The head academy physiotherapist post would ideally suit an applicant who has experience of working in full-time sport at this level, although applications will be considered from strong MSK physiotherapists, who are experienced clinicians with a number of years’ experience.

This post is not suitable for newly-qualified physiotherapists.

As head academy physiotherapist you will manage and oversee the ongoing development of a comprehensive physiotherapy and medical service to Newcastle Falcons academy. You will work as an autonomous practitioner and deliver a quality clinical service, meeting the clinical and commercial needs of the Newcastle Falcons academy programme.

You will however also have input and a daily role in the provision of physiotherapy and rehabilitation to the club’s full-time professional squad, and assisting the head physiotherapist in developing the physiotherapy and medical service at the club.

The multi-disciplinary team at Newcastle Falcons currently consists of coaches, strength and conditioning coaches, nutritionists, an SEM consultant, a trauma consultant, a GP, physiotherapists, masseurs and a sports rehabilitation specialist.

You will have a minimum of a BSc (Hons) physiotherapy qualification, be a chartered physiotherapist registered with the HCPC and be a member of the CSP.

This post is for physiotherapists with a minimum of four years’ post-graduate experience and with a minimum of three years’ experience of working within high-performance sport.

The successful applicant will need to demonstrate understanding and previous experience of treatment and rehabilitation of the high-performance athlete, athlete screening strategies, injury prevention and recovery strategies.

**Essential Criteria**

* MUST be a Chartered Physiotherapist.

* Minimum BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy.

* HCPC Registration.

* CSP membership.

* Minimum of four years’ post-graduate experience.

* Minimum three years’ experience of working within high performance sport.

* Full UK driver’s licence.

**Desirable**

* Previous experience of working at Premiership level, within rugby or equivalent.

* RFU ICIS qualification or equivalent.

* Post-graduate qualification (or working towards).

**Main purpose of role**

* To manage and oversee the ongoing development of a comprehensive physiotherapy and medical service to Newcastle Falcons academy.

* To assist the head physiotherapist in developing and delivering a comprehensive physiotherapy service for Newcastle Falcons’ full-time professional squad.

* To provide with the other members of the Newcastle Falcons MDT performance impacting sports science and sports medicine.

* To help create with the other members of the Newcastle Falcons MDT a world class high-performance training and clinical environment.

* To work as an autonomous practitioner and deliver a quality clinical service, meeting the clinical and commercial needs of the Newcastle Falcons academy programme.

* To strive for clinical excellence in the management of musculoskeletal problems to ensure optimal outcomes for both Newcastle Falcons academy and 1st XV players.

* To work with the massage therapist and S&C coaches to optimise performance, recovery strategies, nutrition and injury-prevention strategies.

* To provide pitch-side first aid cover to RFU standards at both Academy “A” League fixtures and 1st XV matches.

* To assist the 1st XV physiotherapists on a daily basis.

* Regular in-service training, external CPD funding and regular appraisal will be provided.

**Salary:** Up to £30,000, dependent on experience.

For any further information, to apply for the post or to visit the department, please contact our head physiotherapist Simon Pope by email: **simon.pope@newcastle-falcons.co.uk** .

TO APPLY PLEASE INCLUDE: CV, DETAILS OF CURRENT REMUNERATION, RELEVANT CONTACT DETAILS AND A COVERING LETTER OUTLINING WHY YOU BELIEVE YOU ARE THE PERSON FOR THIS ROLE.

**Closing date:** 9th March 2017.

**Interview date:** 16th March 2017.