Inspiring teenagers is a rewarding aspect of the profession. It can be thought-provoking and encouraging, making you reflect on your working life. So how should you prepare if you are approached by a local school? Or if you are inspired to reach out? The basics First, agree the format. Is this face to face or online? A formal talk with slides followed by a Q&A, or an informal fireside chat led by student questions, with no prepared presentation? What technology…
Sai visits patients in their homes, working as his own boss but with the support of a company in a joint venture partnership. What do you start with every day? I like to start my day sorting out my packed lunch, ensuring I have plenty of water as it can be thirsty work chatting to patients all day! I also do some general housekeeping like making sure my testing equipment is prepped and checking my patient list, which is organised…
Claudio Tarantino is a trailblazer for dispensing and contact lens opticians who want to expand their clinical practice. He has achieved accreditation under the contact lens optician Wales Optometry Postgraduate Education Centre (WOPEC) Minor Eye Conditions (MECS) scheme. It means Claudio can do more to support his patients and the NHS. Primary eye care practitioners triage, manage, and prioritise patients presenting with a minor eye condition. Claudio Tarantino of Specsavers Stratford-upon-Avon has taken an extra qualification to manage patients with minor…
A new degree apprenticeship offers fresh vocational options in eye imaging. The University of Gloucester’s BSc (Hons) Healthcare Science Practitioner Apprenticeship (Ophthalmic Imaging) course is a distanced blended learning programme. Ophthalmic imaging uses powerful technology to capture vital information from patient examinations. It is essential for diagnosing, treating and monitoring eye conditions. Images play a central role in disease screening, teaching, clinical trials and telemedicine. Ophthalmic imaging technicians work in hospital eye services. There is a national shortage of qualified…
Dan Scott is The Eyewear Stylist, helping people find bespoke frames that reflect their individual stories. He is a qualified dispensing optician and a trained personal stylist. What do you start with every day? I love my coffee, so if I'm in my studio in Media City, Salford, I'll pick up a drink from one of the coffee shops. But when you are freelance every day is different, so I might be up at 5.30am for a 6.30am networking meeting.…
The Spectacle Makers’ Charity has opened its bursary application scheme for the current academic year to help students on apprenticeships, degree and diploma courses. These must be in optometry, dispensing, orthoptics or allied eye care subjects. Ophthalmic nurses and clinical technicians are also eligible. People can apply for financial support if they are on a recognised course at Level 4 or above which is designed to lead directly to a career in eye health. This includes: apprenticeships in ophthalmic clinical support…
Interviews are opportunities to show your skills to the recruiter. Preparation is key. Before the interview, research the company. What does the website or social media say about the business’s activity, values and history? Who are the senior people? This can give you insights into their priorities, what they want from potential employees and why they are hiring. Read the job advertisement again and think about what it says about the business, the role, and the candidate they want. Rehearse…
If you think working in eye health is purely about sight tests, think again. There are lots of careers on offer. Does your teen want to carry on studying or start earning straight away? Do they enjoy talking to people or love technology? Enjoy fashion or want to run their own business? An optical career could be the answer. For school leavers Optical assistant This role helps people choose frames and lenses, working under supervision. It is a good option…
Daniel tells us about his role in improving accessibility I’m Daniel Williams, founding director of Visualise Training and Consultancy Ltd, where our mission is to improve accessibility, inclusion and equality. I established the business in 2014 to share my personal and professional experiences and expertise with companies and organisations. I want to help them provide excellent service for customers and employees with disabilities as well as meet their legal obligations under The Equality Act 2010. I have an eye condition…