VTCT Level 3 Award in Anatomical and Physiological Knowledge of Body Systems (VRQ)
training course - BIDEFORD VENUE
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Upcoming Course Dates
Bideford Venue
Exam Date:
Self-study course with exam date booked during your induction video call
Exam date to attend at our Bideford, Devon venue - exam dates on course calendar link below
+ monthly live zoom video coursework support lessons (dates tbc)
This course can be learnt at your own pace as self-study
DATES ARE NON TRANSFERABLE TO ANY OTHER DATE OR VENUE
Course Fee: £400
Pay in full or pay monthly
Pay in full or pay monthly
Course at a Glance
🏆 Awarding Organisation: VTCT
📜 Qualification: VTCT Level 3 Award in Anatomical and Physiological Knowledge of Body Systems (VRQ)
🔢 Qualification Number: 500/8645/5
VTCT Code: AM30085
📍 Exam Venue: Bideford, North Devon
📚 Study Method: Self-paced online learning with an in-person examination
🚀 Start Date: Start your online learning once enrolled
⏱ Guided Learning Hours: 60 hours, including theory learning, research, reading, revision and examination preparation
💻 Online Learning: Complete your anatomy and physiology lessons through our online learning portal
👩🏫 Attendance: One compulsory examination appointment at our Bideford training centre
📅 Exam Date: Arranged during your induction video call, subject to availability
💬 Tutor Support: Optional monthly live online coursework and revision support sessions
📝 Assessment: One VTCT multiple-choice theory examination
📚 Entry Requirements: No previous qualifications or science knowledge required
🎓 Unit Included:
UV30434 – Anatomical and Physiological Knowledge of Body Systems
🧠 Topics Covered: Skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular, lymphatic, nervous, endocrine, respiratory, digestive and urinary systems
💼 Progression Potential: Supports further study in massage, complementary therapies, beauty, sports massage and related disciplines, subject to individual course entry requirements
📖 Additional Costs: Optional anatomy and physiology textbooks, colouring books or other revision resources
✨ No Practical Treatment Assessments or Case Studies Required.
Course Overview
Understand the Human Body - Build Your Foundation for a Career in Therapies
Whether you're preparing to study massage, reflexology, aromatherapy, beauty or sports therapy, a good understanding of anatomy and physiology is an important foundation for your professional training.
The VTCT Level 3 Award in Anatomical and Physiological Knowledge of Body Systems (VRQ) is an Ofqual-regulated qualification designed to help you understand how the human body is structured, how its major systems function and how those systems work together.
You'll explore nine major body systems, develop your understanding of anatomical terminology and build the knowledge that underpins many professional therapy qualifications.
This course combines the flexibility of self-paced online learning with the opportunity to complete your VTCT examination in person at our Bideford training centre in North Devon.
No Previous Science or Anatomy Knowledge is Required
This qualification is suitable for complete beginners.
You don't need previous beauty, massage or complementary therapy qualifications to enrol.
You can work through your theory learning at your own pace, with an examination appointment arranged during your induction video call.
How Your Course Works
1. Enrol and Begin Your Online Learning
Once enrolled, you'll receive access to our online learning portal.
Your course is organised into anatomy and physiology modules, allowing you to gradually build your understanding of the human body.
You can study around your existing work, family and personal commitments without needing to attend regular classroom lessons.
2. Work Through Your Anatomy & Physiology Modules
You'll explore the structure and function of nine major body systems:
✓ Skeletal system
✓ Muscular system
✓ Cardiovascular system
✓ Lymphatic system
✓ Nervous system
✓ Endocrine system
✓ Respiratory system
✓ Digestive system
✓ Urinary system
You'll develop an understanding of anatomical terminology, the body's structures and functions, and how the different systems work together.
3. Revise and Build Your Confidence
As you progress through your learning, you'll have the opportunity to revisit your modules and use your course resources to prepare for your examination.
You can spend additional time on subjects you find challenging and work through your revision at a pace that suits you.
