Listen to Tom Sparks, an osteopath, who had a background in exercise and now specialises in sport, talk about why he chose to study osteopathy.
Case Study: Gemma Fisher, Osteopath & Formula 1 Human Performance Consultant
Gemma graduated with a Master of Osteopathy (M.Ost) in 2012 after a career as a gym instructor and personal trainer. She gained additional qualifications in Medical Acupuncture, Cranio-sacral Osteopathy and Kinesiotaping.
She was employed by Williams Martini Racing as a Human Performance Specialist providing the medical care for the Williams Formula One team and their drivers. She went on to look after the health and wellbeing of the wider Williams Group workforce, as well as working with Williams Advanced Engineering to develop innovative technology and protocols for medical applications.
She now runs her own practice in Reading known as Formula Health which includes a sports injury clinic. Most recently she has been working for the Alfa Romeo Racing F1 team, splitting her time between their Head Quarters in Switzerland, International Grand Prix racetracks and her clinic in the UK.
Case Study: Jon McSwiney, Osteopath Specialising in Sports
Jon McSwiney graduated from BCOM in 1996 and since has specialised in osteopathy and sports. He was selected as part of the medical team for the London 2012 Olympic Games, treating rowing athletes. In 2017 he was also selected for the medical team at the 2017 World and Para Athletics Championships held at the Olympic Stadium and recently was part of the medical team at Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Jon also pursues his passion for working in sport covering on pitch for Didcot Rugby Union Football Club and the Oxfordshire Under 20s. Jon was also lecturer in anatomy and osteopathy at BCOM and is a Moderator for the final clinical competence exams at BCOM.
Commenting on why he chose to study osteopathy and his career to date Jon said, "I visited an osteopath in my early twenties and was immediately struck by the hands on treatment. At our core we are physical therapists who continue to gain acceptance across a wide range of fields. Sport loves osteopaths. We are able to use our observational skills with our knowledge of anatomy, physiology and biomechanics to treat the athlete as a whole and as an individual. Even the simplest soft tissue techniques can have a huge positive effect for an elite athlete but also the weekend warrior visiting your clinic. If you choose to focus more on sport, osteopathy gives you the tools to succeed."

Case Study: Pierre Meslet, Sports Osteopathy & Rehabilitation
French-born Pierre graduated from the European School of Osteopathy in 2011, after first gaining a degree in Sports & Exercise Science and a Diploma of Physiotherapy (Canada). Pierre has a special interest in sports osteopathy and was a member of the medical team at the London 2012 Olympic Games and 2017 World Para Athletics Championships.
After working as an associate osteopath in Singapore for several years, he now practices in South West London, where he offers office and home visits (osteopathy and rehabilitation).
By managing his own diary, Pierre enjoys a flexible career that allows him to enjoy family life and also pursue his own passions, including training and competing in the Marathon des Sables, a six-day 250km race in the Sahara known as the toughest footrace on the planet.
What our students say
“I chose the modified attendance course as it was structured in a way that allowed me to maintain my current full-time employment and study alongside it. I had been looking at Osteopathy courses for a few years, but all the other formats of study offered weren’t compatible with my job. Due to the minimal time required away from work, my employer fully supported me in undertaking the degree.” Jamie, Year 1, BSc (Hons) Osteopathy student and working as a soft-tissue therapist at a Premier League football club
“I chose to study osteopathy because I am passionate about the human body and I am also passionate about helping people… The tutors and staff at BCOM have been brilliant, my fellow students have been great and I have enjoyed every step of the journey.” Takunda Pswarayi, BCOM 2022 graduate
“The quality of teaching and support at BCOM is first class and provides a solid foundation to becoming a well-rounded osteopath. Overall, the course has exceeded my expectations and I would highly recommend it to anyone considering osteopathy.” Sabrina Chow, BCOM 2018 Graduate
“I feel like the best thing about studying at the ESO is the feeling that you are part of a big family, You get to know each other well during the first term, and you do everything together. The student association organises events at the campus every term which are good fun, Maidstone also has plenty of nice pubs and clubs.” Oliver, ESO 2022 Graduate
“The ESO has so many amazing connections and I like the idea of spending a few years working in New Zealand. I know I made the right choice choosing ESO as I have met so many amazing and like-minded people. I can see why graduates come back as lecturers to teach at the ESO.” Anna, ESO Year 4 Student