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Beginning my Exercise Rehabilitation Instructor (ERI) career at PCRF ITC has been eye-opening and
extremely rewarding. Transitioning from the ERI course to real-world practice has been made seamless with a lot of help from the Rehab Team here.
One of the biggest differences between the course and working at the PCRF is the dynamic nature of the job. While the course provides a solid foundation in anatomy, physiology and rehabilitation techniques, it’s in the job where you learn to adapt and innovate. Each patient presenting differences with their injury and timelines for them to return to training – this demands a personalised approach to the individual’s rehabilitation.
Currently the PCRF is undergoing a change in-line with recruit training – the current Common Military Syllabus Future Soldier (Phase One Training) has been reviewed and is additional to Combat Infantry Course 25 (Phase Two Training). This has involved an overhaul of how we conduct Group Therapy sessions, and the outcome measures required for a patient
Balancing the demands of a normal working day with external duties, such as serving as an infrastructure representative for the PCRF, requires careful time management and prioritisation. While patient care always remains the top priority, fulfilling responsibilities outside of direct rehabilitation sessions is crucial for maintaining the smooth operation of the facility and professional development. Whether co-ordinating equipment maintenance or liaising with other departments, these external duties play a vital role in supporting our overarching mission of promoting health and readiness among military personnel.
My first few months at ITC PCRF has given me the reassurance that I have made the correct career choice. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time so far and look forward to the future. On the horizon, the team are looking to move locations with a new Garrison medical center planned for 2026/27, meanwhile the PCRF continues to renovate. Sadly, this year WO2 (QMSI) M Laker leaves the Army after a stellar 22 years – a personality that will be sorely missed in the RAPTC.
PRIMARY CARE REHABILITATION FACILITY (PCRF) INFANTRY TRAINING CENTRE (ITC)
Sgt (SI) J Wharfe RAPTC
to ensure its relevance to the time they came out of training.
Whilst becoming embedded in the team, I have been able to watch and learn from experienced civilian and military ERIs, as well as working with a remarkable and diverse group of Physiotherapists. This has allowed me to develop my own practice and grow in confidence within a short space of time.
The ERI course had prepared me well to be able to discuss and add value to Multi-Disciplinary Team meetings and Regional In-Service Training. Recently, the team have discussed a proposal of set Outcome measures alongside the current Functional measures we carry out within Group therapy – in which we gave our valued opinions.
Variety is the spice of life, and there is plenty of variety at ITC. With different injuries continually coming through the door, it keeps us on our toes. Most recently, I have been dealing with concussion patients. This has given me a greater knowledge of the procedure to follow and learn more about concussion injuries.
ITC PCRF Team at the King’s Coronation Dinner