4. Access Optional Live Online Support
You'll have access to optional monthly live online coursework and revision support sessions.
These provide the opportunity to:
✓ Ask questions about anatomy and physiology
✓ Discuss topics you're finding difficult
✓ Get help understanding anatomical terminology
✓ Receive revision guidance
✓ Prepare for your VTCT examination
These sessions are optional, so you can attend whenever you'd benefit from additional support.
5. Attend Your VTCT Examination in Bideford
Your qualification includes one VTCT multiple-choice theory examination.
Your examination will take place at our Bideford training centre in North Devon.
We'll discuss your examination arrangements during your induction video call and book your appointment, subject to availability.
You'll need to attend your scheduled examination appointment in person.
On successful completion of your examination and the required awarding organisation processes, your VTCT certificate will be processed.
What You'll Learn
Your qualification focuses on the structure and function of nine major body systems.
🦴 Skeletal System
Explore the structure and functions of the skeleton, the classification of bones, joints and how the skeletal system supports and protects the body.
💪 Muscular System
Understand the main muscle types, muscle structure, movement and how muscles work together with the skeleton.
❤️ Cardiovascular System
Learn about the heart, blood and blood vessels, and how the cardiovascular system transports oxygen, nutrients and other substances around the body.
🌿 Lymphatic System
Explore the lymphatic system, lymph vessels, lymph nodes and their roles in fluid balance and immune function.
🧠 Nervous System
Understand the central and peripheral nervous systems, nerve communication and how the nervous system coordinates body functions.
⚖️ Endocrine System
Learn about the body's endocrine glands, hormones and their role in regulating physiological processes.
🫁 Respiratory System
Explore the structures involved in breathing and how oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged.
🍎 Digestive System
Understand how food is broken down, nutrients are absorbed and waste is processed through the digestive system.
💧 Urinary System
Learn about the kidneys, urinary tract, fluid balance and the removal of waste products from the body.
Throughout your learning, you'll develop an understanding of how these systems work together to maintain normal body function.
Is This Course Right for You?
This qualification could be ideal if you're:
✨ A complete beginner interested in anatomy and physiology
✨ Planning to study massage therapy
✨ Considering reflexology or aromatherapy training
✨ Working towards a beauty or complementary therapy qualification
✨ A sports or fitness professional wanting to develop your anatomical knowledge
✨ Returning to education after a break
✨ Looking for a standalone regulated Level 3 Anatomy & Physiology qualification
✨ Happy to study online but would prefer to sit your examination in person
Perhaps you've found yourself thinking:
"I'd love to train in massage, but I need to learn anatomy first."
"I haven't studied science since school, and I'm worried I won't understand it."
"I need a recognised Anatomy & Physiology qualification, but I can't attend regular classes."
"I'd rather sit my exam at a training centre than arrange a remote examination."
If so, this qualification could be a great starting point.
Where Could Your Qualification Take You?
Anatomy and physiology underpin many professional therapy and wellbeing qualifications.
After completing your VTCT Level 3 Award, you may be able to use your qualification to support progression towards:
✨ Swedish Massage
✨ Sports Massage
✨ Reflexology
✨ Aromatherapy
✨ Complementary Therapies
✨ Beauty Therapy
✨ Other relevant health, fitness and wellbeing training
Important: This is a theory-based anatomy and physiology qualification. It does not qualify you to provide practical treatments on its own.
Acceptance for entry, exemptions or recognition of prior learning depends on the requirements of the individual qualification, awarding organisation and training provider.
Thinking About Studying Anatomy but Feeling a Little Nervous?
"I'm Not Very Good at Science."
You don't need to have studied anatomy or biology before joining us.
Your course introduces the body systems through structured online learning, allowing you to build your knowledge gradually.
"There Are So Many Complicated Words!"
Anatomy does come with its own vocabulary, but you'll become more familiar with the terminology as you progress.
You can revisit your lessons, make notes and use revision resources to help reinforce your learning.
"It's Been Years Since I Last Studied."
That's absolutely fine.
Many adult learners return to education after a long break.
