Active Physio's Graduate Program and how it can help you!

As you get closer to graduating university as a physiotherapist (or any other degree), a question you ask yourself when beginning your job search is “where will you pursue your career? Do I want to apply for public or private practice?” It’s a decision everyone faces. 

Prior to starting university, I had several years of experience working in the private industry as a physiotherapy assistant, both in Australia and abroad. Throughout my university studies I was also lucky enough to work as a physiotherapy assistant in the public system. Most of my university student placements were also based in the public sector. Although working as a physiotherapy assistant (opposed to a physiotherapist), all of these experiences combined gave me a great perspective on what each could look like working as a new graduate physiotherapist. For someone who finds it difficult to decide what to have for dinner, the fact that I thoroughly enjoyed both sectors didn’t make my decision easy. However, I finally made the decision to pursue my new graduate years in private practice. 

Whilst I was keen and excited to commence in private practice, I remained somewhat apprehensive as a lot of clinics appeared to be focusing on the business models rather than on the clients. However, within a few days of working at Active Physiotherapy, I realised this was not the case here - at Active Physiotherapy the primary focus is on the clients and their families which I found really reassuring.       

“At Active Physiotherapy the primary focus is on the clients and their families which I found really reassuring.”    

Having worked full-time hours in private practice prior to study, I expected my new grad year to be busy and tiring. To assist with the transition into the full-time workload, the new graduate program commenced with training on clinical processes allowing a smooth transition into the workplace environment and enabling me to gradually build my clientele (as opposed to having a full client list from day one). The new graduate program has also included regular one on one mentorship, weekly tutorials and team meetings, flexibility and support in work hours and professional development. As a new grad it is quite common to feel like “you know nothing”, however university can’t teach you everything. The new graduate program really opens up opportunities to learn from others, especially those with lots of experience which I think is particularly important and valuable in our profession. I have been presented with a variety of opportunities including clinical appointments, calvary hospital work, teaching clinical and mat pilates and supporting external partners such as Southern Sports Academy. Although not limited to the above, these experiences have helped develop my confidence and professional skills in different areas of physiotherapy, along with building strong networks within the community. 

Despite having a lot to take in and a lot to learn from day one, my new graduate year has been a lot of fun. There has definitely been some ups and downs (as with any job), however, all staff have been very supportive to ensure I have settled comfortably within the workplace. Although we all take our profession/care for our clients seriously, the team is great at supporting each other ensuring we all get the right work/life balance. Social activities such as staff ski trips are organised annually, staff are flexible to cover annual leave and there is always plenty of banter that goes on behind closed doors. It is definitely a busy, constant therefore demanding and tiring profession, however, with the right support and guidance, it is made somewhat easier to refill your own cup and prevent yourself from running on empty. 

I believe Active Physiotherapy’s new graduate program lived up to my expectations and more. I can highly recommend this program not only due to the support of the staff, but most importantly because the partners of Active Physiotherapy are also very inviting and receptive to feedback in all areas of work. I am happy to talk to any new graduates who may be thinking of applying. 

Rhiannon Hitchens.