Blog: The (Short Course) Student Interview

Last month, St Mary’s University, Twickenham was voted one of the Top Ten Universities of the Year by the 2016 WhatUni? Student Choice Awards, which is a fantastic result. Here in Short Courses & CPD, we wanted to speak to some of our Short Course students to hear first-hand what they thought about our short course programme and specifically, what makes St Mary’s such a great place to study… Carrie-Anne, from Rochester, said it was St Mary’s strong reputation that initially attracted her to our Level 4 Certificate in Sports Massage Therapy (ITEC) course. She knew she wanted to build on her existing knowledge and St Mary’s offered course dates that suited her perfectly. A quick call to our Short Courses HQ provided all the answers she needed in regards to the course structure and learning approach. She also visited the campus in person for a tour of our facilities, which helped to make up her mind. Halfway through her course, she’s delighted with her choice. “My tutor, Kevin, is incredibly experienced so I can ask him tons of questions to gain theoretical know-how whilst learning through hands-on practical sessions.” Another student on the same course, Jessica, also commutes in from Kent, and having completed the Level 3 Massage course here, she’s already a fan of the approachable tutors and relaxed atmosphere in class. On top of her commute, Jessica - the youngest student on the course - is also a competitive swimmer who manages to fit her intense swim training around her lessons here on campus. Alex, currently enrolled on our Level 3 Diploma in Body Massage (ITEC) Short Course - originally hails from Canada. He says word of mouth recommendations from friends and family helped to reassure him that St Mary’s was the ideal place for him to pursue his interest in massage. Plus, he realised the timetabled course hours allowed him to juggle his full-time job at the same time. “St Mary’s really stood out and I’m already looking to take another course here so that I can specialise in my chosen field…” We offer a range of courses specifically timetabled to enable students to further their learning whilst managing existing work and family commitments. Our next round of Sports and Body Massage Level 3 courses kick-off in September 2016 – Following successful completion of Level 3, our students graduate as fully qualified masseurs who can gain insurance and set up their own business or gain employment within the industry. For those with existing Level 3 qualifications looking to upskill, we also offer Level 4 and Level 5 courses enabling our students to work as professionals treating Recreational Sport and Active Leisure enthusiasts in addition to professional sports persons and elite athletes. To find out what you could study and to book your place on upcoming courses, please click here.