You can work through the course at a pace that suits you, rather than trying to keep up with a classroom timetable.
"I'm Worried About the Exam."
It's natural to feel nervous about sitting an examination, particularly if you haven't taken one for a while.
You'll have access to your online learning and revision resources, and you can attend optional live online support sessions to help you prepare.
"I Work Full-Time. Will I Have Enough Time?"
Your theory learning is self-paced, so you can fit your studies around your existing commitments.
You'll only need to attend our Bideford training centre for your scheduled examination appointment.
Why Study Anatomy & Physiology with HTTA?
Anatomy and physiology are much more than subjects to revise for an exam.
They're an important foundation for understanding how the body works and how that knowledge relates to professional therapy practice.
When You Study with Us, You'll Benefit From:
✨ An Ofqual-regulated VTCT qualification
✨ Flexible, self-paced online learning
✨ No regular classroom attendance
✨ Structured learning across nine body systems
✨ An in-person examination at our Bideford centre
✨ Optional monthly live online tutor support
✨ Experienced vocational therapy tutors
✨ Clear progression routes into further training
We Understand Therapy Training
Holistic Therapies Training Academy has specialised in vocational training within the massage, complementary therapy, beauty and wellbeing industries since 2007.
We understand how important anatomy and physiology are when you're working towards becoming a professional therapist.
Our aim is to help you develop an understanding of the body that supports both your examination preparation and your future learning.
Where Could Your Anatomy & Physiology Qualification Take You Next?
Your next step will depend on your career goals and the qualifications you wish to pursue.
🎓 LEVEL 3 – ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY
Build your knowledge of the body's major systems
↓
🌿 PROFESSIONAL THERAPY TRAINING
Explore suitable massage, reflexology, aromatherapy, beauty or sports therapy qualifications
↓
✨ FURTHER SPECIALIST TRAINING
Develop your practical skills and continue building your professional qualifications
Looking for Anatomy, Physiology & Pathology?
We also offer the VTCT Level 3 Certificate in Anatomy, Physiology & Pathology, which includes additional pathology learning and assessment requirements.
If your intended qualification requires pathology as well as anatomy and physiology, this may be the more appropriate option.
We recommend checking the entry requirements of your intended next qualification before enrolling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the VTCT Level 3 Anatomy & Physiology Award Recognised?
Yes. The VTCT Level 3 Award in Anatomical and Physiological Knowledge of Body Systems (VRQ) is an Ofqual-regulated qualification.
It provides recognised anatomical and physiological knowledge that may support progression into further therapy qualifications.
Do I Need Previous Qualifications or Science Knowledge?
No. There are no formal entry requirements, and the course is suitable for complete beginners.
Is This Course Completely Online?
Your theory learning is completed online, but you'll attend our Bideford training centre for your VTCT examination.
There are no regular classroom lessons or practical treatment training days.
When Can I Start?
You can begin your online learning once you've enrolled and received access to your course.
Your examination arrangements will be discussed during your induction video call.
How Long Does the Course Usually Take?
The qualification has 60 guided learning hours.
Your actual completion time will depend on your previous knowledge, study commitments and the time you can dedicate to learning and revision.
Many learners may be able to prepare within approximately 6–12 weeks, although this will vary.
What Body Systems Will I Study?
You'll study nine major body systems:
Skeletal
Muscular
Cardiovascular
Lymphatic
Nervous
Endocrine
Respiratory
Digestive
Urinary
Does This Course Include Pathology?
No. This qualification focuses on anatomy and physiology.
If you also need to study diseases and disorders of the body, our VTCT Level 3 Certificate in Anatomy, Physiology & Pathology may be more suitable.
What's the Difference Between the Award and Certificate?
The Level 3 Award covers anatomy and physiology and includes one theory examination.
The Level 3 Certificate in Anatomy, Physiology & Pathology includes additional pathology learning, examination and coursework requirements.
We recommend checking which qualification you need before enrolling.
Do I Have to Complete Case Studies or Practical Assessments?
No. This is a theory-based qualification.
