What support will I get?
You will be able to contact your course tutor by email. The Southern Therapies School will always make themselves available for any support needed via email, phone conversations and the website. The School prides itself on ensuring a happy and healthy learning environment is maintained at all times.
What will I end up with after my Reflexology study?
You will have a Diploma of Reflexology. You will also have a first aid certificate. This will enable you to practice with the public and apply to New Zealand’s professional body.
How many students do you have in the classroom?
There will be no more than 12 students on any course. The Southern Therapies School wants to offer each student the best and so keeps the numbers to a minimum.
Is the reflexology diploma course NZQA?
No. At the moment Reflexology is self governed by Reflexology New Zealand who have developed high, quality education standards which stand up in an international environment. The diploma is designed to meet or exceed all criteria required by ITEC and other examining bodies worldwide.
What is Reflexology?
In their Code of Ethics, Reflexology New Zealand (RNZ) define reflexology as:
“Reflexology is a form of treatment that involves applying pressure as well as the use of effleurage techniques (or massage) in a certain manner to all areas of the feet. In the foot there are reflex areas, which relate to all organs and systems within the body and these reflex areas are found on the soles, tops and sides of the feet. The feet as a whole correspond to the whole body. By working the feet it is possible to find out which areas of the body are out of balance and treatment can be given to rebalance the body by stimulating its own healing mechanism. The hands and ears can also be used in reflexology and again similar reflex areas exist corresponding to the whole body.” www.reflexology.org.nz
What recognition do reflexologists receive in New Zealand?
Legislation and policies relating to the regulation of reflexology practitioners are currently under development in New Zealand. Until legislation dictates otherwise, students are advised to register with a recognised professional body. This shows that you are well qualified. In New Zealand, Reflexology New Zealand (RNZ) is our professional body. They have strict criteria for their professional
membership. A professional member of RNZ may also apply to the New Zealand Charter of Health Practitioners for further recognition of their skills, support and insurance.
RNZ also offer affiliate and student membership options to support the learner on their journey. For more information see www.reflexology.org .nz .
Will my Diploma in Reflexology meet the RNZ requirements?
Yes. The Southern Therapies School of New Zealand has specifically tailored the diploma to cover all aspects required by RNZ. As the requirements are high this qualification is on a par with those taught internationally.
Is Reflexology a new therapy?
Evidence shows that reflexology was practiced by ancient Egyptian physicians over 4000 years ago. It is also believed that reflexology was an used in ancient Indian, European, North American Native and Oriental healing. It has grown in popularity since about 1930. It becomes more mainstream yearly as people are discovering its efficacy.
Why should I belong to RNZ?
-Use of the letters MRNZ after your name (once qualified)
-Free listing on RNZ website for those looking for a reflexologist
-Use of the organisations logo on all your advertising literature
-Peer group support from local area groups
-Latest industry information via journals
-Access to research papers
-Access to “Members Area” on the website
-Reflexology advice
-Low cost, high cover, insurance policy from top insurance company is a requirement for membership
-Fully accredited CPD events and international speakers at conference
-A assurance to your clients that you are trained to a high professional standard
What is a clinical reflexologist?
A Clinical Reflexologist is someone who has been trained to the highest standards and can create a treatment protocol for many different conditions. Unlike those who call themselves reflexologists but who have only done a weekend course you will be equipped to run a professional clinic and taught to treat the public in a correct and proper manner. You will be confident to advertise yourself as a professional in your field.
What Qualification do I need to do the reflexology diploma?
If English is not your first language you must have a fluent understanding of it. To do the diploma you must have successfully completed the Certificate in Introduction
to Reflexology. You will need to have determination and a strong will to learn as the diploma requires a high level of home study and self directed learning.
What if I miss some of a course?
80% attendance at any course is required to succeed. Understandably unforeseen circumstances may prevent attendance. Students are expected to make up the lost time to ensure there are no gaps in their knowledge. If they do not attend they will not gain their qualification. Students are expected to let the school know if they will be absent and make suitable arrangements with the tutor. Weekend seminars will not be repeated for an absent student.
At the schools discretion a student may possibly finish their qualifications by attending the next intake provided the school is satisfied with the reasons for the absence and has space on a subsequent course.
How many hours of study will I have to do for the reflexology diploma?
The Course consists of 1227 hours
Contact hours with tutor 207
Self directed learning hours 520
Case studies 200
Anatomy & Physiology 300 (from outside provider)
To complete the diploma students will need to have completed the above criteria, passed 3 theory tests during the year, one theory and one practical skills examination at the end of the diploma study. Students must also complete their cases studies to an expected level, hold a First Aid certificate and have completed a minimum NZQA Level 4 Anatomy and Physiology Certificate (This must be obtained from an outside provider a list of options will be made available to interested students).
Why should I study reflexology with the Southern Therapies School of NZ?
The tutor, Cathy Searle, is a qualified professional practicing reflexologist. She is a member of RNZ and a member of The New Zealand Charter of Health Professionals. She holds certification in adult education and has been a professional member of RNZ for many years, serving on the RNZ membership committee for 3 years, ensuring a full and complete knowledge of the associations requirements of a training establishment.
The Southern Therapies School will support and help you every step of the way.
What days are the courses taught?
Courses will be taught at weekend seminars to enable those busy during the week to attend. Courses will also be offered during the week. Workshops can be tailored to suit.
The school endeavours to work around the students and so dates and times of courses are sometimes open to change. New dates and courses will be posted on the website.
What other courses are there?
Reflexology, Reiki, Massage and Aromatherapy courses. The School will periodically invite quality tutors to teach their specialized fields such as homeopathy for beginners, colour therapy, spiritual healing to name just a few.
Will I get lots of practice on the courses?
The school takes a hands on approach to education. You will practice on your fellow students and they will practice on you. ‘Bodies” will be provided if needed depending on the course and numbers, and to give variation as in real life.
I live a long way from the school, where can I stay?
Oamaru has many different options from cheap B & Bs to top quality accommodation. The school can exclusively offer its students discounts from several, including Thames Court Motel, the exclusive Pen-y-byrn Lodge and The Criterion (one of the oldest hotels in New Zealand situated in the Victorian precinct). There is plenty of choice for all budgets.
What should I wear to the courses?
Something comfortable and easy to move in. The school has a relaxed and informal environment.
What hidden costs are there and what must I bring?
Some courses, such as the diploma in reflexology will require you to purchase a text book. You will need to provide pad, pens, lever arch file for handouts and colouring in pencils. The school will provide therapy tables and reflexology chairs. You are more than welcome to bring your own if you wish. You will be provided with comprehensive handouts at all courses.
Your own pillow, linen and towels may be required for some course.
What if I am unhappy with something?
The school has a complaint process in place and if this should not solve the issue you may contact the RNZ or relevant association for further help. Your best interests are what interests the school.
