"I’m developing my physiotherapy skills in a professional football environment."

Dominic Millward is an apprentice physiotherapist with Sheffield Wednesday Football Club (SWFC), undertaking BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy degree apprenticeship at Sheffield Hallam University.

"My background has always been within sports. I completed an undergraduate degree in sports and exercise therapy and started working at SWFC straight after graduating. After two years in football, I realised that this is the area I wanted to spend my career in and that to progress further I would need to become a Physiotherapist."

Benefits of the apprenticeship

"The apprenticeship allows me to learn while still earning a wage, but more importantly keeping myself in the club and football. It also allows me to put into practice what I have learnt at uni and expand my knowledge around rehabilitation. I can then take this back to the club to apply to a more sporting environment."

"I have been able to challenge myself with rehab case studies for different injuries and draw knowledge from the other physios at the club around taping, treatment and rehabilitation techniques, which I then combine with my learning from university."

Support and placements

"My employer has been very supportive by giving me opportunities to develop and practise skills that I have picked up during uni and my time at the club."

"Managing off-the-job learning has been much simpler than I imagined. It is hard to have specific study days when working in football, so this is not something that I have worried about. I have been able to build hours throughout the season by adding up each time I have done something new or through teaching weeks at university or while on placement."

Advice for apprentices

"My advice to any other apprentices is to gain a full understanding of what is required of you to get the most from the apprenticeship. Be fully aware of what will be expected in terms of teaching weeks, placements, exams and assessments."

"Clear communication with your mentor and other people in your department helps everyone be prepared and ensures you can make the most of your learning opportunities."