STEP: the Student Transition from Education to Practice study for Physiotherapists in the UK

There are challenges for recently qualified physiotherapists in the UK due to current job shortages and work related wellbeing. This e-survey was part one of a two stage study designed to explore and better understand the experiences of physiotherapy students’ transitions from education to employment.

Participants (n=94) were UK adults who had qualified as a physiotherapist from a UK pre-registration programme in the last three years, regardless of whether they were now working within physiotherapy. After providing informed consent, participants were invited to complete an online, anonymous e-survey utilising open and closed questions. The research team worked with Nifty Fox to produce the script of the animation and infographic which Nifty Fox designed and created and are available for free download.

Findings highlighted that there are currently limited opportunities to start work in the NHS: “The expectations transitioning from student to graduate should be adjusted, in this climate finding a job is not guaranteed. Uni should prepare us for this better and prepare for all types of physiotherapy work not just clinical NHS work.” Many respondents felt unprepared, unsupported and untrained in applying for jobs and attending interviews. Nearly a quarter were unhappy in their current role or were planning to leave the profession. Others planned to emigrate or start a private practice in the short term future. Participants enjoyed their job although not everyone felt confident and prepared for practice. Feelings of stress within the last month were common. Support was appreciated but not always present.

We are now carrying out stage 2 of this research: in-depth qualitative interviews with participants to further explore this area of concern for the workforce.

Ethics approval: University of Hertfordshire - Health, Science, Engineering and Technology Ethics Committee with Delegated Authority, protocol number 2060 SF HSET 2026.