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: 

Diploma in Therapeutic Reflexology 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
94766  Diploma in Therapeutic Reflexology 
ORIGINATOR
Potchefstroom Akademie (Edms) Bpk/Potchefstroom Academy (Pty) Ltd 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Diploma (Min 240)  Field 09 - Health Sciences and Social Services  Preventive Health 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  240  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered-data under construction  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2032-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

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.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The Diploma in Therapeutic Reflexology provides the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to enable a successful learner to follow a career path as a Therapeutic Aromatherapist. Qualified learners can register with the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa (AHPCSA) which enables them to work within the Act and regulations within their particular scope of practice.

A qualifying learner will be able to:
  • Have an in depth knowledge and informed understanding of terminology, anatomical positions, structural organisation and function of anatomy and physiology relevant to the field of Therapeutic Reflexology.
  • They will also be able to select, plan, implement and manage standard reflexology concepts within the field of therapeutic reflexology, in order to perform a practical reflexology treatment.
  • Be able to apply fundamental entrepreneurship concepts and legal skills to establish.
  • Operate a successful business in accordance with acceptable ethical and professional behaviour.
  • Relevant to the practice of Therapeutic Reflexology.
  • Have an understanding to guide the client/patient to a healthier lifestyle utilising nutritional knowledge and recommendations. As well as have an understanding of the nature and scope of the legal responsibilities for a Therapeutic Reflexologist, Therapeutic Aromatherapist, and Therapeutic Massage Therapist.

    Rationale:
    The Diploma in Therapeutic Reflexology provides a formal qualification to learners who want to obtain training in order to follow a career in the field of Therapeutic Reflexology in Health Care settings. The qualification has been developed according to the Allied Health Professions Council (AHPCSA) Act specifications and allows qualified learners to register with the AHPCSA on completion of the qualification.

    Learners will be trained for viable careers, leading to economic independence, responsible lifestyle, sustainable development and service to the community by improving health status of society. Thus these learners will be able to find employment in massage therapy franchise companies, private therapy consultants, yoga studios and health spas.

    Furthermore it will lead to personal development whereby learners will benefit from the stimulating, nurturing and formative learning environment created for the realisation, fulfilment and continuous growth of the learners' potential, into persons with integrity, ethical responsibility, social, religious and cultural sensitivity with an economic independence. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    Potchefstroom Academy strives to comply with the National Policy for the Implementation of the Recognition of Prior Learning as gazetted on 15 March 2013. As stated, RPL may be carried out at any level of learning in order to provide an alternative access route into a qualification of learning for those who do not meet the formal entry requirements for admission. RPL assessment will constitute two parts, namely the Cognitive Assessment and Supporting Documentation which will provide an insight into determining whether the required competencies have been met.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entrance requirement for the Diploma in Therapeutic Reflexology can either be the National Senior Certificate (NSC) obtained by learners after 2008 or the National Certificate (Vocational) NC(V) or the Senior Certificate obtained by learners prior to 2008. 

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The Diploma in Therapeutic Reflexology consists of 17 compulsory modules at NQF Levels 5 and 6 adding up to 263 Credits.

    NQF Level 5 (8 modules, 105 Credits):
  • Anatomy and Physiology I, 25 Credits.
  • Therapeutic Reflexology I, 54 Credits.
  • Communication and Listening Skills, 2 Credits.
  • Business Practice, 6 Credits.
  • Nutrition I, 8 Credits.
  • First Aid, 2 Credits.
  • Computer Practice, 2 Credits.
  • Exercise Science I, 6 Credits.

    NQF Level 6 (9 modules, 158 Credits):
  • Anatomy and Physiology II, 25 Credits.
  • Dietary Supplements, 8 Credits.
  • Practice Management, 4 Credits.
  • Therapeutic Reflexology II, 54 Credits.
  • Research, 5 Credits.
  • Pathology and Patho-physiology, 30 Credits.
  • Patient Care, 4 Credits.
  • Exercise Science II, 8 Credits.
  • Work Integrated Learning/Experiential Learning, 20 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate in depth knowledge and informed understanding of terminology, anatomical positions, structural organisation and function of anatomy and physiology relevant to the field of Therapeutic Reflexology, to aid in the development of underpinning knowledge for practical application.
    2. Select, plan, implement and manage standard reflexology concepts within the field of therapeutic reflexology, in order to perform a practical reflexology treatment.
    3. Demonstrate and apply fundamental entrepreneurship concepts and legal skills to establish and operate a successful business in accordance with acceptable ethical and professional behaviour relevant to the practice of Therapeutic Reflexology.
    4. Understanding to guide the client/patient to a healthier lifestyle utilising nutritional knowledge and recommendations.
    5. Understanding of the nature and scope of the legal responsibilities for a Therapeutic Reflexologist, Therapeutic Aromatherapist, and Therapeutic Massage Therapist as per the profession specific modality studied. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Cellular function and tissue organisation of the human body is described and explained.
  • The structure, formation and maintenance of skeleton are described and explained with references to movement and protection of the human body.
  • Dermatology and skin disorders as a point of reference to diagnose and provide advice for safe effective treatments are understood.
  • The organs and their functions that are involved in the digestive system and the body metabolism are described.
  • The different transport systems of the body necessary to support life are investigated and explained.
  • The organs of the male and female reproductive system are identified and the function of each is discussed, as well as the endocrine and exocrine products of the testis and ovaria and how the continuity of the species offspring is ensured.
  • The different excretory systems of the body to sustain life are investigated and explained.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • The theory and historical development pertaining to reflexology 2 is discussed and elaborated.
  • The differences between the anatomical relations, structures and reflexology maps of the feet are distinguished.
  • The pressure, massage techniques and general reactions to a reflexology treatment to the patient is incorporated.
  • The concepts, principles and theory of the meridians in the feet are understood and explained.
  • Reflection of all values, ethical conduct and justifiable decision making regarding client's rights, confidentiality and code of ethics appropriate to the practice of reflexology are understood.
  • Relaxation treatment and reflexology treatment together with assessment procedures and completion of the consultation card is prepared and performed.
  • Relaxation as a coping skill to calm the mind and allow thinking to become more clear and effective is explained.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Entrepreneurship concepts and characteristics are outlined and described.
  • Small Medium and Micro Enterprise opportunities and possibilities can be recognised and selected.
  • Small Medium and Micro Enterprise problems and pitfalls are outlined and identified.
  • Effective business plans are be outlined and built.
  • Small Medium and Micro Enterprise management styles and elements are identified and discussed.
  • Good Small Medium and Micro Enterprise administrative practice is outlined and applied.
  • Introductory financial concepts are outlined and applied.
  • Retail/Production/Service pricing models are outlined and calculated to identify cash flow, costing and profits.
  • Enterprise financial viability is estimated and calculated.
  • Entrepreneurial legal aspects are identified and explained.
  • Fundamental marketing concepts are identified and explained.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Basic nutrition, anti-nutrients, macro and micronutrients and how they enter the bloodstream, and how micronutrients protect you from free radicals is explained.
  • Nutrition as part of sensible advice to correct nutritional imbalances is investigated and explained.
  • A posture analysis is performed and exercise recommendations for remediation are made.
  • The body composition using anatomical landmarks is calculated.
  • Knowledge is acquired and integrated to advice clients on dietary influences affecting the transportation system of the body.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • The different regulations and requirements as required by the Allied Health Professions Council are outlined.
  • Legal responsibilities for a therapist are identified.

