Job Description

Physiotherapists help people with physical difficulties resulting from injury, disability, age or illness. They will work with patients using various techniques including massage, exercise, hydrotherapy and will advise patients on exercises and other treatments that they can manage themselves.

Entry Requirements

You could become a Physiotherapist by taking a university course, an apprenticeship or you could start as an assistant and study while working.

University

You will need a degree in physiotherapy approved by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy

If you have a degree in another subject, such as 

• biological science
• psychology
• sports science

You may be able to do a 2 year postgraduate course

University entry requirements may vary but for your degree course you will usually need:

• 5 GCSEs grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) or equivalent including English, maths and at least one science
• and 2 or 3 A levels or equivalent including biology 

Apprenticeship

You may be able to do a physiotherapist degree apprenticeship

You will usually need:

• 5 GCSEs grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) or equivalent including English, maths and at least one science
• and 2 or 3 A levels or equivalent preferably including biology 

You can search for student vacancies on the NHS jobs website and Find an Apprenticeship website 

Work based route

You could work as a physiotherapist assistant and take a part time degree whilst working 

Career Tips

You will find it beneficial if you get some paid or unpaid work experience in health or social care before you apply for a course

The following local NHS Trusts may be able to offer you a volunteering opportunity:

NNUH (volunteering)
James Paget University Hospital (volunteering)
Queen Elizabeth Hospital, King's Lynn (volunteering)
East Suffolk & North Essex NHS Trust (volunteering)

Private physiotherapy clinics, nursing homes or sports clinics may also offer work placements.

You will need to register with the Health and Care Professions Council

You can find our further information about becoming a physiotherapist from Health Careers

You'll also need an enhanced background check as you may be working with children and vulnerable adults

Career Path and Progression

You may find it useful to become a member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP).

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.

You could also move into research or teaching.

Related careers you may be interested in:

• Fitness instructor
• Massage therapist
• Osteopath
• Physiotherapy assistant
• Sports physiotherapist

Required Skills

• Patience, empathy and understanding
• Effective communication skills and the ability to be firm yet encouraging
• Good problem solving abilities
• Physical strength and stamina
• A strong interest in the anatomy and a genuine concern for the health and well being of others

Salary Range

£24,214 to £43,772