Optical Assistants
NES is committed to supporting all members of staff who provide services to patients seen under the General Ophthalmic Services contract. Optical Assistants increasingly provide support in optical practices around Scotland. NES is committed to enabling support staff to develop their full potential by understanding the nature and purpose of the highly technical screening and preliminary examinations they carry out.
- Do you know what astigmatism is?
- Can you explain cataract or glaucoma or macular degeneration in simple terms for the patient worried about their eye health?
- Do you look at the visual field printout and wonder what it means?
In collaboration with the Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers Educational Trust, NES has developed a course in Optical Care designed to support the Optical Assistant. The successful student gains 31 level 5 credits (Scottish Qualifications Authority). These points are transferrable and could be used to gain access to a professional vocational course like Dispensing Optics. The course ran for the first time in 2010/11 and 27 candidates were successful.
The programme is a blended mix of lectures, workshops (where the latest equipment is available) and course work, with guidance from remote tutors. The student sits a final exam after 6-8 months. This course requires considerable commitment from the student. The course and examination are fully funded by NES. The Autumn 2011 course will be located in Stirling and Aberdeen.
Recent Developments!
NES is funding a Level 7 Optical Care programme which will commence in May 2012. Enrolment is now open and places will be allocated on a first come first served basis after receipt of an application form For details of the f ull syllabus follow the link.
Orthoptic Assistants
The support role provided by Orthoptic Assistants mirrors the Optical Assistant in Optometry Practices. The Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers has adapted the course to provide material to support this role. 5 places on the NES funded Optical Care course are reserved to support these staff.
For further information on the courses available contact clerk@spectaclemakers.com
