Looking to show students the real-world routes into healthcare careers? Matt Jenkinson’s story is a powerful example of passion, purpose, and progression in physiotherapy.

As part of The Changing Education Group’s Inspire Future Leaders series, Matt shares his journey through sport, health, and rehabilitation, and how listening and empowerment are key to his success.

Who is Matt Jenkinson, and how is he helping students explore healthcare careers?

Matt Jenkinson is a Chartered Physiotherapist with over 20 years of experience and co-founder of Your Health Roots, a community-focused physiotherapy service.

In our latest industry insight video, Matt joins host Amos Madra to share how he built a successful career across elite sport, occupational health, private practice, and community care.

Career highlights:

• Chartered Physiotherapist (HCPC and CSP registered)
• Background in both sports rehabilitation and clinical physiotherapy
• Worked in elite football and rugby league as head physio
• Provided musculoskeletal support through NHS-backed social enterprise Pathways CIC
• Co-founded Your Health Roots, helping people stay in or return to work

Matt’s insight offers students a valuable view of the diverse paths within physiotherapy, from pitch-side recovery to holistic community support.

What can students learn from Matt’s approach to physiotherapy?

Matt’s ethos is built on empowerment and coaching, helping clients become active participants in their own recovery journey.

He stresses the importance of listening in healthcare:

“The patient is the expert in themselves, our role is to guide and support.”

This mindset isn’t just clinically effective; it’s a powerful example for students exploring people-focused careers.

Key takeaways for students:

• Variety in healthcare: One profession, many routes, from sport to the NHS
• Soft skills matter: Listening, empathy, and coaching are just as vital as clinical knowledge
• Wellbeing is a career: Helping others stay healthy and in work is rewarding, purposeful, and future-proof

How does this support career education in UK schools?

Matt’s story supports Gatsby Benchmark 4, linking curriculum learning to careers, by showing how biology, PE, and psychology connect to real-world healthcare roles.

By integrating industry insight into careers education, schools can:

• Make science subjects feel more relevant and inspiring
• Show the human side of healthcare professions
• Promote personal development alongside academic progress
• Support Ofsted-ready career guidance with real-world examples

The Changing Education Group’s video insights are designed to give every student, no matter their background, the chance to see a meaningful future.

Helping Students See What’s Possible in Healthcare

Matt Jenkinson’s journey is more than a CV, it’s a testament to purpose-led work and the difference students can make in people’s lives through healthcare careers.

Want to inspire your learners with real industry role models?
Book a demo to see how The Changing Education Group helps schools deliver meaningful, Gatsby-compliant career learning that empowers every student.

FAQs

What is physiotherapy?
Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession focused on restoring movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness, or disability.

Where can physiotherapists work?
They can work in hospitals, private clinics, sports teams, community health services, or occupational health settings, like Matt has.

What qualifications does a physiotherapist need?
A degree in physiotherapy (HCPC-approved) is essential. Many also pursue related qualifications in sports rehab, coaching, or public health.

Why is Matt Jenkinson’s story important for students?
It shows the wide range of opportunities in healthcare and the power of listening, resilience, and self-development in building a career.

How can my school access more content like this?
The Changing Education Group’s Work Experience Suite includes industry insights, employer engagement, and virtual placements to support career learning.