Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Master of Science Physiotherapy (Pre-registration) Year 1, Level 7, 2023/24 - Course Handbook
Welcome to the Course
Welcome to the MSc Physiotherapy (Pre-registration) course. This handbook provides you with information that you will need on your course. You should find it helpful when you first start, when you are preparing for assessment and at any time that you need help or advice in connection with your studies here. You will also receive a Module Handbook for each module you study on your course.
The course team is looking forward to working with you this year and we hope that your time studying with us at Leeds Beckett University is both enjoyable and successful.
On behalf of our University and the whole course team I would like to wish you well in your studies.
Richard Partner, Course Director
Welcome to your course in the School of Health. I am delighted to be able to welcome our new and returning students and apprentices into the 2023/24 academic year.
The year ahead will contain success, challenge, and personal growth for you, and the School's team of dedicated academics, learning officers and administrators are here to help you to achieve your potential.
Our School has a broad range of disciplines, including Biomedical Sciences, Health Promotion, Nursing and Healthcare, Nutrition and Dietetics, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Psychological Therapies and Mental Health, Safety and Environmental Health, Social and Community Studies and Sports and Exercise Therapy teams. Our academic teams work collaboratively - drawing on each other's expertise to support learning, undertake professional practice and consultancy, and delivery internationally recognised, societally impactful research.
Throughout the year ahead please do take time to let us know what you are enjoying and what you find valuable - but also please let us know if there are things we could do differently to improve your experience through feedback to your Course Director, at the School Forum or through the module evaluation and surveys.
I wish you every success for this academic year!
Dr Duncan Sharp, Dean of School
Leeds Beckett Students' Union (LBSU) is led by students for students! Their mission is to make your uni life better! Your Student Officer Team is elected by you to lead the Students' Union into the academic year. They represent all Leeds Beckett students and campaign for the changes you want to see in the university and beyond. They do this by representing your interests, giving you the chance to socialise and meet new people, hosting CV-boosting opportunities, and providing advice and support when you need it most. Shape your own experience by submitting your thoughts through your Course Rep, or if you'd like to influence the Students' Union's policy stance on particular issues or share ideas for improving the student experience across the University, submit your ideas on the Have Your Say platform, which is designed to make change happen! Below you'll find information on a few of their services but if you've any questions, please feel free to get in touch.
Silas Ozoya, your Academic Experience Officer, also wanted to say a few words to introduce himself: "Hey There! I'm Silas, your Academic Experience Officer. It's my job to ensure your academic experience at Leeds Beckett is the best it can be! We're a friendly and open-minded bunch at LBSU, so don't hesitate to get in touch with us! I'm looking forward to meeting you very soon!"
Contact LBSU at:
Email: lbsu-welcome@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Phone: 0113 812 8400
Website: www.leedsbeckettsu.co.uk
- Following the lifting of all pandemic restrictions and advice from the Department for Education, we currently anticipate that no social distancing measures will be in place on campus during the 2023/24 academic year, enabling a normal on-campus experience. Our aim is to ensure that our students experience Leeds Beckett University, our courses, campuses, facilities and services to the fullest extent possible, while maintaining an environment where students and staff feel safe.
- In all cases, the health and safety of students and staff is our priority and we will continue to follow guidance from the UK Health Security Agency, the Department for Education and all other recognised government agencies (such as the Office for Students) in full and keep matters under close review at all times. The advice and restrictions may change before and/or during the academic year, either nationally or in response to local conditions and rates of infection and include the need for social distancing measures and other restrictions. Our flexible delivery model allows us to revert to a blended and/or remote delivery model if this becomes necessary. In a worst case scenario it is possible our campuses may need to close.
- In the event that delivery is restricted as a consequence of pandemic restrictions, we will keep you informed of planned changes as they arise, to ensure you are provided with accurate information.
Key Contacts & Keeping in Touch
Students will be allocated an Academic Advisor in the first induction session.
Sharon Caden
Email: S.Caden@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Phone number: 0113 812 6784
Office location: Portland Building, room 513, City Campus
Course Representatives are listed on the course group pages in MyBeckett.
The Academic Librarians for this course can be contacted at: sohlibrary@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Or complete their online form for help with academic and research skills: Get Help form
Freedom to Speak up Guardian
See details here: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/health-practice-learning-hub/freedom-to-speak-up/
The contact details of other key services, such as Student Advice, Disability Advice, Student Wellbeing, the Library, Student Money, Careers, Students' Union Advice Service and Students' Union Student Voice Team can be found on the Students web page.
Academic and administrative staff at our University use your student email address to contact you. It is important that you check this account regularly. You can forward emails from your student email address to a preferred personal email address, however, quarantine and spam filters needed by our University mean that emails sent from external email addresses may be delayed, blocked or deleted. It is therefore important that your student email address is the only email address that you use to contact University staff. Information on how to access your student email address can be found on the Library Student IT Support page: http://libguides.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/it_support/office365/outlook
Please make sure that you inform your Course Administration team whenever you change your address and contact details. It is important that you also update your records yourself. You can do this via the My Account/Update my Data tab on MyBeckett. This will ensure we can always contact you in an emergency, and that you receive any important University communications that we may need to send you.
We will inform you of class activities and course notifications, including any cancellation via MyBeckett announcements.
For each module, the Module Handbook will include the preferred method of communicating general information about that module to you.
Absence reporting
Attendance at all modules: lectures, practicals, tutorial classes is mandatory. Non-attendance for any reason must be reported to the Level Lead and module tutor(s) for that day, via the Course Administrator by email, as early as possible on the day of absence.
Students must fully attend all practice placements in order to be assessed. Please see module descriptors for guidance on minimal hours. If you are unable to attend placement you must contact your Clinical Educator before your stipulated start time and then use the absence reporting link to inform the University: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/health-practice-learning-hub/absence-reporting/
The University does understand that from time to time there is good reason why you may wish to request leave. All requests for authorised leave must be made to your year lead. If you are on placement you must seek approval from the year lead before discussing with your clinical educator.
MS Teams is part of the Office 365 suite used by staff and students for communication and collaboration:
- Access via MyBeckett on University devices as well as on personal mobiles via a free downloadable app.
