Physiotherapist Joana Rodrigues gives Connect Health's fast-track graduate scheme the thumbs-up

Physiotherapist Joana Rodrigues is building a successful career in the musculoskeletal (MSK) field after completing an 18-month graduate development programme with Connect Health last year.

Now the Newcastle-upon-Tyne based community services provider is seeking 30 ambitious physiotherapy, sports therapy and osteopathy graduates to join its 2023 programme, which originally set up in 2010.

Having extra continuous professional development (CPD) time and training – provided by Connect Health – while having my own patients and earning money at the same time was really appealing [Joana Rodrigues]

Originally from Portugal, Joana, 25, lives in Nottingham and works with the Lincolnshire Pain Services team. As well as managing patient assessment reviews and facilitating pain management programmes, she recently supported the launch of a new pain service in Oxfordshire.

Joana describes the graduate programme as a ‘cross between learning, while working, [which] is ideal for a new graduate’. ‘The opportunity to continue to learn and develop my skills whilst working independently was what most attracted me to the programme.'

Joana added: 'Having extra continuous professional development (CPD) time and training – provided by Connect Health – while having my own patients and earning money at the same time was really appealing.’

New recruits to the scheme spend the first four months on the graduate development programme, after which they enter an accelerated development programme. They benefit from first-class, work-based training with a senior clinical mentor from day one and protected CPD time.

Ethos of creating ‘exemplary patient outcomes’

Split between self-directed learning via Connect Health’s learning division – known as the Academy – and monthly face-to-face study days with a member of the Academy faculty team, including clinical practitioners and clinical team leads, the progressive coaching is based on Connect Health’s ethos of creating ‘exemplary patient outcomes’.

The scheme boasts a 90 per cent pass rate, and those who complete the scheme are promoted to senior MSK clinician posts within 18 months. Roles are available in various parts of England, with many of them based in Hertfordshire, Essex and London.

Steve Nawoor, Connect Health's national clinical lead, said: ‘Our one-of-a-kind graduate scheme proves immensely popular every year, thanks to our fast-track promotions to senior clinician level, the clinical quality of the programme, impressive remuneration package and Connect Health’s standing as an industry leader in MSK.'

He added: ‘With our forward-thinking clinical philosophy, we’re pioneering MSK initiatives that are key to NHS England’s Best MSK and NHS Plan programmes.’

For more information on the programme and to apply, visit: https://www.connecthealth.co.uk/opportunities/#

 To find out more about Connect Health, visit: https://www.connecthealth.co.uk