More local students are setting their sights on becoming Chartered Physiotherapists, thanks to a visit from Elite’s Clinical Director, Andy McCrea.

On Thursday 9th February 2023, Andy attended an information evening for students and parents at Waddesdon Church of England School.

This engaging evening event was well attended by students choosing their GCSE and A-level subjects, including a number of future physios in the making!

Andy represented the Elite Physical Medicine team and was able to guide local youngsters and their families through the application process they will go through in order to pursue a career in physiotherapy when they finish school.

Which A Levels do you need to become a Physio?

The typical pathway taken by a student wishing to qualify as a Chartered Physiotherapist, involves a three-year degree course to achieve a BSc in Physiotherapy.

Andy explained that students intending to apply for Physiotherapy degree courses need to study at least two Sciences at A Level, or one Science and Physical Education. Universities typically require grades AAB, but some applicants may be successful with ABB or BBB.

Apprenticeships are another option for students who don’t feel ready to apply to university, or who don’t get the grades required to dive straight into a degree.

Andy said:

“Parents are often interested to learn that in some parts of the UK, Physiotherapy students can have their course fees covered by the NHS. Other forms of financial support, such as bursaries, are available from some institutions where students go on to NHS careers straight after their studies.”

Across Elite Physical Medicine’s multidisciplinary team, there are decades of NHS experience.

Some team members, such Gemma West (Women’s Physiotherapist) and Tim Ashby (Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist), continue to work in the NHS as well as caring for private clients through our clinic.

It’s not just about sport!

Students were grateful for Andy’s advice on what to put into their personal statements when completing their UCAS application.

It is common that students applying for Physiotherapy courses focus heavily on their sporting achievements, which can actually disadvantage them. Andy stressed the importance of researching the broad range of conditions that Physiotherapists treat, including neurological disorders, strokes, Parkinson’s disease, cerebral palsy, and cystic fibrosis, as well as caring for patients who’ve suffered injuries in road traffic accidents.

Budding Physiotherapists also need to demonstrate that they have strong people skills, which is where extracurricular activities, work experience and volunteering can help strengthen their applications.

Andy said:

“It was fantastic to meet so many students who want to go into the Physiotherapy profession. I spoke with some highly motivated and passionate young people, and have committed to creating more work experience opportunities where students from Waddesdon can shadow the team.”