Physiotherapy Degree Apprenticeship BSc (Hons)

Part 1

Human Anatomy and Physiology

Excellent knowledge and understanding of the human body and its function is essential for a career in physiotherapy. This year-long module will cover the whole musculoskeletal system, nervous system and cardiovascular system. Innovative teaching techniques and digital technology enhances the learning experience.

Academic and Professional Development

This module facilitates your transition to higher education through a structured delivery of academic study skills relating specifically to your physiotherapy programme. The scope of the module will extend beyond that of lectures and will invite you to play a central role in your own academic development aided by online screencasts and virtual classrooms. Study skills will focus on written English and maths specific to physiotherapy, scientific enquiry and towards improving achievement.

Health across the Lifespan

This engaging module looks at the human lifespan and the challenges that occur from a physiotherapy perspective, from embryonic development, birth and early childhood development, through to adolescent biological and emotional maturity. Adulthood brings many changes to our bodies, from maximal fitness to cancer, life-limiting diseases and fluctuating mental health. The ageing process is complex and poses many challenges as we struggle to maintain independence and what happens when we can no longer care for ourselves. The biomedical, behavioural, physical and social science bases of physiotherapy practice are investigated in this fast-moving module.

Musculoskeletal Studies I

This module introduces basic skills in musculoskeletal assessment, including the assessment of joints, muscles and ligaments, developing clinical reasoning skills based on functional anatomical knowledge. You will get to practise your manual techniques, including handling skills, positioning and accessory movements. Manual therapy will be introduced and you will have the opportunity to practise this in our open access teaching rooms.

Part 2

Neurological Studies I

This includes an introduction to physiotherapy approaches to enhance movement and minimise impairment in a range of neurological conditions. You will gain understanding of life-long conditions and the complex management required. You will learn basic assessment and rehabilitation skills through practical lessons and taught sessions. The impact of neurological conditions will be discussed through the perspective of the patient, their families and from society as a whole.

Cardiovascular and Respiratory Studies I

Prevention and healthy living will be promoted in this empowering module. Many medical conditions are a result of unhealthy lifestyles. This module will look at the health of our surrounding communities, touching on inequalities in health and services available to support people potentially at risk of developing cardiovascular and respiratory conditions. Accompanying this, you will gain knowledge and insight into cardiovascular pathologies and respiratory conditions, learning the key skills in assessment and management of conditions.

Musculoskeletal Studies II

Your skills will be further developed from the previous musculoskeletal module. You will be using clinical reasoning skills to further develop your assessment, treatment and rehabilitation knowledge and learn to apply this knowledge to a range of case scenarios. You will extend your knowledge and understanding of more complex presentations, utilising the biopsychosocial approach to optimise the impact of physiotherapy interventions. A person-centred approach is embedded into these interventions, which is essential to prepare you for your practice placements.

Research for Physiotherapists

As the 21st century progresses and we move ever further into a digital age, having the knowledge and skills to navigate this area is vital to be an effective practitioner. This research module is based on the Topol Review, which will ensure students have a good knowledge of the digital future and will form the basis for the research project that will be taken in the final year. It aims to develop analytical thought through a range of research processes, allowing students to increase their appreciation of scientific and clinically-based research methods. Furthermore, this module aims to develop students’ critical thought of current research and practice and consider how the digital future will change the experiences of the service user.

Part 3

Complexity in Physiotherapy Practice

This module continues to build upon your neurological physiotherapy skills. You will refine your therapeutic handling and learn about patient journeys faced by people affected by permanent impairment from neurological damage. You will utilise case studies and problem-solving skills to encourage professional thinking ‘outside the box’. You will be looking at opportunities for children and people with life-limiting neurological conditions in our local communities and reviewing access to these services, enabling education and employment when appropriate.

Cardiovascular and Respiratory Studies II

This module continues to look at the management of patients with conditions affecting the heart and lungs. This revealing module explores aspects of palliative care, as well as reviewing the management of the unwell patient in the intensive care setting. You will develop skills suitable for working in the acute setting using our simulation facilities, practising your respiratory management in a safe and engaging environment.

Research Project for Apprentice Physiotherapists

This is a key project which will develop independent learning, problem-solving, analysis and data presentation skills. Learners will deepen their knowledge in a selected area of the Topol Report and apply it to the profession by choosing an area to be explored. This may be a review of a healthcare service, a clinical audit or a number of journal submissions on the same topic All methods are supported by an additional poster presentation.

End-point Assessment Module: Physiotherapy – The Future

This module focuses on the end-point assessment and is a must pass module. It ensures that the learner has developed the appropriate standard of knowledge, skills and behaviours to be a safe, effective and well-rounded qualified physiotherapist. It utilises a range of assessment approaches to examine thoroughly how well the learner has developed over the course of their apprenticeship. This module will be graded in accordance with the end-point assessment plan for Physiotherapist (integrated Degree) Apprenticeship standard as issued by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.

Teaching and assessment

Teaching

In light of COVID-19, we have made some changes to the way we deliver our teaching. We are continually following the guidelines and measures put in place by the UK Government to ensure our students and staff are safe on campus, whilst remaining committed to providing high-quality education. The information below explains how teaching will take place in semester 2 (or semester 1 for those joining us in January) for each level/year of this course.

• Level 4

Assessment

Assessment formats include:

• Practical exams
• OSCEs (Objective Structured Clinical Examinations)
• Written multiple choice questions
• Written assignments

You will also be required to evidence your skills in the workplace. Alongside your e-portfolio, you will be observed in practice by a workplace mentor who will assess you against the apprenticeship standard.

Our teaching and assessment is underpinned by our Teaching, Learning and Assessment Strategy 2015-2020.