262378  Explain the expected effects of therapeutic massage treatment on a normal and a diseased body  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  20 
    Elective  262402  Select appropriate essential and carrier oils for a therapeutic aromatherapy treatment of both a normal and a diseased body  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  20 


    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.