PHYSIOTHERAPY DEGREE APPRENTICESHIP

This module provides students with an in-depth understanding of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, focusing on their relevance to physiotherapy practice. Through a blend of theoretical teaching, practical workshops, and simulation-based scenarios, students will develop the clinical reasoning skills necessary to assess, treat, and rehabilitate patients with cardio-respiratory dysfunction across a range of healthcare settings. Students will explore the anatomy and physiology of the cardio-respiratory system and apply this knowledge to real-life patient cases. They will learn to identify signs and symptoms of dysfunction in both acute and chronic conditions, select appropriate treatment strategies, and evaluate outcomes using evidence-based approaches. The module also emphasises the importance of person-centred care, encouraging students to consider the psychological, emotional, social, cultural, and environmental factors that influence patient management. By critically engaging with current research, students will be equipped to integrate evidence into their clinical decision-making and physiotherapy intervention.

This module develops students’ understanding of the MSK system and its role in movement, assessment, and rehabilitation, focusing on the assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of MSK conditions across the body. Through a blend of theoretical learning and practical simulation, students will develop essential clinical reasoning and hands-on skills to support their professional development. Students will explore the relationship between anatomy, physiology, and movement, and apply this knowledge to real-world clinical scenarios. They will learn to identify signs and symptoms of both acute and chronic MSK dysfunctions, select appropriate treatment interventions, and evaluate outcomes effectively. The module also emphasises the importance of person-centred care, encouraging students to adapt their approach in response to the psychological, emotional, social, cultural, and environmental needs of service users. In addition, students will critically engage with current research to inform evidence-based physiotherapy practice.

This module provides students with a deeper understanding of the neurological system and its role in movement, function, and rehabilitation. Students will learn to assess and treat a range of neurological conditions, exploring both acute and long-term presentations. Through a combination of theoretical study and simulated practice, students will develop clinical reasoning and decision-making skills essential for effective neurological physiotherapy. The module also emphasises the integration of evidence-based practice into everyday clinical work, preparing students to deliver safe, effective, and person-centred care. Students will be encouraged to consider the diverse needs of service users, including psychological, emotional, social, cultural, and environmental factors, and adapt their approach accordingly.

This module prepares students to deliver holistic, person-centred care across a range of healthcare settings, with a particular focus on community-based practice in line with evolving NHS priorities. Students will develop the confidence and autonomy to work effectively in diverse environments, including those with limited resources, and support patients from varied socioeconomic backgrounds. Through practical learning and critical engagement with current research, students will enhance their communication, leadership, and teamwork skills—essential for collaborating with healthcare professionals, patients, and caregivers. The module also encourages students to integrate evidence-based practice into their clinical decision-making, ensuring safe, ethical, and effective physiotherapy interventions.

This module is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and critical understanding required to lead effectively within complex and evolving health and social care environments. Through exploration of leadership theories, organisational dynamics, and policy frameworks, students will develop the ability to evaluate leadership approaches, apply evidence-based strategies, and reflect on their own leadership style. Learners will gain insight into how leadership influences patient safety, team performance, and service delivery, while also considering ethical practice, equality, and inclusion. By the end of the module, students will be able to analyse real-world challenges, propose innovative solutions, and demonstrate leadership competencies essential for driving positive change in healthcare settings.

This module equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to explore service development and research within physiotherapy, laying the groundwork for their final-year dissertation. Over the course of the year, students will identify areas of personal and professional interest, allowing them to design a meaningful research or service development proposal. Students will gain a solid understanding of different types and sources of evidence to inform and advance clinical practice. They will critically appraise research principles, methodologies, and ethical considerations, and apply this knowledge to create a proposal that reflects both academic rigour and person-centred values. In addition to developing research literacy, the module fosters leadership skills and encourages students to build a strong sense of professional identity within their chosen specialist area.

This final-year module provides students with the opportunity to undertake an independent research project that explores a topic of relevance to physiotherapy practice, education, or service delivery. Through guided supervision, students will develop and apply research skills, critically engage with evidence, and contribute to the advancement of professional knowledge. Students may choose to conduct an empirical study, a systematic review, or a literature-based investigation. The module supports the development of ethical research practice, analytical thinking, and academic writing, culminating in a formal dissertation.

Practice Based Learning 3 enables you to experience the role of physiotherapists first-hand whilst developing professional, clinical, and interpersonal skills. This is achieved through a range of practice-based learning activities and placements across diverse health and social care settings and in the university.

This module is designed to prepare students for the realities of clinical practice within the modern NHS, focusing on the assessment and management of complex patient presentations in acute inpatient settings. Students will explore the full patient journey—from Emergency Department (ED) and Intensive Critical Care Unit (ICCU) through to hospital discharge—across musculoskeletal (MSK), cardiovascular-respiratory (CVR), and neurological (Neuro) specialisms. Through simulated scenarios and case-based learning, students will consolidate their clinical knowledge and reasoning developed throughout the programme. The module provides a safe and supportive environment for students to refine their physiotherapeutic assessment, treatment, and handling skills before entering professional practice.

This module prepares students for the dynamic and complex nature of physiotherapy within community settings. It focuses on developing holistic, adaptable therapists with advanced clinical reasoning and practical skills, capable of working collaboratively across professional boundaries. Through a blend of theoretical teaching, hands-on practice, and simulation-based learning, students will gain the confidence and competence to deliver safe, effective, and person-centred care across diverse environments—including home-based, outpatient, and community rehabilitation settings.