Our students

Why Teesside University?

Teesside is my local University and I visited often at a young age through my sporting activities. After visiting the University open day I was very impressed with both the facilities and the expertise of the clinicians who teach here. This was the only university I visited with its own hydrotherapy pool.

Teesside University is also closely linked with James Cook University Hospital which is one of the best teaching hospitals in the UK and I have been extremely privileged to complete all my placements here.

Why physiotherapy?

As an ex-international footballer I had a lot of contact with the team physiotherapists both in this country and abroad. I learnt that being a physiotherapist involves science, sport and medicine along with exercise and wellbeing – all areas that I am passionate about.

A career that is constantly progressing is a challenge to me. I had undertaken work experience in James Cook University Hospital as a volunteer on various wards where I gained a great insight into the role of a physiotherapist within neurology, cardiorespiratory and musculoskeletal. Observing the role showed me how rewarding this discipline is and this continued to motivate me to follow my dream of becoming a physiotherapist.

Tell us more about your course

The best thing about the course is that it provides you with a good balance of classroom teaching, self-study time and placements within local hospitals and private sectors. The knowledge gained in the classroom can be put into practice during placements to improve a patient’s quality of life which is a very valuable experience.

I have enjoyed the variety of modules and was impressed that one of the lecturers was previously a physiotherapist for the Great British Olympics team. I also enjoyed the foundations module as it was very hands on and focused on all aspects of physiotherapy; respiratory conditions such as Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchiectasis and asthma, neuro conditions such as strokes, MS and Parkinson’s, and musculoskeletal conditions such as frozen shoulder, anterior knee pain and osteoarthritis.

What other opportunities has Teesside University given you?

I’ve had so many opportunities. I have become an intern physiotherapist working under supervision at Middlesbrough Ladies Football Club and The Future Champions Programme. I have volunteered as a sports massage practitioner at the Great North Run. Last summer I helped out at a disability summer camp which was ran by the University. I have also become a student physiotherapy buddy at open days for the University.

More recently I was given the amazing opportunity to attend an International Sports Medicine Conference in Barcelona. Visiting Camp Nou in Barcelona has always been an aim of mine. Attending a Sports Medicine Conference with Barcelona FC’s physiotherapists, doctors and surgeons was a dream come true. I learnt all about regenerative and surgical treatments, return to play, cadaver imaging, epidemiology, injury mechanisms, diagnostic classifications and rehabilitation programmes. It was an amazing educational experience.

I am also a member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy and the Physiotherapy Society.

Would you recommend Teesside University?

Yes, definitely. I have gained great experience through the facilities that the University offer. In addition to the great knowledge and support provided by the tutors. I’ve been provided with many great opportunities which provides essential experience for being work ready.