- Participate in online meetings and video conferencing in groups or one-to-one.
- Work on shared content, ideas, projects and online learning.
- Utilise breakout rooms to create more dynamic sessions
Further information is available on the Library's MS Teams FAQ web page.
Timetable Information
The University’s standard term dates are available on our Academic Calendars web page.
Taught sessions, both mandatory and optional, will be scheduled and included in your online timetable. Depending on your course, this may also include scheduled online teaching and learning sessions where student engagement is required at a specified time or tutor pre-recorded lectures.
Normally, timetables will be made available to continuing students on 31st July and during induction week for new students via:
- The Student Portal (MyBeckett)
- The Leeds Beckett app
You should discuss any difficulties relating to your engagement with timetabled sessions with your Course Administrator.
Course CalendarCourse Overview
The aim of the course is to provide the successful graduate the eligibility to apply for registration to be a physiotherapist and to make a contribution to their organisations, community, profession and wider society. They will have the ability and attributes to develop, deliver and evaluate physiotherapy in a range of settings and continue to enhance professional practice through their continuing professional development and lifelong learning.
At the end of the course, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate competence as autonomous reflective, learners and physiotherapy practitioners with excellent communication skills.
- Use varied approaches, including digital technologies, to identify, select and critically apply information to enable an evidence-informed approach to physiotherapy practice.
- Critically evaluate existing knowledge through the use of effective research strategies and initiate, conduct and disseminate research findings that further develop the physiotherapy and healthcare professions.
- Demonstrate skills of assessment, application and evaluation in the holistic management of individuals from diverse and multicultural backgrounds in order to plan, implement and evaluate physiotherapeutic interventions that are safe, efficient and effective, and to organise and manage a case load.
- Critically evaluate the current healthcare focus upon health promotion, enterprise, leadership and quality from a physiotherapy perspective, taking account of potential future developments and their impact on physiotherapy practice, locally, nationally and globally.
- Demonstrate commitment to continuing professional development as a physiotherapist and to life-long learning.
Assessment & Feedback
On this course students will be assessed though a mix of oral presentations, practical exams based on clinical case scenarios and coursework.
Students are assessed on placement.
The course follows a non-standard calendar. Please note the exam/assessment periods in your course calendar and make sure that you are available during those periods.
Further details of your schedule of examinations can be found on your timetable once the examination schedule is released. Coursework submission deadlines can normally be found on MyBeckett or in individual Module Handbooks/other module guides.
Disabled students requiring adjustments to assessments/examinations should contact Disability Advice as soon as possible. We can only guarantee that adjustments can be put in place if students have contacted us by the following deadlines:
Semester 1 - 10th November 2023
Semester 2 - 8th March 2024
Contact us:
Email: disabilityadvice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Tel: 0113 812 5831
Website: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/disability-advice/
It is important for your progression and achievement that you submit all work for all assignments in a timely manner. It is also important that you keep copies of all work submitted until after you have graduated. You should also keep any receipts confirming the submission of assignments. In the event of your submitted work being lost you may be required to produce a copy of the work and submission receipt. If you are unable to do so, your work will not be marked.
It is important to note that submitting all assignments is a requirement of your course. Should you experience extenuating circumstances which prevent you from submitting on time please make yourself aware of the Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances process. Without any form of extenuating circumstances, standard penalties apply for late submission of assessed work. Full details of the penalties for late submission of course work are available in section 3 of the Academic Regulations at https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/our-university/public-information/academic-regulations/
If you have been recommended 'flexibility around deadlines' as a reasonable adjustment in a Reasonable Adjustment Plan, your Course Administrator will be able to advise you of the process.
You will be required to submit written work via Turnitin; further information on Turnitin is available here: https://libguides.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/it_support/mybeckett/turnitin
Each Module Handbook will provide you with specific guidelines on how and when you will receive feedback on your assessments. Written feedback will be provided for all summative assessments. Student work is internally moderated before marks and feedback are released.
Results from module assessments and decisions on progression to the next level of study or awards (if you are in the final level) are available on the Results Online system: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/exams-assessments-and-awards/results-online/
Results will appear on Results Online within five working days from the date of the Progression and Award Board meeting (the meeting where your end of level outcome will be decided) or the Module Board meeting (the meeting where modular outcomes are decided).
If you are unsure about when you might receive your results or have queries relating to your results, you should contact your Course Administrator.
The University recognises that, from time to time, students may encounter issues which may prevent them from being able to submit or take assessment. Where this is the case, students may be able to submit their 'extenuating circumstances' for consideration. Please see the Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances web page for further information.
If you have not passed a module at the first attempt you will be eligible for re-assessment. See your Module Handbook for details of the relevant re-assessment process (e.g., whether it is coursework, an examination, a presentation or other form of assessment/when it will take place/what the deadline is). You will be advised via the module leader. You are advised to contact your year lead for any necessary clarification.
Details about our Appeals process can be found on the appeals web page.
Academic integrity means intellectual honesty and is part of good academic practice. Further information can be found on our academic integrity web page.
Teaching & Learning
Teaching activities include: staff-led lectures and workshops, student led seminars and workshops, practical work, study packs, tutorials, clinically-based teaching; case studies, problem solving exercises; reflective learning techniques, computer-assisted learning, simulated practice and inter-personal group skills. We use a considerable amount of computer-based learning, which enriches the versatility of the delivery.
Problem solving exercises and case studies enable students to integrate their knowledge and increase their interest in the subject matter. Oral communication and the ability to work effectively in groups are developed by assignments such as group presentations and seminars. Interpersonal skills and interviewing techniques are developed in workshops.
During the practice placements students will be required to develop portfolios and learning logs of work experience.
