How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
- specialist courses run by private training organisations
College
You could do a college course, which would teach you some of the skills needed to be a podiatry assistant. Courses include:
- healthcare support
- health and social care
- applied science
- biology
- T Level in Health
Many health and social care courses include work placements and this can be a good way to get some experience.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
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Apprenticeship
You could apply to do a Senior Healthcare Support Worker Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
This takes around 2 years to complete and combines training on the job with classroom study.
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
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Work
You could start as a healthcare assistant and learn on the job. You could then move into podiatry through further training and promotion.
Volunteering
Volunteering in the NHS is a good way to get work experience in healthcare. This can be helpful when you apply for jobs or training.
Direct Application
You can apply directly for podiatry assistant roles if you've got relevant skills and experience.
You might need a qualification in a health related subject and experience of working with people in a healthcare setting.
Other Routes
You could be self employed and provide foot care to the general public, rather than work in the NHS.
You could complete training in foot health with The Alliance of Private Sector Practitioners.
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Career tips
You would be expected to have an understanding of how the NHS values would impact your work, if applying for jobs in the NHS.
Further information
You can find out more about becoming a podiatry assistant from the Royal College of Podiatry and Health Careers.