IIR Bridging Course
Our Bridging Courses are run across the UK regions and cater for each individual enquiry depending on previous qualifications and experience. This means that each Bridging Student will work individually with an IIR tutor to identify the areas of the course material they need to attend and once this has been established a learning plan will be put into place and required attendance to the relevant sections of the course will be agreed. This is done on an individual basis depending on each individuals requirements. Potential Bridging Students should contact the tutor of the region most suitable to their location to discuss their individual requirements.
Overall Aim:
To educate and train qualified reflexologists in the practical techniques of the Original Ingham Method® of Reflexology as applied to the feet and hands.
To provide a basic knowledge of anatomy and physiology to a competence level commensurate with the efficient and safe practice of foot and hand reflexology and enveloping the interdependence and balanced working of the body systems listed under the sub-headings below.
The Course:
- 6 months duration
- Leads to an International Institute of Reflexology® Diploma
- Graduates are eligible to join as a full member of the Association of Reflexologists and use the letters IIR MAR
- IIR Graduates with AoR full membership are recognised by all major insurance companies, the NHS and many private healthcare companies.
Introduction:
The history of reflexology. What is reflexology?
Do’s and Don’ts of the therapy
Anatomy of the foot and of the hand
Natural health philosophy and practices, ie. where reflexology fits amongst other therapies
Relationship between anatomy, physiology and reflex areas relative to reflexology of the feet and hands
Basic techniques and relaxation techniques applied to the feet and to the hands
Anatomy & Physiology:
The following body systems are studied. There are study handouts for each topic:
Digestive system, Immune/Lymphatic system, Central nervous system and autonomic nervous system, Endocrine System
Urinary and reproductive systems, Musculoskeletal system, Sensory system, Cardiovascular system, Respiratory system
Additional Topics:
Hygiene
Chiropody for reflexologists
An introduction to nutrition
An introduction to dermatology
Tax planning for private practice
Marketing and public relations
Starting a private practice – public liability/professional indemnity – why it is essential, typical costs, quality of cover etc.
Practical Training:
Great emphasis is placed upon the acquisition of the correct holds and thumb and finger techniques that, together, form the Original Ingham Method® The Institute’s tutors are the only people licensed to teach this method – to safeguard its originality.
At each seminar, approximately half the time or more is spent perfecting these practical aspects of competent reflexology treatment. The tutor/student ratio does not exceed 1:10 – to enable personal attention to be given at all times.
Students are encouraged to buy Dwight Byers’ instruction DVD’s I and II which provide a ‘home tutor’ backup between attendance at the respective seminars.
What is Required of You:
We require your genuine desire to improve the health and the quality of life of other people through Reflexology. You will have to study anatomy and physiology and the skills and techniques of the therapy. The study is broken down into a step-by-step approach that assumes no previous knowledge, although applicants with a nursing background are especially welcome.
Our standards are high and training requires time and commitment. The Institute is keen to sustain a long-established, excellent reputation. The tuition is designed for the person who aspires to reach the highest standards of a true professional. Training combines intensive hard work with rewarding enjoyment and satisfaction.
Attendance at 50 tuition hours, one/two-day seminars spread over six months. (Note that some courses are held over weekends, others are held over individual one-day seminars either during the week or at a weekend).
Attendance at a one-day First Aid Certificate course (“Appointed Person” level)
4-5 hours of home study per week
3 case studies are submitted for assessment
60 Client studies (all written up)
2 hour written examination at the end of the course
1 hour practical/oral examination at the end of the course
Our minimum pass mark is 80%. Our standards are high and the training intensive, but our reputation is second to none. Our tuition is designed for those who aspire to reach the highest standards of a true professional. Training combines intensive hard work with rewarding enjoyment.
Minimum entry age is 18 year. There is no upper age limit.
IIR graduates can become full members of the AoR and are eligible for entry onto the NHS Register of Reflexologists, used by Primary Care Trusts.




