Physiotherapy assistant
Physiotherapy assistants work with patients to manage their condition and improve movement.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As a physiotherapy assistant, you would:
- talk to patients about their treatment plan
- show patients how to use mobility aids
- demonstrate and work through exercises with patients
- monitor progress and update records
- work closely with physiotherapists and other health professionals
Working environment
You could work in an NHS or private hospital, at a health centre or at a client's home.
You may need to wear a uniform.
Career path and progression
With experience and further qualifications, you could:
- become a senior physiotherapy support worker
- train to become an assistant practitioner
- take an accredited degree to qualify as a physiotherapist
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- sensitivity and understanding
- the ability to work well with others
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- to be flexible and open to change
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- customer service skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- knowledge of psychology
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Restrictions and Requirements
You'll need to:
- pass enhanced background checks
- have a first aid certificate
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
You could do a college course, which would teach you some of the skills and knowledge you need in this job. Relevant subjects include:
- Level 2 Certificate in Healthcare Support Services
- Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support
- Level 3 National Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science
Most health and social care courses include work placements, which is a good way for you to get practical experience.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
More Information
You can do a Healthcare Support Worker Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship or a Senior Healthcare Support Worker Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
More Information
You could start as a healthcare assistant and learn on the job, then move into physiotherapy work through further training and promotion.
You might have an advantage when looking for jobs if you have volunteering experience in a healthcare setting.
You can also find volunteering opportunities through The National Council for Voluntary Organisations and Do IT.
You can apply directly for jobs if you've got relevant skills and experience from working in a healthcare or sports exercise setting. Some employers may ask for a qualification in healthcare and GCSE subjects like maths and English.
Career tips
You'll be expected to show an understanding of the NHS values when applying for jobs and apprenticeships.
Further information
You can find out more about how to become a physiotherapy assistant from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy and Health Careers.
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External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.