Orthoptists are the experts in diagnosing and treating defects in eye movement and problems with how the eyes work together, called binocular vision. This field offers a fascinating and rewarding career. Make a real difference Orthoptics lets you change lives every day. Imagine the dramatic impact of helping children see clearly for the first time, or fixing a patient’s double vision. Cutting-edge science If you’re fascinated by how the body and brain work together, orthoptics is for you. It combines…
Top tips for Zoom interviews
You’ve applied for the job and got that interview – congratulations! If it’s a Zoom or Teams call, there are some important things to think about compared to a face-to-face meeting. Use a laptop or desktop Zoom and Teams have mobile apps but laptops or PCs are best — even if you have something to hold your phone still. Your computer gives you and the interviewer a better view and may be clearer. If you can, plug your laptop in.…
Day in the life – optical assistant Emily is on her way to a bright future
Emily Steele works for Edmonds & Slatter Opticians in Leicestershire and has just completed the optical assistant course with ABDO College Why did you choose an optical career? I’d started to need glasses a few years before and realised my idea of how glasses were supposed to look was totally out of date. I noticed how much of a fashion statement they are now. I’d previously worked in a pharmacy. I wanted to stay in healthcare but have something more…
Earn while you learn – Level 6 apprenticeships launched
There’s a new way to train as a dispensing optician (DO) and earn while you learn with the launch of Level 6 apprenticeships, equivalent to a degree. 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 first intake started in September and the next group of learners will begin their courses a year later. The 2025 starters will…
Six great reasons to choose a career in eyecare
There are lots of different ways in You could start working as an optical assistant and can study online to learn more about eyecare and eyewear. Learn through block release or day release as a student or apprentice dispensing optician and you earn while you learn – get a diploma or a degree while being paid. Or head to university for a degree in ophthalmic dispensing or optometry, followed by clinical experience under supervision. Explore your interests Whether you are…
GCSE results day – what’s next?
Your exam results can be key to your next steps at sixth form or college – or your chances of getting a job. But if you don’t get the grades you wanted, there are alternatives for you to consider. Just missed your grades? If you are not far off what was needed for your chosen subject you may be able to study it if your college has some flexibility. Go in on enrolment day and talk to them, with someone…
A level results day – what’s next?
Today's one of the most stressful dates for many students. It may feel like disaster if you don’t get the grades for your chosen course, but there are options. Universities still want you – more than 50,000 students find their places through Clearing every year. Many more choose apprenticeships, internships, gap years, or go straight into work. How Clearing works Universities fill spaces that are still available after results day via Clearing, matching students with places. This year the system…
Celebrate Youth Employment Week 15–19 July
Businesses can boost their engagement and recruitment strategy and young people discover fresh opportunities during Youth Employment Week from 15–19 July. Young people Find lots of information and advice about your future options at Youth Employment Week Discover carers and pathways to suit your strengths Build your skills and boost your confidence Explore lifelong learning to progress your career Employers Download your toolkit to get free resources Download activities and social media assets from the Youth Employment Week hub Use your social…
Six reasons to be a vision scientist
Ophthalmic and vision science is a little-known career, but one that offers you a great future. These specialists assess the structure and function of the eye and the visual system. They are experts in disorders of vision, eye diseases and the visual pathway. This is a great choice for many reasons. Our top six are: 1. Combine science and technology with people skills You need to be able to help and reassure patients and work with the wider, multidisciplinary healthcare…
Five reasons to choose a degree in orthoptics
1. Become a respected health professional Orthoptists are experts in diagnosing and treating defects in eye movement and problems with how the eyes work together, called binocular vision. They are registered with and regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). To qualify, they study for a degree in orthoptics. You can find out more about the course, including where you can study, here. Each university sets their own entry requirements but they usually include good GCSE Maths, English…