Students will utilise their transferable skills from their previous academic background and previous life‐skills to attain the necessary clinical education and experiences to be a Physiotherapist. Elements of enquiry‐based learning and (EBL) and its component problem based learning (PBL) will further develop their enquiring, analytical and critical problem‐based learning skills. Problem based learning addresses the following objectives:
- Develops subject knowledge, and integrates theory and practice
- Develops skills for lifelong and self‐directed learning
- Enhances commitment to, and skills for, team working
- Develops clinical reasoning and critical thinking
EBL and PBL will be promoted from the outset of the course to develop students' skills of searching, analysing, interpreting and implementing evidence to address common health‐and social care scenarios and case‐studies. Thereafter, alongside enquiry‐based learning there will be elements of didactic teaching and 'master classes' of clinical skills will also be implemented by lecturers and other experts in their clinical fields. Tutorials, case studies, videos of patients, demonstration and practice of manual clinical skills and patient visits will be employed.
Professional Development Planning (PDP) will be encouraged throughout the course by module teams, personal tutors and Clinical Placement educators giving PDP greater clinical relevance and promoting life‐long learning.
Early Year 1 core modules (Foundations of Physiotherapy Practice) prepare students for their future professional life and reflect the core specialties of physiotherapy that are then presented: Cardiovascular and Respiratory Physiotherapy, Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy and Neurological Physiotherapy. In Year 2 students will further integrate complex clinical presentations that emphasise holistic management and inter‐professional teamwork. Enterprise, leadership and the changing role of healthcare are important elements of clinical care and are embedded in all modules. This further promotes the culture of PDP necessary for the qualified healthcare practitioner. Throughout, students will be encouraged to think creatively and independently with reflective learning contracts, extended pieces of academic writing, verbal presentation of practice acquired case studies, their own research protocols and implementation of empirical research. Hence the course facilitates a problem‐solving and critical approach, learner empowerment and autonomy these being the qualities necessary of the newly‐qualified physiotherapist.
This information is correct for students progressing through the programme within standard timescales. Students who are required to undertake repeat study may be taught alternate modules which meet the overall course learning outcomes. Modules are level 7, except for the Clinical Placement 1-5 modules which are all 15 credits at level 6. Details of module delivery are provided in your timetable.
TWO YEARS FULL-TIME ROUTE, January start
Year 1
Semester 1
Foundations of Physiotherapy Practice, 10 credits
Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, 25 credits
Neurological Physiotherapy, 25 credits
Semester 2
Cardiovascular Respiratory Physiotherapy, 25 credits
Clinical Rehabilitation, 10 credits
Research Foundations, 10 credits
Year 2
Semester 1
Developing Clinical Practice, 15 credits
Research Project, 50 credits
Clinical placement 1, 15 credits
Clinical placement 2, 15 credits
Clinical placement 3, 15 credits
Option modules: Sports and Exercise Medicine Foundations or Shaping Healthcare - Management of Long term conditions, 10 credits
Semester 2
Research Project continues
Clinical placement 4, 15 credits
Clinical placement 5, 15 credits
THREE YEARS PART-TIME ROUTE
The structure below is indicative, as there is some flexibility on the order of module delivery on this route. The Course Director will discuss study preferences with individual students.
Year 1
Semester 1
Foundations of Physiotherapy, 10 credits
Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, 25 credits or Neurological Physiotherapy, 25 credits
Semester 2
Cardiovascular Respiratory Physiotherapy, 25 credits
Year 2
Semester 1
Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, 25 credits or Neurological Physiotherapy, 25 credits
Clinical Placement 1, 15 credits
Semester 2
Clinical Rehabilitation, 10 credits
Developing Clinical Practice, 15 credits
Research Foundations , 10 credits
Year 3
Semester 1
Research Project, 50 credits
Clinical Placement 2, 15 credits
Clinical Placement 3, 15 credits
Option modules: Sports and Exercise Medicine Foundations or Shaping Healthcare - Management of Long term conditions, 10 credits
Semester 2
Research Project continues
Clinical Placement 4, 15 credits
Clinical Placement 5, 15 credits
FOUR YEARS PART-TIME ROUTE
The structure below is indicative, as there is some flexibility on the order of module delivery on this route. The Course Director will discuss study preferences with individual students.
Year 1
Semester 1
Foundations of Physiotherapy, 10 credits
Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, 25 credits or Neurological Physiotherapy, 25 credits
Semester 2
Cardiovascular Respiratory Physiotherapy, 25 credits
Year 2
Semester 1
Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, 25 credits or Neurological Physiotherapy, 25 credits
Clinical Placement 1, 15 credits
Semester 2
Clinical Rehabilitation, 10 credits
Developing Clinical Practice, 15 credits
Research Foundations, 10 credits
Year 3
Semester 1
Research Project, 50 credits
Clinical Placement 2, 15 credits
Option modules: Sports and Exercise Medicine Foundations or Shaping Healthcare - Management of Long-term conditions, 10 credits
Semester 2
Research Project continues
Clinical Placement 3, 15 credits
Year 4
Semester 1
Clinical Placement 4, 15 credits
Semester 2
Clinical Placement 5, 15 credits
A standard 20 credit module equates to 200 notional learning hours, comprising teaching, learning and assessment, placement activities and independent study. The normal notional hours are exceeded here due to placement hours requirements.
Overall workload | Hours |
Teaching and Learning | 639 |
Independent Study and Assessment | 1191 |
Placement | 1080 |
Details of School academic staff can be found on the School of Health Website.
Attendance & Absence
The University expects you to attend and contribute fully to all mandatory sessions on your timetable as set out in your student contract. Engagement in your lectures, seminars and practicals is an important part of your learning - contributing both to the University community and the learning experience of your fellow students on the course. This includes engagement in scheduled virtual learning and activities and meetings in online environments related to your studies.
We monitor your engagement at the University as regular attendance and academic achievement are closely linked. Moreover, by monitoring your engagement and attendance we can identify students who may need our guidance or support at an early stage to help them progress in their studies. This is part of our commitment to ensuring an excellent education and experience and supporting your success at Leeds Beckett.
The University does understand that from time to time there is good reason why you cannot attend a class, and in this instance you must contact your School office to let them know. This may then be recorded as an 'authorised absence'.
Please note that any attendance reports can be shared with you and your Course team. You might be asked to contact your School office so that appropriate academic or pastoral support can be offered, should your attendance record give cause for concern.
