Physiotherapy, anyone else?

[Thirtiesphysio]

Any physios on here? I'm a mature student at 33 and about to start the second year of a physiotherapy degree. First of all, I've absolutely loved the first year and I find the academic side of it manageable. I'm apprehensive about placements though. Last year I only had one and it was research based, whereas this year there will be two clinical placements. The last time I worked in a hospital setting (a long time ago) as a HCA I honestly didn't enjoy it and found bullying to be rife, admittedly I was part of the nursing team, whereas there seemed to be more camaraderie amongst members of the therapy team. Does anyone have experience of what the placements are like and the best way to do well/make a good impression etc?

The second concern I have is about work after qualifying. I understand that most newly qualified physios do a full time rotational post, whereas I would rather work a part time static band 5 post and do the MSc part time, or take a year out and do the masters full time before entering work. Do these seem like realistic options?

Thanks in advance!

Can I ask why you would need to do a masters?

I don't need to, I just really want to get on and achieve the masters (probably in MSK) both for the sense of achievement and also to improve my future prospects for better paying roles/private work if I wanted. I realise I'll still need experience starting as a band 5 regardless.

There are static MSK physio roles out there for band 5s, not as common as rotational posts.
As regards doing a Masters it would probably be worth getting some clinical time in first to find out areas you really enjoy. Some seniors I know have been able to get some funding towards doing masters and PhDs so that might also be worth considering.
Regarding your placements go with an open mind but do some reading around the area you’ll be working in. Likely you will have some educators that are significantly younger than you. Also, therapists LOVE food- we always seem to have shared lunches, snacks in the office, cake during team meetings. Hope you enjoy your placements.

Hi, physio here. I retrained at 32 and have now been qualified over 10 years. I love it. My first job was rotations, but I only did a year as I knew msk was what I wanted to specialise in. I then got a static msk b5 then b6. I would recommend doing some rotations as it really does add to your over all experience and make you a better physio. I know my trust won't employ graduates straight into a static post, I think other trusts are the same.
With regards to the masters. I would absolutely say to consider this after a few years working. You need the clinical experience and to apply your degree knowledge first. In fact some masters require a number of years static employment (masters in msk, I think require 5 years experience). Just in case you are looking at the wrong masters, a lot of universities offer a 2 year msc in physio, which is basically a fast track physio degree. Lots of sports therapists,sports science graduates may do this to then gain the title of physiotherapist. As you are doing a physio degree, you wouldn't do this msc. Hope that makes sense. Post grad masters are usually titled advanced physio, or msk or advanced practitioner as you do this to advance your existing clinical experience.
With regards to placements and bullying. Physios are generally a wonderful supportive bunch, so I would really hope you do not have any negative experiences. However politics can be rife on wards and different team dynamics etc. Msk out patients, I've never had a bad experience. However if you have any problems talk to your educator or university because it is in absolutely no way acceptable.
All the very best for your 2nd year. It's a tough degree, but will be really worth it 😀 I hope your placements go well!
Sorry that was long, but if you have any questions I'm happy to help if I can xxx

Thank you so much for taking the time to comment - that is incredibly helpful and I will definitely bear all of that in mind 😊