Outline

Overview

Physiotherapy Clinical Practicum I will provide students with opportunities to gain and demonstrate foundational competencies in the skills and attributes of physiotherapy professionals, both broadly and across the core areas of physiotherapy. During the placement, students will work under the guidance of a clinical educator. They will have the chance to lead individual and group training sessions, such as group rehabilitation and exercise sessions and participate in interprofessional learning opportunities. This first clinical practicum unit can be in various settings such as hospital settings, rehabilitation centres, aged care or private practice including metropolitan or rural settings. Students will learn how to provide clinical care to a variety of individuals and groups, and will further develop their skills in communication and history-taking, assessment, goal setting, clinical reasoning, teamwork, procedural skills, and professional practice. They will reflect on ethical and professional considerations within the scope of physiotherapy practice and on the impact of the social determinants of health.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Movement Sciences
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	PHTY5500 and PHTY5501
Corequisites ?	PHTY6500
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Belinda Judd, belinda.judd@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 1 May 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Peer or expert observation or supervision	Educator Assessment Mid-unit Mid-unit Extended EFPC	0%	Week 03	n/a	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Evaluation	Student Self-Reflection/Assessment Mid-unit Mid-unit self-evaluation based on EFPC	0%	Week 03	n/a	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Peer or expert observation or supervision	Educator Assessment End-Unit Final-unit Extended EFPC	100%	Week 05	n/a	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Practical skill	Summary of Activity Completion of summary of activity form on Sonia	0%	Week 05	n/a	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Evaluation	Student Self-Reflection/Assessment End-unit Final-unit self-evaluation based on EFPC	0%	Week 05	n/a	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ?

Assessment summary

AT1 and AT2 Educator Assessment: Educators rate the students' performance using the EFPC at mid and end unit.

AT4 and AT5 Student Self Assessment: Students reflect on their own perfomrance and rate themselves using the EFPC at mid and end unit.

AT3 Submitted work: Students are to complete a Summary of Activity (SoA) form found on Sonia to map the breadth of clinical experiences.

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas.

Assessment criteria

Our curriculum design is based on the principles of programmatic assessment for learning. Programmatic assessment will involve a longitudinal program of small-stake assessments, continuous rounds of reflection for learning and improvement, attendance, professionalism, Learning Advisor meetings, and opportunities for remediation/extension. Students must complete/submit all assessments.

In addition, for clinical placement units of study, the expected standard for each placement must be met. Decisions will be made in reference to the expected standard for each individual assessment and competency levels. For PHTY6501 this will be defined by the Evaluation of Foundational Placement Competencies (EFPC) tool.

Progression is determined by the clinical educator who will advise the unit of study coordinator and Progression Committee, based on students’ performance while on placement. All students who meet the expected standard in all assessments will progress, if they have not breached the faculty professionalism requirements. In some cases, students may be required to undergo remediation and further assessment to meet the expected standards for progression.

Result name	Description
Satisfied requirements	The learning outcomes of the unit of study have been met to a satisfactory standard.
Failed requirements	The learning outcomes of the unit of study have not been met to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

n/a

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	Physiotherapy Clinical Practicum I	Placement (40 hr)
Week 02	Physiotherapy Clinical Practicum I	Placement (40 hr)
Week 03	Physiotherapy Clinical Practicum I	Placement (40 hr)
Week 04	Physiotherapy Clinical Practicum I	Placement (40 hr)
Week 05	Physiotherapy Clinical Practicum I	Placement (40 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

This Practicum is a five-week placement which requires full-time attendance (approximately 40 hours per week) at the clinical facility. Your placement site may be in a rural or metropolitan setting.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