Our most important aim is to support your studies, but we are also required to report attendance to various external bodies such as the Student Loan Company and the Home Office. There are measures in place for students who seek to falsely register either their own or fellow students' attendance.
Our Academic Engagement Policy is available under 'Student Contract' on the Student Regulations web page.
Please note that if your course carries professional accreditation or recognition, there may be additional course-specific attendance requirements detailed elsewhere in this handbook.
You must notify your Course Administrator if you are absent (for example for an interview, emergency unforeseen circumstances, or for compassionate leave). If you are going to apply for mitigation you will need to provide written evidence of the reason for your absence.
Please note that if your course carries professional accreditation or recognition, there may be additional course-specific absence reporting requirements detailed elsewhere in this handbook.
If you are unable to study due to Covid-19 (coronavirus) symptoms, please see the guidance available on our Covid-19 web page.
If you are unable to study because of another illness for more than 14 consecutive days (including weekends), you must provide us with a Fit Note.
You can send a digital copy of your Fit Note to your Course Administrator, and then send the original by post.
If you are absent through illness on the day of an examination or assignment deadline and you intend to apply for mitigation, you must also provide us with details as possible. Your submission for mitigation may be made online and the circumstances surrounding it may be self-certified unless your period of absence is prolonged. Generally, all absences of 2 weeks or more will require the submission of verifiable documentary evidence.
For more information on 'fit to sit' and mitigation please visit our Mitigation web page.
Please note that if your course carries professional accreditation or recognition, there may be additional course-specific absence reporting requirements detailed elsewhere in this handbook.
Any Leeds Beckett student who suspects they may have, or have been diagnosed as having a serious infectious disease such as coronavirus, Mumps, TB, measles, meningitis or chicken pox should not attend campus. For notifiable diseases, students should notify their Course Director or Course Administrator as soon as possible giving information regarding which groups of students (and/or colleagues and clients on placements) you have been in contact with and when. For some diseases, such as TB and meningitis, your doctor and our Student Wellbeing Team have a responsibility to notify the West Yorkshire Public Health Protection Team who may also wish to speak to you (or your family) to determine if others require screening or medication. You should follow advice given by the hospital or your GP about when it is safe to return to University. Further information is available on the Student Wellbeing web page.
For guidance on what to do if you have symptoms of Covid-19 (coronavirus), please visit our Covid-19 web page.
If you are thinking about changing course or withdrawing from your course, further information can be found on our Student web pages.
International Students
Please be aware that our University fully complies with United Kingdom Visas and Immigration (UKVI) policy at all times. There are legal reporting requirements for all students in the UK on a Student visa, and full attendance is mandatory for all students who have a Student visa. Failure to meet UKVI attendance and engagement requirements could lead to your academic sponsorship being withdrawn and your visa being revoked.Students who hold a Student visa need to be aware of their responsibilities whilst in the UK, please see www.ukcisa.org.uk or our Student Immigration Advice and Compliance web page for full information.
For up-to-date information about visas, immigration issues and other matters relating to international students, please visit the International Students' web pages on the Students website or email the Student Immigration Advice and Compliance Team on siac@leedsbeckett.ac.uk.
You should have been enrolled on the International Student's Academic Introduction module in MyBeckett when you began your studies - if you missed this you can self-enrol and explore the content which introduces you to making the academic transition to a UK university. Please refer to Library page supporting international students
Professional Accreditation or Recognition Associated with the Course
Regulatory Body
Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
Professional Body
Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP)
Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
Students graduating with MSc Physiotherapy (Pre-registration) or Postgraduate Diploma Physiotherapy (Pre‐registration) are eligible to apply for HCPC registration, the application process can be viewed here: https://www.hcpc-uk.org/registration/getting-on-the-register/
A pass list is sent to the regulatory body following the award board.
Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP)
Students successfully completing the course will be eligible to apply for qualified membership of the CSP.
Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
Students are expected to comply with the HCPC Guidance on conduct and ethics for students. Attendance at all modules and practice placements is mandatory.
The HCPC provides the following information and guidance for students: https://www.hcpc-uk.org/resources/guidance/guidance-on-conduct-and-ethics-for-students/
HCPC Standards that you must be aware of while undertaking this course: https://www.hcpc-uk.org/education/learners/while-i-am-studying/how-hcpc-standards-apply-to-learners/
- Standards of conduct and ethics
- Standards of education and training
- Standards of proficiency, physiotherapists: https://www.hcpc-uk.org/standards/standards-of-proficiency/physiotherapists/
Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP)
Students are expected to comply with the CSP code of professional values. Attendance at all modules and practice placements is mandatory. Students are required to undertake a minimum of 1000 clinical hours.
'In Year' Work Placement Information
The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy recommends that students complete a minimum of 1,000 hours of practice placement experience.
Students undertake a one-week taster placement in year 1. Students then undertake five blocks of six-weeks in year 2, one of which is an elective placement which students source. All other placements are sourced and allocated by the physiotherapy placement team. Students normally work a 36-hour week with an expectation that they are flexible with their working patterns in an ever-changing working environment.
The physiotherapy placement team sources and allocates all placements ensuring that our students gain a great depth and diversity of placement experience through a variety of placement settings which may include This may include community based services, acute services, chronic services, rehabilitation services across a variety of settings for example inpatients, outpatients, private and NHS providers.
Where a student has successfully completed their placements but have not achieve the mandated number of assessed placement hours (e.g., 1000 hours), the course team will look at the proportion of hours completed in a patient facing versus non patient facing environment to guide individual decisions. The Chartered Society of Physiotherapists recommends not more than 25% of the required 1000 hours be completed in a non-patient facing environment. Where a student has capacity to undertake additional non patient facing hours to 'make up' hours this will be offer in the form of a simulated 'Beckett Town' placement and assessed accordingly. Where a student is short of patient facing hours, they will be offered a patient facing placement and will need to achieve an overall pass standard on the common physiotherapy assessment framework (CPAF). There will be no extra university fee for top up placement hours, however student should be aware that they are unlikely to be able to apply for funding for this extra time at university.
