like the others have said, NVQ2 is sufficient if you only plan on doing the treatments covered in that qualification. However, NVQ3 is a much more respected qualification and it includes more detailed theory work as well as more advanced treatments.
Lots of therapists don't consider themselves "fully" qualified until they have NVQ3.
I agree with this,the theory takes another turn of events when you get to level 3.Thought there wasn't much else to learn once I had completed my level 2 and 3 in massage,but Gosh was I wrong.
Level 3 covers,electrolysis,diet,nutrition,spa treatments,electrical treatments,fitness,probably some I have forgotten.The electrical in particular is crucial to understanding the theory behind micro current treatments,i.e non surgical facials,which in a busy salon are one of your biggest incomes.
Yes, you do get in house training for the different non- surgi equipment,that each salon uses but it's very basic training which usually takes a matter of a couple of days to train you up in their moves,brief history of their treatment.
It's NO substitute for the underpinning knowledge that you gain with a level 3.It's the difference between knowing the answer when a client asks you to explain HOW the equipment works and trying to bluff your way through your answer,which without level 3 you ,most certainly would have to do.
We had to have level 2 and swedish body massage level 3 to do level 3.It's a damned hard slog and not for the faint hearted,but I am glad I did it because I feel so much more competent in my knowledge of A&P