There are no practical treatment assessments or client case studies.
How Am I Assessed?
You'll complete one VTCT multiple-choice theory examination covering anatomical and physiological knowledge of body systems.
Where Will I Take My Exam?
Your examination takes place in person at our Bideford, North Devon training centre.
Can I Choose My Exam Date?
Your examination appointment will be discussed and arranged during your induction video call, subject to availability.
Do You Offer an Online Examination Option?
Yes. We also offer a separate online version of this qualification with remote live-invigilated examination arrangements.
If you'd prefer not to travel to Bideford, please explore our online examination option before enrolling.
Do I Have to Attend Monthly Online Lessons?
No. Your course is self-paced, and there are no compulsory live teaching sessions.
Optional monthly live online support sessions are available if you'd like additional guidance or revision support.
Will I Need to Buy Any Books?
You don't need to purchase additional textbooks to access your online course.
However, you may find anatomy and physiology textbooks, colouring books or other revision resources helpful.
Can I Study This Course While Working Full-Time?
Yes. Your online learning can be completed around your work and personal commitments.
You'll only need to attend Bideford for your scheduled examination appointment.
Can I Progress Onto Massage or Complementary Therapy Training?
Potentially, yes.
Anatomy and physiology knowledge is required within many professional therapy qualifications.
However, entry requirements and recognition of prior learning vary, so please check with your intended training provider or awarding organisation.
Can I Work as a Therapist After Completing This Course?
Not with this qualification alone.
This is a theory-based qualification and does not qualify you to carry out practical therapy treatments.
You'll need appropriate practical treatment qualifications, competence and insurance before offering professional treatments.
Can I Use This Qualification Towards Another VTCT Course?
It may be possible for previously achieved learning to be recognised, depending on the qualification and unit requirements.
Recognition of prior learning is not automatic. Where applicable, the awarding organisation will need to confirm that your previous unit achievement meets the relevant requirements.
Ready to Understand the Human Body?
Whether you're preparing for a career in massage, complementary therapies or beauty, or simply want to develop your understanding of anatomy and physiology, this qualification provides a recognised foundation for your next steps.
VTCT Level 3 Award in Anatomical and Physiological Knowledge of Body Systems (VRQ)
🏆 Ofqual-Regulated Qualification
💻 Flexible Online Theory Learning
📍 In-Person Examination in Bideford
📚 No Previous Qualifications Required
🧠 Explore Nine Major Body Systems
📝 One VTCT Theory Examination
💬 Optional Live Online Tutor Support
🎓 Supports Progression into Further Therapy Training
Ready to get started?
Enrol today and begin building your understanding of the human body.
Insurance
Please check your insurance companies requirements before enrolling on this course? (It is the students responsibility to check coverage with their insurers BEFORE enrolling on this course)
We recommend you hold student insurance while studying this course to cover you while practicing &/or when carrying out case studies (where applicable).
We recommend you hold student insurance while studying this course to cover you while practicing &/or when carrying out case studies (where applicable).
- If you already have therapist insurance - You should be able to add this therapy onto your current insurance
If you do not have therapist insurance - You can take out student insurance while practicing, and top this up to therapist insurance when qualified. You can take out student insurance for around £25 which will cover you for up to 12 months. For more information and aa list of recommended insurers - CLICK HERE
Course Lessons
#holistictherapiestrainingacademy
Karen Ashton
Your instructor
Karen Ashton, founder of Holistic Therapies Training Academy and also known as 'The Aromatherapy Geek,' combines her business acumen and passion for holistic wellness to create a thriving training academy. With a background in business ownership, office management, and accounting, Karen meticulously crafts courses that meet industry standards for online, accredited, and VTCT programs. Originally established in Swindon, Wiltshire, the academy flourished after Karen moved to Bideford, Devon, in 2011 for a better work-life balance. Today, she mentors aspiring therapists, helping them achieve professional success while balancing their personal lives. Karen is also an author, vlogger, and course writer, currently working on her second publication, and continues to inspire others.
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