1x 1-week taster placement in year 1
5x 6-week blocks in year 2 (the five placements provide potential for students to gain up 1125 clinical placement hours).
A variety of healthcare settings including private and NHS providers mainly within but not limited to the Leeds postcode area. The elective placement is usually undertaken outside of the Leeds area. International elective placements can be arranged; these are subject to risk assessment and quality assurance checks.
Occupational Health clearance and compliance with immunisations is mandatory and essential for placement attendance. Students must undertake statutory and mandatory training prior to undertaking placements. Some placement settings will require proof of DBS .
Occupational health costs are currently covered within your course fees. If students fail to attend appointments or give less than 3 working days' notice to cancel, there will be a £25 missed appointment fee charged. Repeated non-compliance with this process will be managed through application of the Fitness to Practise Policy and Procedures.
Students are provided with uniforms which are organised at the start of the course. There is no charge for uniforms. Students are also issued with an NHS smart card and ID badge to wear on placement. However if these are lost there will be a £27 charge for a replacement smart card and a £5 charge for a replacement id badge. Students must comply with the dress code of the placement site. This would usually include removal/ covering of facial piercing including dermal piercings.
Students must undertake statutory and mandatory training prior to undertaking placements. Some placement settings will require proof of DBS.
Absence reporting
Students must fully attend all practice placements in order to be assessed. Please see module descriptors for guidance on minimal hours. If you are unable to attend placement you must contact your Clinical Educator before your stipulated start time and then use the absence reporting link to inform the University: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/health-practice-learning-hub/absence-reporting/
The University does understand that from time to time there is good reason why you may wish to request leave. All requests for authorised leave must be made to your year lead. If you are on placement you must seek approval from the year lead before discussing with your clinical educator.
Skills, Employability & Graduate Opportunities
You will develop skills in independent learning and team working, clinical decision making, critical reflection, written and oral communication and independent research.
You will have opportunities to gain recognition during your time at Leeds Beckett University for the extra activities you do in addition to your studies, including volunteering, student societies, playing in our University sports teams and being a Course Representative.
By joining a society with Leeds Beckett Students' Union, you can make new friends, have fun, try something new and enhance your CV - societies provide a great opportunity to learn new skills and improve your existing ones. It can be difficult to get to know new people at university but don't worry, everyone is in the same boat! Our Leeds Beckett Students' Union believe that joining a student-led society is the best way to meet new people and make lifelong friends. There are so many societies out there - from course-based to hobby-based to religious to political and campaigning. Whether you're just starting out at Leeds Beckett or working on your last year of study, it is never too late to find the right society for you - or start one yourself!
Course-based societies are a great way to meet people on your course, expand your networks and celebrate your achievements together such as end of year Society Balls. If you have a great idea for a society, we can help you get it up and running. There are resources and support available for all societies - including funding to help make your society goals a reality. For more information on starting your own society, visit: leedsbeckettsu.co.uk/societies/create.
The placement component of the course provides students with a broad portfolio of physiotherapy experience in preparation for employment. Students are provided with an e-portfolio, PebblePad, to develop their professional portfolio. Further support in applying for jobs, personal statements, writing applications and interview skills is embedded within the Developing Clinical Practice module.
This course provides eligibility to apply to register with the regulatory body HCPC which is a requirement to work in the UK as a physiotherapist. The course also enables graduates to apply for full membership with the professional body CSP.
Graduates are equipped to work in the health and social care sector, the private sector and in the sports sector. Graduates may choose to undertake further post-registration study for example our MSc Sports and Exercise Medicine.
Learning Support
If you have a question or a problem relating to your course, your Course Administrator is there to help you. Course Administrators work closely with academic staff and can make referrals to teaching staff or to specialist professional services as appropriate. They can give you a confirmation of attendance letter, and a transcript. You may also like to contact your Course Rep or the Students' Union Advice team for additional support with course-related questions.
Your Academic Advisor will be an academic member of staff who teaches you on your course. Your Course Director will make sure that you are given the contact details of your Academic Advisor at the beginning of each year, usually in your course induction. Further details on the role of your Academic Advisor are available on the Academic Advisor web page.
If you need support, but you're not sure where to go, your Student Advice Team are here to help. The team are an essential part of your Student Support Network and are dedicated to ensuring you can access the advice and support you need, when you need it most.
Student Advice can also help in the practical elements of university. The team will produce your first campus card and assist you in replacing your campus card if needed throughout your time at Leeds Beckett. They can provide Confirmation of Enrolment and Bank Letters for our current students and full or partial transcripts for our graduates and fully enrolled students.
If you need help with more complex queries or concerns, our trained Student Life Advisers offer 1-1 appointments, providing a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space to talk about your circumstances and identify support that you can access both within and outside of the university.
To contact the team, or to arrange an appointment, visit The Student Advice webpage for full details.
The Student Voice & Insight team at LBSU works alongside the elected Academic Experience Officer to effectively represent students' academic interests.
We provide support, training and ongoing development to over 1,000 Course Representatives, Postgraduate Research Reps, Student Community Leaders and Global Majority Student Ambassadors who represent you whilst you study at Leeds Beckett; and facilitate the collection of student feedback on your academic experience.
Unsure who your Course Rep is? Maybe you're interested in becoming a Course Rep or have feedback about your academic experience? Get in touch at:
- Email: studentvoice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
- Telephone: 0113 812 8400
- Website: leedsbeckettsu.co.uk/your-voice
You can find information and resources online through the Support and Opportunities tabs in MyBeckett. In the Support tab, you can find details of a range of services that provide academic and personal support. These include Student Advice, Library Services, the Students' Union, Student Money, Disability Advice, Student Wellbeing, Student Immigration Advice and Compliance and Accommodation. There is also an A-Z of Support Services, and access to online appointments/registration.
In the Opportunities tab, you can explore the options you have for jobs, work placements, volunteering, and a wide range of other opportunities. For example, you can find out here how to get help with your CV, prepare for an interview, get a part-time job or a voluntary role, take part in an international project, or join societies closer to home.
If you have a disability, long-term physical or mental health condition, or a specific learning difference, we believe this should never be a barrier to studying at our University.
