Physiotherapist

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Physiotherapists work with patients to improve their range of movement, and promote health and well-being.

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role

 

University

You can do a degree in physiotherapy approved by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.

You may be able to do a 2-year postgraduate course if you’ve got a degree in a relevant subject like:

  • biological science
  • psychology
  • sports science

Entry Requirements

You’ll usually need:

  • 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including biology for a degree
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

 

Apprenticeship

You can do a physiotherapist degree apprenticeship.

Entry Requirements

You’ll usually need:

  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, preferably including biology, for a degree apprenticeship

 

Work: You could work as a physiotherapy assistant and study part time for a degree to qualify.

 

You’ll need the following skills:

  • knowledge of medicine and dentistry
  • sensitivity and understanding
  • to enjoy working with other people
  • customer service skills
  • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
  • analytical thinking skills
  • knowledge of psychology
  • to be flexible and open to change
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

 

You’ll need to pass enhanced background checks, as you may be working with children and vulnerable adults.

Your day-to-day tasks may include:

  • help patients with spine and joint problems
  • help patients recover from accidents, sports injuries and strokes
  • work with children who have mental or physical disabilities
  • help older people with physical problems become more mobile

 

With experience you could become self-employed and set up your own practice.

In the NHS, you could progress to senior physiotherapist or move into health service management.  You could also specialise in an area like orthopaedics, sports therapy, occupational health, or working with older people or children.

The following salaries are a guide only:

  • Starter: £24,907
  • Experienced: £44,503

 

Working Conditions

  • You could work at a hospice, at a client’s home, at a GP practice, at an adult care home, in an NHS or private hospital or at a fitness centre.
  • You may work unsocial hours.

Additional Information

Next Steps SW

Health and Care Professions Council

Chartered Society of Physiotherapy

Health Careers

National Health Careers

 

 

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