Physiotherapist

Physiotherapists work with patients to improve their range of movement, and promote health and wellbeing.

Typical Salary

£24,907 To £44,503

Typical Hours

35 to 40 a week
9am to 5pm on a rota

How To Become a Physiotherapist

You can get into this job through:

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

College / University

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

  • biological science
  • psychology
  • sports science
  • 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.

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

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


    Other Routes

    Other Routes are not listed for this job.

    Skills And Knowledge

    You'll need:

    • 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

    Day To Day Tasks

    Examples of day-to-day tasks, you could do:

    • 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

    Working Environment

    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.

    Career Path & Progression

    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.

    There are opportunities for physiotherapists in the armed forces. You can find out more at:

    You could also move into research or teaching.

    Volunteering Opportunities

    You'll find it helpful to get some paid or voluntary experience in health or care work before you apply for a course.

    You could contact the voluntary services co-ordinator at your local NHS trust for advice about opportunities.

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

    Tips & Information

    Registration

    Professional and industry bodies

    You can join the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy for professional development and networking opportunities.

    Further information

    You can find out more about physiotherapy careers from Health Careers and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.

    Restrictions & Requirements

    You'll need to:

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