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…
Healthcare is always a popular field for young people thinking of their future careers. But it’s not just about medicine or nursing – there’s a wide range of rewarding options, for people with all kinds of talents and interests. Eyecare has pathways that appeal to all sorts of interests, skills and talents. From healthcare to fashion, technology to retail, management, design or manufacturing, there’s a role for everyone. Optics has careers that offer recruits the chance to earn while they…
Eyecare clinic Newmedica Plymouth has been named one of the UK’s Best Workplaces for Women 2025. The award recognises the firm’s commitment to championing gender equality, supporting women’s career development and fostering an inclusive work environment. Shannon Page joined 18 months ago as an ophthalmic assistant before progressing to be a service engagement co-ordinator. She says: “I feel recognised, appreciated, supported and listened to on a daily basis, so I’m very pleased to hear about this award because it really…
Retail could be the perfect place to start your working life. Our top tips from the Careers in Eyecare experts can help you get the job you want. If you are passionate about people, love checking out the latest products or have a head for business, there’s a store that’ll be the perfect environment for you. But how do you make sure that you will nail that dream job? What are the key qualities that help you get ahead? The…
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…
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…
There’s a great future waiting for you in eyecare, with lots of choice whatever your interests and skills. Whether you are planning to go into employment straight from school, head to university, or you are already working and looking for a new career, there are plenty of reasons to go into this field. Enjoy flexible training and careers Whether you want to train or work full or part-time, weekends or weekdays, there’s a job for you. More and more high…
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…
Richard Hodgson visits people in their own homes to provide optical care. He shows apprenticeships aren't just for school leavers. Richard is the first domiciliary (home visits) optical assistant to complete his apprenticeship with Specsavers – with distinction, too. He tells us why he had his sights set on the home-visits team and how his qualification has helped him achieve the role he really wanted. Life before my apprenticeship I was working in a different world of glass – double-glazing,…