Please get in touch with us as soon as possible so we can ensure everything is in place before your course starts.
What should I do next?
- We will ask you to provide evidence of your disability, usually from a health professional or educational psychologist. Don't worry if you haven't got any, we can support you with this.
- Usually, we will arrange an appointment with your Disability Adviser to discuss any adjustments you might need and support you in applying for Disabled Students' Allowances (DSA).
- We will work with you to ensure any adjustments you need are available so you can fully participate on your course.
Please watch this short video about how the Disability Advice Team can work with you.
Disabled students can also access the Disability Resource Areas in each library and the support provided by the Library Learning Support Officer. More information is available on the Library website.
What is Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)?
DSA is government funding to help with the cost of any additional support you might need while studying, such as: one-to-one support, specialist equipment (including useful software) and travel. For more information visit our website.
Contact Us:
Email: disabilityadvice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Tel: 0113 812 5831
Website: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/disability-advice/
The Library
The Library offers 24/7 support for your studies. You can access thousands of resources via MyBeckett or the Library website which also provides full details of all our services.
Library Academic Support
The Library Academic Support Team can help you develop your academic skills such as critical thinking, academic writing and analysing data, and research skills such as how to find, use and evaluate information for your studies. The team liaises with your lecturers to provide the information resources you need for your subject and to arrange academic skills sessions to support you in your studies.
The team maintains a number of websites and modules to support your learning:
- In your Subject guide, you'll find a variety of information resources which have been selected as a good starting point for research in that area. These are available on the Skills and Subject Support web page or via My Beckett.
- On the Skills for Learning website, you'll find online resources covering topics such as essay writing, research and time management, English Language and academic English plus information to help you reference and avoid plagiarism, alongside details of workshops that are designed to help you succeed in your assessments. The Skills for Learning website can be found on the Library website or via My Beckett.
- LBU Study Smart is a module in MyBeckett which introduces you to the key skills and services you'll need to study successfully at Leeds Beckett. There are also additional modules you can take as you move through your course to help you transition between study levels. The Academic Integrity Tutorial is a module in MyBeckett which introduces you to academic integrity at LBU and will help you develop the skills you need to attain good academic practice, including avoiding plagiarism and academic referencing.
- The Academic Integrity Tutorial is a module in MyBeckett which introduces you to academic integrity at LBU and will help you develop the skills you need to attain good academic practice, including avoiding plagiarism and academic referencing.
Library and Student IT Advice Service
The Library and Student IT Advice Service team can answer your queries on borrowing, finding information, passwords, multi-factor authentication (MFA) ,Office 365, online meetings, saving your work, MyBeckett and more:
- online (including 24/7 chat) via the Contact Us web page
- by phone - 0113 812 1000 (24/7 IT support)
- face-to-face in either of our Libraries, check Library opening times for details of when staff are available
They also have a wide range of short tutorials available on the Library's YouTube channel.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi on the University campus is provided by eduroam, a secure wireless network, which also allows you Wi-Fi access if you visit other universities. To connect:
- Select eduroam from available Wi-Fi
- Your login details are:
Username followed by @leedsbeckett: e.g. c1234567@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Password: your normal university password
*Android Users: Select under Phase 2 Authentication - MS-CHAPv2
Help is available on the Library's Wi-Fi web page.
Microsoft Office 365
You are provided with free access to Office 365 and the latest version of Office can be downloaded from the IT tab in MyBeckett or from office.com. All students who are registered for a qualification at Leeds Beckett University are eligible and you can use the subscription for the duration of your course. For instructions and more information, please see the Office 365 support page.
OneDrive
OneDrive Leeds Beckett is your individual file storage with 1TB of storage space. With OneDrive you can access and share your files across your devices. This is accessible on University PCs and off-campus through Office 365 portal. See the Saving your Work pages on the Library website for more information.
Leeds Beckett RemoteApp
The Leeds Beckett RemoteApp gives you access to a range of specialist software for your course on your personal devices. See the RemoteApp page on the Library website for more information.
Media Equipment - free loans
You can borrow high-end Media Equipment for free. Browse, reserve and collect equipment ranging from GoPros to Remote Presenters from the ground floor of the Shelia Silver and Headingley Libraries. Further information is available on the Media Equipment web page.
University life can have its ups and downs, and occasionally you may find yourself in need of advice. That's where we come in. Here at the SU we have a free advice service that is here just for you, the students at Leeds Beckett University.
The Advice Service at LBSU is a confidential, non-judgmental service run by professional advisers.
The service is independent from the University, so if you are having any problems with your course you can talk confidentially with us - although we do work with the University to find the best solutions, we would only contact them with your permission. We can advise on a range of topics including all aspects of the University Regulations and Procedures, housing issues and finance issues. We can guide you through any processes or procedures.
We're here to help you with any questions or problems you might have while you are studying at Leeds Beckett.
Get more information at www.leedsbeckettsu.co.uk/advice.
Resources
MyBeckett, the portal and virtual learning environment provides:
- access to your modules and timetables;
- your reading lists and email account;
- your personal storage area on our University IT servers;
- information on where to look for academic or personal support (Support tab);
- information on opportunities such as jobs, careers, part-time work, placements and volunteering (Opportunities tab)
- access to Library and student IT advice
Further information and support for using MyBeckett can be found on the MyBeckett Support Pages.
https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/school-of-health/facilities/
The Clinical and Multi-professional Skills Suite
The Clinical and Multi-professional Skills Suite on the sixth floor of the Portland Building houses two ten-bed hospital wards with nurses station and non-functioning sluice and shower-rooms. The ten bed wards have a fully integrated nurse call programme built in. In addition, there is a three-bedroom hospital simulation space housing three high tech simulation manikins with multi-task support software to replicate clinical situations. This space also has an observation room that can be used for assessments and allow students to self-reflect on their performance of a 'real-life' scenario re-enactment. There is also the capacity to record and use the Learning Space system to perform exam scenarios with written and visual feedback.
