You could do a college course, which would teach you some of the skills and knowledge you need in this job. Relevant subjects include:

• Level 2 Certificate in Healthcare Support Services
• Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support
• Level 3 National Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science

Most health and social care courses include work placements, which is a good way for you to get practical experience.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

You can do a Healthcare Support Worker Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship or a Senior Healthcare Support Worker Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

You could start as a healthcare assistant and learn on the job, then move into physiotherapy work through further training and promotion.

You might have an advantage when looking for jobs if you have volunteering experience in a healthcare setting.

You can also find volunteering opportunities through The National Council for Voluntary Organisations and Do IT.

You can apply directly for jobs if you've got relevant skills and experience from working in a healthcare or sports exercise setting. Some employers may ask for a qualification in healthcare and GCSE subjects like maths and English.

You'll need:

• sensitivity and understanding
• the ability to work well with others
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• to be flexible and open to change
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• customer service skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• knowledge of psychology
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks
• have a first aid certificate

As a physiotherapy assistant, you would:

• talk to patients about their treatment plan
• show patients how to use mobility aids
• demonstrate and work through exercises with patients
• monitor progress and update records
• work closely with physiotherapists and other health professionals

You could work in an NHS or private hospital, at a health centre or at a client's home.

You may need to wear a uniform.