The Principal of the Institute, Elizabeth McGinnes, has been an educational advisor, lead moderator and external verifier for the U.K. Government Department of Education’s Business and Technician Education Council in the United Kingdom and has an excellent international reputation in designing, setting up and moderating programs in Complementary Therapies.  From 1992 to 1994 she was chairperson of the Education and Training Committee of the Aromatherapy Organizations Council and was responsible for the production of the UK National Core Curriculum in Clinical Aromatherapy which includes Massage & Bodywork, Anatomy & Physiology, Aromatherapy, Pathology, Counseling, Financial Planning and Business Studies. 

She has been involved in Further and Higher Education since 1974 and has a London University Postgraduate Certificate in Education.  She has many years of teaching experience nationally and internationally, in disciplines such as Spa and Salon Management, Clinical Aromatherapy, Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork.  She is also a qualified Electrologist, Trichologist, Hypnotherapist, Psychotherapist and Counselor.

The Institute of Professional Therapies was developed as a result of her desire to further the interests of Complementary Therapies nationally and internationally through higher education.  Its programs of continuing education are open to any qualified students/therapists wishing to extend his or her knowledge and skills.

All Staff Instructors have been trained to teach, have had a minimum of two years experience and have an up to date knowledge and continuing study in their subject area. Massage & Bodywork Instructors have completed at least 500 hours training and are certified by NCBTMB. Aromatherapy Instructors are certified by relevant professional bodies and have received a minimum of 500 hours training.