DPT Canvas sites

Preparation activities outlined on Clinical Site Descriptors found on Sonia.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. LO1. Demonstrate emergent physiotherapy skills as described by the Evaluation of Foundational Placement Competencies (EFPC)
LO2. LO2. Demonstrate an understanding of and operate within professional and ethical practice standards and with appropriate cultural capabilities.
LO3. LO3. Communicate effectively, professionally, and reflectively with diverse patients, carers, clinical educators, and members of the interdisciplinary team.
LO4. LO4. Contribute to the design and implementation of patient-centred assessment, interventions and education based on best practice principles, EBP, and patient goals under supervision.
LO5. LO5. Evaluate and reflect on their professional identity development, operate as an effective team member, and serve as an ambassador for the University the profession, and quality healthcare.
LO6. LO6. Reflect on personal limitations, recognise risk in the workplace for patients, self, and others, and identify strategies to maintain safe practice.
LO7. LO7. Consolidate the developing and transferable skills from Foundations I and II and lived experiences.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes	Competency standards
	Physiotherapy Practice Threshold Statements - 1. Physiotherapy practitioner 1.1. plan and implement an efficient, effective, culturally responsive and client-centred physiotherapy assessment 1.2. involve the client and relevant others in the planning and implementation of safe and effective physiotherapy using evidence-based practice to inform decision-making 1.3. review the continuation of physiotherapy and facilitate the client’s optimal participation in their everyday life 3.2. record and effectively communicate physiotherapy assessment findings, outcomes and decisions 8.A. knowledge of relevant anatomy, physiology, pathology, other biomedical sciences relevant to human health and function, and psychosocial and other determinants of health encompassing cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, neurological and other body systems within the context of physiotherapy and best available research evidence 8.B. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice including evidence-based practice 8.C. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice with clients across the lifespan, from birth to end of life care, who present with one or more problems such as pain and/or impairment or dysfunction contributing to impairment, activity limitations and participation restriction 8.D. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice across acute, rehabilitation and community practice in a range of environments and settings 8.F. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice in health promotion and facilitation of client self-management strategies to enhance their health and well-being
	Physiotherapy Practice Threshold Statements - 1. Physiotherapy practitioner 1.1. plan and implement an efficient, effective, culturally responsive and client-centred physiotherapy assessment 1.2. involve the client and relevant others in the planning and implementation of safe and effective physiotherapy using evidence-based practice to inform decision-making 1.3. review the continuation of physiotherapy and facilitate the client’s optimal participation in their everyday life 3.2. record and effectively communicate physiotherapy assessment findings, outcomes and decisions 8.B. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice including evidence-based practice 8.C. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice with clients across the lifespan, from birth to end of life care, who present with one or more problems such as pain and/or impairment or dysfunction contributing to impairment, activity limitations and participation restriction 8.D. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice across acute, rehabilitation and community practice in a range of environments and settings 8.F. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice in health promotion and facilitation of client self-management strategies to enhance their health and well-being
	Physiotherapy Practice Threshold Statements - 1. Physiotherapy practitioner 1.1. plan and implement an efficient, effective, culturally responsive and client-centred physiotherapy assessment 1.2. involve the client and relevant others in the planning and implementation of safe and effective physiotherapy using evidence-based practice to inform decision-making 1.3. review the continuation of physiotherapy and facilitate the client’s optimal participation in their everyday life 3.2. record and effectively communicate physiotherapy assessment findings, outcomes and decisions 8.F. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice in health promotion and facilitation of client self-management strategies to enhance their health and well-being
	Physiotherapy Practice Threshold Statements - 1. Physiotherapy practitioner 1.1. plan and implement an efficient, effective, culturally responsive and client-centred physiotherapy assessment 1.2. involve the client and relevant others in the planning and implementation of safe and effective physiotherapy using evidence-based practice to inform decision-making 1.3. review the continuation of physiotherapy and facilitate the client’s optimal participation in their everyday life 3.2. record and effectively communicate physiotherapy assessment findings, outcomes and decisions 8.A. knowledge of relevant anatomy, physiology, pathology, other biomedical sciences relevant to human health and function, and psychosocial and other determinants of health encompassing cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, neurological and other body systems within the context of physiotherapy and best available research evidence 8.B. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice including evidence-based practice 8.C. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice with clients across the lifespan, from birth to end of life care, who present with one or more problems such as pain and/or impairment or dysfunction contributing to impairment, activity limitations and participation restriction 8.D. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice across acute, rehabilitation and community practice in a range of environments and settings 8.F. knowledge and understanding of theoretical concepts and principles relevant to physiotherapy practice in health promotion and facilitation of client self-management strategies to enhance their health and well-being
	Physiotherapy Practice Threshold Statements - 3.2. record and effectively communicate physiotherapy assessment findings, outcomes and decisions 6.2. seek opportunities to lead the education of others, including physiotherapy students, as appropriate, within the physiotherapy setting
	Physiotherapy Practice Threshold Statements - 1. Physiotherapy practitioner 1.2. involve the client and relevant others in the planning and implementation of safe and effective physiotherapy using evidence-based practice to inform decision-making

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Feedback from students to be incorporated

Additional information

This unit of study outline must be read in conjunction with the Medicine and Health Handbook:

https://www.sydney.edu.au/handbooks/medicine-health-pg/coursework-pz/physiotherapy.html

All students are required to familiarise themselves with their academic responsibilities, and the academic policies governing their enrolment and progression. This handbook provides a direct link to the University of Sydney’s Coursework policy and Faculty provisions.

When considering applications and appeals relating to these matters, it will be assumed that students understand their academic responsibilities and are familiar with these key policies and procedures.

For the Appeal process please refer to

Academic appeals - The University of Sydney

Additional costs

Additional costs may be incurred for accommodation, transport and leave from usual employment. Students should prepare to cover these costs and can refer to the University website for financial assistance opportunities. https://www.sydney.edu.au/students/financial-support.html

Site visit guidelines

Dependent on individual placement site requirements

Work, health and safety

As you are completing a health-related degree, there are clinical checks and clearances you will need to complete before you can undertake placement. You can find more information at:

https://www.sydney.edu.au/students/clinical-placement-checks.html

Consistent with New South Wales WHS legislation, you are required to complete a WHS induction within the first few days of your placement, and if relevant at any time you attend to work in another setting. This is an essential legal requirement to ensure that all risks are minimised for yourself and others that you are responsible for. The University has a duty of care to ensure you have been inducted appropriately and similarly, you are responsible for demonstrating that you are aware of, and know how to manage risk appropriately. The WHS site induction checklist should be carried out by each student on the first day of placement.

Further, students must have an up-to-date declaration (in Sonia) that they have read and understood key documents related to privacy and confidentiality, codes of conduct, NSW Health policies and general communication/ email etiquette. Failure to meet these requirements may prevent you from being allocated to and/or completing a placement or placement unit of study irrespective of your enrolment status.

Students must comply with the latest public health orders regarding COVID-19, as well as any site specific guidelines: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/covid-19/Pages/public-health-orders.aspx

This is a requirement for health care workers within NSW Health and private health facilities, or others so directed by the Chief Health Officer, and the vaccine must be one that is approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Additional costs

Site visit guidelines

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

PHTY6501: Physiotherapy Clinical Practicum I

Intensive April - May, 2026 [Professional practice] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Additional costs

Site visit guidelines

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links