Elsewhere there is an anatomy study space with a state-of-the-art life-size Anatomage table being a virtual dissection table. The new 'immersive suite' projects life-size images to recreate environments outside of the classroom. Examples could be the household sitting room, hospital settings, sports settings or public places. Students can envisage and role-play how they would react to specific clinical scenarios to help and support others and so to prepare them for their future professional roles.
The 'Community Suite' provides the context of the home setting with functioning kitchen and non-functioning bathroom suite. Students can learn how to optimise independence for those who are having difficulty coping in the home setting or to learn how to facilitate safe and early discharge home from hospital.
Student Voice
We are committed to working in partnership with you and the Students' Union to provide you with an inclusive, safe and engaging learning environment which is conducive to study for all our students and our staff. An important element of your time studying with us is your engagement in developing your learning. Your engagement and attendance on your course enables you to further your learning and supports your achievement, course completion and aspirations for the future. There is an expectation that students will attend, engage in their learning and submit on time for assessment. We provide support for you to maximise your time studying with us and to develop your learning, skills and abilities to support you in your chosen career path.
We seek active participation by all our students in the continuous enhancement of our courses and through our monitoring, annual review and enhancement processes. These are formal processes used by our University for assuring the academic standards and quality of your course and its continuous improvement. These processes utilise your feedback, External Examiners' reports, feedback from staff and others, data relating to student outcomes on the course and student surveys to reflect on areas of good practice and areas for further enhancement. We invite all students to participate in a range of opportunities to provide us with feedback on your course and modules. This may include discussions with staff, focus groups, and meetings (e.g. with Course Representatives or with staff) and formalised student surveys e.g. mid module reviews, end of module evaluations and specific course or other surveys such as the Student Barometer, National Student Survey and Graduate Outcomes Survey. We utilise the outcomes of these surveys to benchmark our courses nationally and to inform annual course enhancements.
Informal feedback is also welcome at any time either via your Academic Advisor or module tutor or via your Course Representative. Our partnership with you enables us together to make the most of your learning experience with us and to enhance the quality and reputation of your course. You can find out what actions have been taken in response to your feedback through your Course Representative, the Students' Union, your tutors or through the Library.
Course Representatives (Reps) at undergraduate and postgraduate taught levels are student volunteers who represent you in formal and informal meetings with the University, and follow up on actions that have occurred because of student feedback. You can become a Course Rep, volunteering to represent the views of your peers in order to improve students' academic experience.
In the first few weeks of your time at Leeds Beckett, your Course Director will facilitate an opportunity to appoint Course Reps on your course.
LBSU provides support, training and ongoing development for Course Reps and supports their engagement in enhancement activities throughout the academic year.
Being a Course Rep provides you with an opportunity to enhance your own learning and the development of relevant professional and employability skills alongside your studies. As a Course Rep you would play an important role in:
- Acting as a point of contact and advocate for students on your course and in supporting their active engagement.
- Gathering feedback from students on your course to inform enhancements to the quality of your course and the student experience.
- Facilitating good communication between students and staff on the course.
- Working with the Course Director, members of the course team and the Students' Union to enhance your course.
- Facilitating and engaging in meetings about your course; and
- Being an ambassador for your course.
Further information about being a Course Representative is available at:
We invite all students to participate in a range of opportunities to provide us with feedback on your course and modules. This may include discussions with staff, focus groups, and meetings (e.g. with Course Representatives or with staff) and formalised student surveys e.g. mid module reviews, end of module evaluations and specific course or other surveys such as the Student Barometer, National Student Survey and the Graduate Outcomes Survey.
We are committed to providing a high quality experience for all our students. We welcome comments and compliments from students, and find them valuable for on-going improvements to our provision. Comments and compliments about your course can be raised with your Course Representative or directly with your Course Director or Academic Advisor.
If you have a specific complaint about an act or omission of our University, you may be able to make a complaint under the Student Complaints Procedure. In the first instance, you should raise the matter as soon as possible with the member of staff most directly concerned, or with the person who can best resolve it. If this does not resolve the matter, or if the complaint is too serious to be addressed in this way, then you should make a formal complaint in writing. Information about how to make a complaint, including the student complaints procedure and a complaints form, is available on the Students web pages.
General Information
Postgraduate Diploma Physiotherapy (Pre‐registration)
Non-professional awards
Master of Science Human Physical Sciences
Postgraduate Diploma Human Physical Sciences
Postgraduate Certificate Human Physical Sciences
Leeds Beckett University
Level 7 of the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications, with 180 credits points at level 7 of the Higher Education Credit Framework for England and Level 6: 75 credits.
Part-time delivery can be over three or four years.
Course fees and additional course costs are confirmed in your offer letter. Course fees are presented to you annually through the online enrolment process. Please visit our Course and Tuition Fees Payment web pages for further information. Ongoing queries relating to additional course costs may be discussed with your Course Administrator.
Alternatively, you can contact any of the following teams:
For Student Finance related fee queries: studentfunding@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Other fee related queries: fees@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Payments: incomes@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Policies, Standards & Regulations
Key University regulations and policies can be accessed on the following web pages:
- Academic Regulations (including assessment regulations) are available on our Academic Regulations web page
- The Student Contract is available on our Student Regulations web page
- The Student Charter is available on our Academic Regulations web page (Section 20)
Other Student regulations and University policies, including Safety, Health and Wellbeing policies, are available on our Student Regulations web page
You should also familiarise yourself with Support Report Respect where students and colleagues who are victims of any form of bullying, harassment or sexual misconduct, can access support, advice and guidance.
For advice on University regulations and policies, students should contact the Students' Union Advice Service.
The course follows the Academic Regulations except where noted below.
Fitness to Practise
The MSc Physiotherapy (Pre-registration) is a professional course, and students are expected to act in a professional manner at all times, in line with the University Fitness to Practise Policy and Procedure: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/-/media/files/policies/student/ups_fitness_to_practise_policy_procedure.pdf
Attendance
Attendance at all modules and practice placements is mandatory. Non-attendance for any reason must be reported to the course administrator. If a student's non-attendance is sufficient to give cause for concern regarding the students' fitness to practise this will then be managed through application of the Fitness to Practise Policy and Procedures.
