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…

12 reasons to choose a career in optical sales

Optical sales representatives promote a manufacturer’s lens, frame or contact lens range to practices. You could be selling a designer brand and products that help people get the best vision possible, making a huge difference to their lives.  Why choose this career? You are a people person. This is a great role if you enjoy meeting people and have strong communication skills. You’ll visit different practices every day, explaining your range of lenses or frames, and why they would suit…