University's first physiotherapy students graduate

The University of Suffolk's first cohort of physiotherapy students graduating

A university's first cohort of physiotherapy students are looking towards the future after graduating alongside a former Olympic swimmer.

The 22, who studied at the University of Suffolk, celebrated their achievements at a graduation ceremony in a marquee on Ipswich Waterfront.

Launched as a new course in September 2022, the graduates have since secured jobs at the likes of Ipswich Town Football Club and health settings across the world.

During the event, the students were joined by honorary graduate Karen Pickering who competed in four consecutive Summer Olympics.

Danielle Ramsey is the senior lecturer of the University of Suffolk's physiotherapy course

Danielle Ramsey, senior lecturer in physiotherapy, said: "We're incredibly proud of all the hard work of our first cohort of physiotherapy students.

"They have also been incredible ambassadors in the community, meaning our students have been very well respected and received by our placement partners.

"Seeing them getting their first jobs is very rewarding."

'Really valuable'

Students completed seven work placements across during their degree - each about five weeks' duration, giving them at least 1,000 hours of practical experience.

Abbey Webster is due to start as a physiotherapist at a private practice in the next few weeks, after graduating on Monday.

The 22-year-old from Essex said: "The placements were really valuable because they improved our confidence with actually practising physio."

Prof Paula Kersten described seeing students graduate as a "real privilege"

Since completing their studies in the summer, students have gone on to secure their first jobs, including at hospitals in Northern Ireland and Nottingham, with one even joining a provider in Australia.

Prof Paula Kersten, executive dean of the school of health, sciences and society, said: "We know there is a lot of interest in this course and career and there is a demand for practitioners in the industry."

Olympic swimmer Karen Pickering was given an honorary degree during the ceremony

During the graduation, Pickering, who is now the sports ambassador for Ipswich, also received an honorary doctorate.

She said: "It's such a huge honour and such a special moment for me.

"I find it very emotional any time I come back to Ipswich because the town was such a huge part of my life – Crown Pools was really my second home."