How to become a physiotherapy assistant
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
College
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 Work Preparation for Health and Social Care
- Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Skills for Health and Social Care
- Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science
Most health and social care courses include work placements, which is a good way for you to get 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
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Apprenticeship
You can do an intermediate apprenticeship as a health care support worker, or advanced apprenticeship as a senior healthcare support worker.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
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Work
You could start as a healthcare assistant and learn on the job, then move into physiotherapy work through further training and promotion.
Volunteering
You'll find it useful to get some paid or voluntary experience in a healthcare setting or personal care role.
You could also contact the voluntary services co-ordinator at your local NHS trust for advice about opportunities.
Private physiotherapy clinics, nursing homes and sports clinics may also offer work placements.
Direct Application
You can apply directly for jobs if you've got relevant skills and experience from working in a healthcare setting.
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Career tips
When applying for courses and jobs, you'll be expected to have an understanding of how NHS values apply in your work.
Further information
You can find out more about becoming a physiotherapy assistant from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy and Health Careers.