If you're a recent physiotherapy graduate, here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help make the transition from your studies into work as smooth as possible.
Where are the best places to apply for jobs?
There is no ideal place to apply, it depends on where you want to work, which sector, your interests and how you want your career to develop.
Do you want to be a clinical lead or a consultant or do you want to run your own private practice? And don’t rule out that you could build a career in physiotherapy research or teaching at a university!
When do jobs start getting posted?
This can vary. If you have a particular hospital or service in mind, get in touch to ask when they post their vacancies or if there is a mailing list you can be added to?
How early should I apply?
Windows for applications are often short. There may not be other roles once adverts have gone out for a service, so apply early. Many roles come out at the beginning of the financial year in the NHS (April). Don’t be afraid to ask.
This may be different for private employers.
What if I can’t find a job right away?
It can take time to secure your first physiotherapy role, so try to stay positive and keep building your knowledge and skills. You could:
- Consider opportunities across all four pillars of practice (clinical, leadership, education, and research)
- Volunteer or work in a health or care setting to gain experience
- Use CSP resources to continue your CPD and grow your skills
- Join CSP networks to stay connected and informed
- Attend conferences or local events to broaden your understanding of where physiotherapy can work and discover new opportunities.
- Ask for feedback on past applications or interviews to help you improve
- Look for any roles that help develop transferable skills
Every experience counts. Keep going! And don’t hesitate to reach out for support.
A lot of Band 5 jobs require a driving license, and I don’t have one. Can I still apply?
If a Band 5 physiotherapy role requires a driving licence but you do not have one, it is advisable to contact the employer directly to discuss the requirement. You can ask whether alternative arrangements—such as the use of public transport, cycling, or other travel options—may be acceptable, depending on the nature of the role and service area.
If you are unable to drive due to a disability, this may be covered under the Equality Act 2010, which means the employer has a duty to consider reasonable adjustments. In such cases, you can raise this during the recruitment process and explore whether the role can be adapted to suit your circumstances
Should I disclose my disability at the interview?
You’re disabled under the Equality Act 2010 if you have a physical or mental impairment that has a ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’ negative effect on your ability to do normal daily activities.
An employee does not need a diagnosis to be considered disabled under the Equality Act 2010.
An employer should offer employees and applicants support. This includes making reasonable adjustments.
The type of adjustment required must be decided on an individual basis, but the Equality and Human Rights Commission's Code of Practice on the employment provisions of the Equality Act gives guidance on reasonable adjustments that an employer may typically have to make.
You don’t have to disclose your disability, but you cannot request reasonable adjustments at an interview without disclosure. Adjustments may include receiving questions in advance or having more time for any associated tasks.
I’m disabled – how do I handle assumptions about my abilities during interviews or at work?
Workplaces, including clinical environments, should be inclusive and respectful. You have every right to be treated fairly and recognised for the strengths and insights you bring.
If you feel comfortable, you may choose to mention your disability in your application or interview, especially how your lived experience brings value to patient care or team dynamics. For example, your experiences might help you better understand and empower others.
You are entitled to reasonable adjustments for interviews or the workplace if needed.
If you're a CSP student member, you can seek advice and support. Practising members can also access CSP workplace support.
What should I know or be prepared for before each rotation begins?
As a newly qualified physiotherapist, your team will understand what it’s like to be in your position. They’ll recognise that your student placements may not have covered every rotation, and that your knowledge and experience are still developing.
Once you know which rotation you’re moving into, check if there’s a recommended reading list to help you prepare. Be proactive, speak with your supervisor about any knowledge or experience gaps. This allows them to tailor your induction and provide the right support. If you’ve previously had a placement in that area, the team will reasonably expect you to have a basic understanding of the service and its key practices.
What professional and development support can I expect?
A key starting point is understanding your own learning style and development needs. Once you’ve reflected on these, have open conversations with those who support you, this could be your supervisor, preceptor, peers, or whoever is most appropriate in your setting.
Support looks different for everyone, so it’s important to find what helps you most and to use the opportunities around you. When you start a new role, you’ll usually have an induction, probation, supervision, and appraisals to help you settle in and grow. Remember, it’s okay to speak up and let others know what good supervision and support mean to you.
Support might include preceptorship, supervision, training, or team and peer help. Plus, your CSP membership offers useful advice, resources, webinars, and ways to connect with others. The physiotherapy career framework can also guide you in reflecting, setting goals, and planning your progress throughout your career.
Here are some useful articles from Frontline magazine:
- Supervision and my role – a brief overview of what supervision is and how to ensure you’re properly supported in your role.
- Navigating standards, support and supervision in physiotherapy - the importance of supervision and the different types of support available throughout a physiotherapist’s career.
- Career transition support and preceptorship - what preceptorship is and isn’t and outlines its purpose.