Frontline editorial ⁠– student special

Welcome to the September issue of Frontline and a huge welcome to our new students and apprentices.

I’m Martin Smith, a final year student at the University of Brighton and member of the CSP’s student reference group’s (SRG) and it’s my pleasure to introduce this special student edition.

We are in interesting times globally and the future physiotherapy workforce has never been more important. Though, as this issue highlights, we need to adapt as a profession.Our main feature looks at how placements are changing to meet the needs of our pandemic present and our new tomorrow. Having just completed a virtual MSK placement, I am excited to see how these new ways of working develop our communication skills and autonomy.

Do check the resources section for recommendations by the SRG’s new learning and development officers and our infographic on staying connected while studying. There’s also a viewpoint from MSc student Rebecca on how she has used her CSP membership so far.

There is plenty to get involved in. Check out your regional and diversity networks and the exciting plans for the first online Physiotherapy UK conference! I am also pleased to announce that the new SRG (12 student members who champion student needs and lead on student-facing activities) begin their roles this month.I urge you to follow @thecspstudents on Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to the Students iCSP forum to find out what we are planning for the next year. This is also a great way to network with and learn and find support from fellow students and physios.

Lastly, I must give thanks to all the members of last year’s SRG, which I have chaired, as their passion and dedication (in particular in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic) was evident in all they did.

To all our new readers – enjoy physiotherapy and all it has to offer. I look forward to speaking to you very soon!