Apprenticeship plan moves a step closer

CSP members are encouraged to comment on the draft standard that will define future physiotherapy degree apprenticeships. A public consultation on the standard closes on 8 September.

The work-based degree programme could be available to apprentices from September 2018 if the plans get the go-ahead in time.

‘It’s really important CSP members look at the draft standard and comment,’ said Sally Gosling, a CSP assistant director. ‘Once approved, it will form the national standard for apprenticeships providing an entry route into the profession.

Equity

`It’s essential that the standard and future physiotherapy degree apprenticeships fulfil the high education and professional standards of the profession,’ said Dr Gosling. ‘We also want to ensure they uphold the quality of the learning experience, and that the degree apprenticeship achieves equity with other entry routes.’

She said it was very positive to see that the draft standard states that each BSc (Hons) physiotherapy degree that underpins the apprenticeship must secure CSP accreditation, as well as HCPC approval.

‘This should give the CSP significant influence, enabling us to assure the breadth, depth and quality of apprentices’ learning experience and outcomes,’ said Dr Gosling.

Contemporary practice

‘At this stage, CSP members should feedback on whether the draft standard reflects contemporary physiotherapy practice,’ Dr Gosling added.`The standard needs to reflect the changing needs of patients, service delivery and workforce. How far does it capture what new graduates need to know, understand and do as they enter the profession?’ asked Dr Gosling.

The CSP has been on the trailblazer group that has developed the standard, along with representatives of physiotherapy employers and universities.

What next?

The next step is for a sub-group to produce the assessment plan for the apprenticeship. Once fully developed, the standard and plan will be submitted for formal approval through the Institute for Apprenticeships. It will then be up to employers and education providers to develop physiotherapy degree apprenticeship programmes.

Apprenticeships are also being developed to support advanced clinical practitioner development (at Master’s degree level) and for the support worker workforce.