Chloe tells us why she chose an apprenticeship in dispensing optics. She's a student dispensing optician at Lynne Fernandes Optometrists in Bristol What inspired you to become a dispensing optician? From a young age I have always wanted to become an optometrist but after getting a Saturday job in optics while studying for my A levels I discovered there were other paths than just going to university. After finishing my A-levels I decided I didn’t want to go to university.…
When Jessica Firrell finished sixth form, she wasn’t sure what came next. University didn’t feel like the right fit. “I’d been working two part-time jobs while I was at college and realised I much preferred being active and learning on the job.” Instead, she turned to apprenticeships, hoping to find something more hands-on and fulfilling. She applied for several in business and marketing but the interviews confirmed what she already suspected – that an office-based role wasn’t for her. Then…
A high street optical chain came top in five categories at the 2025 regional and national Apprenticeship and Skills Awards. Specsavers won large apprenticeship employer of the year, while Katie House (pictured holding award) was named apprentice of the year. Dena Wyatt, head of apprenticeships, was named skills champion in the regional section. Katie said: ‘The highlight of this apprenticeship is actually seeing my development grow, I have been able to be a part of some many amazing things because…
There are lots of different routes You could start working as an optical assistant and study online to learn more about eyecare and eyewear. Or become a student or apprentice dispensing optician and earn while you learn via block release or day release. You can get a diploma or a degree while being paid. You could head to university for a degree in ophthalmic dispensing or optometry, followed by clinical experience under supervision to become a registered health professional. Other…
Whatever your interests, there’s a career in eyecare that’s just right for you. From optometry to optical sales, frame design to practice manager, take a look at these ideas. Patient care There are lots of careers where you can make a difference to people’s health, from saving their sight to looking after those facing life-changing conditions. Ophthalmologist Optometrist Dispensing optician Orthoptist Ophthalmic nurse People skills Do you enjoy communicating and spending time your day interacting with other people? These roles…
You did all the work, you’ve taken a break… now results day is approaching. What are your options if things don’t go as well as you hoped after GCSEs, A Levels, BTECs, Nationals, Highers or T Levels? Key dates 5 August – SQA Highers and Nationals 14 August – A Levels 14 August – T Levels 14 August – BTEC Nationals 19 August – IGSCE (International GCSE) 21 August – BTEC First/Tech 12 August – GCSE If your results are…
Can you succeed at work if you face extra challenges? James, 24, works at Specsavers in Harpenden, Hertfordshire, and has an anxiety disorder. He takes us through a typical day. What do you do every day? My main tasks include performing pre-screening tests for customers before their eye test, helping them choose and purchase frames and lenses for their glasses, and fitting their glasses when they come to pick them up. I also have mandatory learning time, training on the…
If you are in Year 13, it can feel like everyone is asking what you plan to do next. Where does your future lie? It feels like the pressure is on and you have to know what you want to do for the rest of your life. Don't worry. You have time to explore your options and there’s plenty of help and information out there. Finding the right career There’s lots of ways to find ideas and explore whether they…
Specsavers, the high street eye and hearing care firm, has 62 places on their apprenticeship scheme across the country. Head of apprenticeships Dena Watt says: “At Specsavers we are passionate about helping people learn and grow and our diverse range of apprenticeships offer a great stepping stone into our business and a way to upskill on the job. “Around 90% of apprentices stay on in permanent positions after qualifying and most go on to gain further qualifications. So, if you…
It’s National Apprenticeship Week and there’s never been a better time to consider this way of training as a dispensing optician (DO). Level 6 apprenticeships, equivalent to a degree, were launched for the first time in September, allowing you to earn while you learn. DOs advise on, fit and supply the most appropriate spectacles after taking account of each person’s visual, lifestyle and vocational needs. They can take further training to fit contact lenses. The next group of learners will…