Supporting the Next Generation: Supervising La Trobe University Students at Geelong Orthotics

At Geelong Orthotics, we’re proud to contribute to the future of allied health by supervising 4th year clinical students from La Trobe University. These placements are a vital part of their final year training, offering hands-on experience in a real-world clinical setting.

Why It Matters

Orthotic care is both technical and personal. By mentoring students, we help them develop:

• Clinical reasoning and decision-making skills

• Patient-centered communication

• Technical proficiency in assessment, casting, and fitting

• Confidence in managing both paediatric and adult cases

We believe that investing in student education strengthens the profession and improves outcomes for future patients.

What Students Experience at Geelong Orthotics

Our students are immersed in a diverse caseload, including:

• Paediatric gait assessments and orthotic management

• Adult musculoskeletal and neurological presentations

• Acute injury care, including fracture bracing and post-surgical support

• Exposure to regional outreach clinics, where access and adaptability are key

• Collaboration with Geelong Footwear to understand the role of orthotic-friendly shoes in treatment plans

They work alongside experienced clinicians, participate in case discussions, and contribute to patient care under supervision.

Honours Project: Improving Rural and Regional Access

In 2025, we’re also supervising a La Trobe University honours project focused on improving access, efficiency, and outcomes for regional and rural patients. This research aligns with our commitment to outreach and equity in healthcare, and gives students the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to service innovation.

Building Professional Confidence

We aim to create a supportive learning environment where students feel safe to ask questions, reflect on their practice, and grow. Many go on to become confident, capable clinicians some even returning to work in regional settings like ours.