    Integrated Assessment:
    According the assessment policy of Potchefstroom Academy an integrated assessment approach is incorporated through formative and summative assessment processes.

    Theory Assessment:
    A variety of assessment strategies and/or approaches will be used such as, but not limited to:
  • Tests.
  • Assignments.
  • Workbooks.
  • Projects.
  • Demonstrations.

    Practical assessment:
    May take the form of:
  • Written.
  • Practical.
    Or
  • Oral assessment.
  • Case studies and experiential training. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    There are a variety of Professional Reflexology Associations in the world. South Africa is one of the first countries to recognise and register Therapeutic Reflexology under the Allied Health Professions Act. South Africa also provides the highest level of training as training providers are governed by legislation appropriate to the level for the profession.

    In countries like Canada, Reflexology sits as an unregulated or unlicensed health modality as there are no national training standards or provincial regulations.

    Course length varies from short professional or introductory workshops to a full time or part time qualification according to the stipulations of the particular professional body or legislation.

    Below is a selection of Professional Reflexology Associations from around the world that compares with this qualification:
    In Ireland, the Marguerite Brady School of Reflexology offers the Massage and Reiki Diploma in Reflexology. The syllabus is composed of the following 7 Modules embracing 150 hours of tutorials over a minimum period of 14 months and 60 hours of case studies:
    Subjects:
  • Anatomy and physiology.
  • Reflexology.
  • Therapeutics.
  • Nutrition.
  • Clinical training Case studies.
  • Practitioner development and ethics.

    In Australia the Australasian Academy of Wellness Therapies offers a Diploma of Reflexology with a duration of 12 - 15 months (full time or part time).
    Subjects:
  • Principles of reflexology.
  • Fundamental and practical understanding of zone therapy.

    And also in Australia, the Eastwest College of Natural Therapies offers a Diploma of Reflexology the qualification runs for a duration of 12 months.

    Learning Outcomes are as follows:
  • Communicate effectively with clients.
  • Make referrals to other health care professionals when appropriate.
  • Comply with infection control policies and procedures in health work.
  • Contribute to OHS processes.
  • Reflect and improve upon professional practice.
  • Develop professional expertise.
  • Analyse health information.
  • Manage a practice.
  • Maintain an effective health work environment.
  • Implement and monitor compliance with legal and ethical requirements.
  • Maintain personal health and awareness as a professional responsibility.
  • Provide first aid.
  • Work within a reflexology framework.
  • Prepare for a reflexology treatment.
  • Provide reflexology treatment.
  • Monitor and evaluate reflexology treatments.
  • Use specific health terminology to communicate effectively.
  • Work within a massage framework.
  • In Denmark Privately owned schools offers education on a higher level as defined in the RAB ("Registreret Alternativ Bahandler" - Registered alternative Therapist.) regulations.

    Subjects are as follows:
  • Anatomy/physiology.
  • Pathology/pharmacology.
  • Practical reflexology training (incl. instruction in legal matters and the practical running of a clinic).
  • Psychology/communication.
  • Other subjects within alternative healthcare:
    > Diet/vitamins/minerals.
    > Homeopathy.
    > Other complementary techniques.
    > First Aid-instruction (incl. heart massage).

    Conclusion:
    From the above information collected, it is evident that this qualification compares favourably with those offered in Denmark, Australia and Ireland in terms of the modules and the learning outcomes. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontally:
  • Diploma in Therapeutic Reflexology at NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Therapeutic Aromatherapy at NQF at NQF Level 6.

    Vertically:
  • There are no qualifications present on the NQF Level 7 in this field.

    The articulation is subject to the institution's admission requirements. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2015. 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    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.
     
    1. Potchefstroom Akademie (Edms) Bpk/Potchefstroom Academy (Pty) Ltd 


    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.