Placement attendance
A student must fully attend practice placements in order to be assessed. If a student is unable to complete a placement through illness or other extenuating circumstance the practice educator together with the university link tutor will decide in any particular case whether the student's attendance has been sufficient to enable the student to be assessed against the module learning outcomes. If this is allowed and the students' performance is at a pass level the completed hours will be counted towards the minimum number of hours of practice.
Some placement modules fall outside of the standard term dates.
A student who fails to complete the minimum number of hours of practice (being 1000 hours as stipulated by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy) will need to undertake additional periods of practice to meet this requirement.
Placement modules - Common Placement Assessment form (CSP)
The professional body, the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) has developed a UK wide common placement assessment form. (CPAF). The aim is to standardise physiotherapy placement assessment. Under standard regulations it would be possible for a student to gain an overall mark of 40% on placement and not meet the individual component parts. The exemption is to require a pass in these specified components, otherwise the placement module should be recorded as a fail.
Clinical Placement 1
Clinical Placement 2
Clinical Placement 3
Clinical Placement 4
Clinical Placement 5
All modules on the course must be passed in order to ensure that the Standards of Proficiency for Physiotherapy are met by students achieving the target award.
Must Pass modules with Practice components
There is a requirement by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy for students to pass all assessments related to practical skills. Failure may not be compensated for the components of assessment. Students must pass these modules and this applies to:
Cardiovascular and Respiratory Physiotherapy
Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy
Neurological Physiotherapy
Attainment Requirements
A student will be required to re-submit for assessment in respect of any failed components of assessment, where their profile of attainment for the module shows an overall average of less than 50%. All reassessment will be on a component basis.
Students are required to pass all practical components of assessment. See above for module details.
Students are required to achieve 40% in all practice placements. Practice placements are assessed at level 6.
Requirement to recover failure
A student will be required to re-submit for assessment in respect of all failed practical components less than 50%, and all failed components where their profile of attainment for the module shows an overall average of less than 50%. All reassessment will be on a component basis.
A student failing to achieve an average of 50% across all components of assessment of a module, will be required to re-submit for assessment, provided that such reassessment falls within the limits on reassessment.
Students failing to gain 50% in practical components of assessments will be required to submit for re-assessment. See above for module details.
Students failing to gain 40% in a practice placement (level 6) will be required to undertake a further placement.
Target Award: MSc Physiotherapy (Pre‐registration)
Graduates with this award are eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council to practise as a Physiotherapist.
Master's degrees are awarded for the attainment of a minimum of 180 credit points at Level 7. The MSc Physiotherapy (pre‐registration) is awarded to students who have achieved the following profile.
Pursued a programme of study of 180 credit points at Level 7 .
Satisfied the submission and attainment requirements for each module of study.
Achieved the overall Learning Outcomes for the programme of study by attaining or exceeding the following requirements:
achieved a mark of 50% or more in, or been credited with, modules equivalent to 180 credit points at Level 7 or above.
achieved an overall average of 50% or more in each module studied.
achieved an average of 50% or more across all modules studied at level 7.
achieved a mark of 40% or more in each of the individual placement elements within the Clinical Placement modules, which total 75 credit points at level 6.
Successfully completed a minimum of 1000 hours of clinical practice.
These follow the Academic Regulations.
Contained Awards
Students not achieving the target award may be awarded a contained award, if the requirements for that award are met. The contained awards for the MSc Physiotherapy course are as follows:
Postgraduate Diploma Physiotherapy (Pre‐registration)
Graduates with this award are eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council to practise as a Physiotherapist.
The award of Postgraduate Diploma Physiotherapy (pre‐registration) in this particular provision is obtained by achieving the requirements set out above for the award MSc Physiotherapy (pre‐registration) with the exception of the requirement to pass the module "Research Project".
The requirement is therefore: successful completion of a minimum of six modules at level 7 excluding the module "Research Project" (140 Level 7 credit points), plus:
achieved a mark of 40% or more in each Clinical Placement module totalling 75 credit points at level 6 although this does not contribute towards the Level 7 award.
successfully completed a minimum of 1000 hours of clinical practice.
The following contained awards do not provide eligibility to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council to practise as a Physiotherapist
MSc Human Physical Sciences
The MSc Human Physical Sciences is awarded to students who have achieved the following profile:
Pursued a course of study of 180 credit points at Level 7 or above, or has been accredited with no more than 120 credit points at Level 7 on admission.
Satisfied the submission and attainment requirements for each module of study.
achieved a mark of 50% or more in, or been credited with, modules equivalent to 180 credit points at Level 7 or above;
achieved an overall average of 50% or more in each module studied;
achieved an average of 50% or more across all modules studied at this level.
There is no requirement to pass level 6 Clinical placement modules or to successfully complete the minimum of 1000 hours of clinical practice.
Postgraduate Diploma Human Physical Sciences
Minimum requirements for this award are successful completion of academic components except for 'Research Project' and unsuccessful clinical placement modules.
Postgraduate Certificate Human Physical Sciences
Minimum requirements for this award are successful completion of academic components except for "Research Project" and unsuccessful clinical placement modules.
An aegrotat award also does not give eligibility to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council.
Course calendar
This course follows a non-standard delivery calendar. It is your responsibility to ensure that holidays are not booked during these times and you are available for exam/assessments and reassessments periods (see course time table). The course calendars are provided above in the Timetable Information. Any changes to your calendar will be notified by a MyBeckett announcement or by the course administrator.
Other requirements
Applicants are required to undertake DBS and Occupational Health clearance checks. Compliance with Occupational Health checks and with immunisations is mandatory and essential for placement attendance. Students who fail to attend more than one appointment will be referred to the Course Director. Non-compliance with this process will be managed through application of the Fitness to Practise Policy and Procedures.
The External Examiner assures that you are assessed fairly in relation to other students on the same course and also that the standard of your own award is comparable to similar courses taken by students in other higher education institutions within the UK. The External Examiner(s) provide an annual report for your course. External Examiner reports are available on our External Examiner Reports web page, which is accessible via the Course Information link on the Students home page.
Dr Christopher Seenan, Glasgow Caledonian University
Appendices
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