Personal Statement:Physiotherapy

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

I have always loved playing sport and learning about the human body in Biology. GCSE PE gave me the opportunity to learn about the musculoskeletal system and motivated me to study Biology and PE to A level. I have enjoyed learning how the systems of the body work together and I am keen to learn more. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of a science based career that will allow me to put my knowledge into practice. Being able to promote, restore and maintain an individual’s physical, psychological and social well-being through use of massaging, manipulation and other types of therapy has stimulated me to pursue physiotherapy as a career.

How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?

Over the past year I have enjoyed working alongside physiotherapists in three different centres. At The Royal Shrewsbury Hospital, a large district hospital, I saw the full range of facilities; including the limb clinic, where I was impressed by how much difference physiotherapy could make to the quality of life for those who are missing a limb. At a specialised paediatric centre in mid Wales I was privileged to accompany a physiotherapist on house visits where I saw patients ranging from a toddler with Merosin Negative Muscular Dystrophy to a baby with Plagiocephaly. It was fascinating to see children’s behaviour in their own homes. We visited a 5 year old girl who suffers from hydrocephalus. To improve her muscle tone and co-ordination she was being treated through play such as popping bubbles whilst in her upi-stand frame. I was warned before we entered the home that the girl does not usually engage with strangers, however she took to me straight away and did not stop smiling. I found this to be extremely rewarding and this experience further motivated me to become a physiotherapist. I also spent a fascinating afternoon in the gait clinic. My third placement was at a local community hospital. I observed many different conditions and saw acupuncture, hydrotherapy and ultrasound. I was impressed by the role of the physiotherapist and by the wide range of treatments available in a small community hospital.

What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?

Both recreationally and competitively, sport has had a substantial impact on my childhood. I am a Junior Sport Organiser and hold Bronze level with the Junior Sport Trust. At school, netball and football were my main sports and I was captain for my school, club and county teams. As captain, I learned that organisational skills and the ability to motivate and enthuse my fellow team members were equally important. Football is now my main sport; I enjoy the fast pace, concise movements and responding to the situations that arise with focus and determination. I hold a Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and spent 12 months volunteering at my local leisure centre where I assisted with swimming lessons. I was pleased that I was able to develop my communication skills to adapt to each child’s needs. I am a qualified life-guard and have found that the training has helped me to work effectively under pressure. I have learned how to find a good solution to everyday problems and have the ability to stay calm in a crisis. This will be invaluable when I start work placements as a student physiotherapist. For the past 4 years I have been an active member of the Young Farmers Club and this year I have taken on the role of secretary. I enjoy working with the other committee members and acting as a role model to younger YFC members. It is very important that they see the committee members as enthusiastic and motivated individuals and I have been grateful for this opportunity to strengthen my leadership skills. I was disappointed with my AS results and the thought that I may not achieve the grades necessary to gain a place on a Physiotherapy course. This has made me even more motivated and has given me increased determination to succeed in my A levels. I am caring and enthusiastic with the ability to motivate others. I am confident that I have the qualities needed to succeed as a physiotherapist.

How personal statements have changed?

The current personal statement format, with three 'scaffolding' questions, was introduced by Ucas in September 2025. This personal statement was submitted before then, using the old essay-style format. It has been carefully edited into the three-question format, with all of the original wording kept.

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