Apprentice Optical Assistant DAVIS OPTOMETRISTS LTD

As an Optical Assistant Apprentice, you will be carrying out some day-to-day duties as well as developing certain skills and expanding your role over a period of time. You will be measuring the frames and ensure they are a suitable size for a customer and can accommodate their lenses, plus much more. The role of an Optical Assistant changes day-to-day and will develop during the course of your apprenticeship, making it an exciting and interesting position to be involved in!

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Closing date: 27 Oct 2023

Apprenticeship summary

  • Annual wage

    £13,520.00

  • Working week

    Working week to be confirmed at interview

    Total hours per week: 40.0

  • Expected duration

    18 Months

  • Possible start date

    06 Nov 2023

  • Date posted

    19 Jul 2023

  • Apprenticeship level

    Advanced
    Level 3 (A level)

  • Reference number

    VAC1000184360

  • Positions

    1 available

What will the apprentice be doing?

We are looking for an enthusiastic individual to join our team as an Optical Assistant Apprentice. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is interested in pursuing a career in the optical industry and looking to gain valuable experience and skills.

You will also have the opportunity to learn about the latest optical technology and trends, and gain experience in a fast-paced and dynamic industry. This is a fun and exciting role that offers the chance to work with a great team of people, and to develop skills that will be valuable throughout your career.

As our new apprentice, you will be working alongside our experienced team members to provide excellent customer service to our clients. You will be responsible for tasks such as;

  • Greeting customers in a professional and friendly manner as they enter the practice
  • Interpreting and understanding a clinically issued prescription, its effects on the eye, and the customer's vision
  • Helping customer's select spectacle frame(s) that are suitable in terms of comfort, looks good and fits lifestyle requirements
  • Be able to explain the features and benefits of particular frames, using non-technical customer friendly language
  • Measuring the frames and ensure they are a suitable size for a customer and can accommodate their lenses
  • Making adjustments to customers spectacle frames using the correct tools to ensure stability and comfort
  • Basic frame repairs
  • Have a good knowledge of Ophthalmic lenses, tints and coatings to be able to meet visual/lifestyle requirements 
  • Ordering prescription glasses and contact lenses in for the customer
  • Correct completion of NHS paperwork and written records in-line with company procedures
  • Making follow up appointments for customers
  • Use a focimetre to find the prescription from spectacles
  • Communicate contact lenses suitability, features and benefits
  • Carrying out pre-screening tests such as retinal imaging and pressure and visual field testing
  • Explaining offers and products to customers
  • Taking payments from customers
  • Being able to problem solve with basic optical concerns
  • Understanding business KPI's and how they affect the practices profitability

COMPANY BENEFITS:

  • Your birthday off work
  • No Sunday or bank holiday working
  • Access to Simply Health (claim cash-back on health-care purchases)
  • Retail discounts
  • Cycle to work scheme

What training will the apprentice take and what qualification will the apprentice get at the end?

  • Level 3 Optical Assistant Apprenticeship
  • Functional Skills Level 2 in Functional skills maths and Literacy, can be obtained on the course (if required)
  • Enhancement / challenge - how to develop ourselves
  • Equality and diversity - treating others equally, respect/accept others from different backgrounds
  • British values - democracy, rule of law, respect and tolerance, individual liberty
  • Prevent - safeguarding individuals from being drawn into terrorism
  • Digital skills - keeping up with technology and effective use

What is the expected career progression after this apprenticeship?

The successful candidate will work towards achieving a level 3 qualification in Optical with experience in a busy Optical Practice.

Upon completion of the Level 3 qualification, you will be an experienced and qualified optical assistant, and as such you can continue building up skills that will always be in demand. Career breaks and part time working are often possible.

You could go on to acquire higher level optical qualifications such as:

  • Ophthalmic Dispensing- Become a qualified Dispensing Optician
  • Contact lens Optician - fit Contact lenses
  • Low vision specialist - help people where traditional spectacles will not suffice. Supply low vision aids, magnifiers, advice on improving contrast and on other non-Optical aids such as bump-ons
  • Optometry courses - carry out full eye examinations and issue prescriptions
  • Clinical representative- visiting practices introducing new frame ranges and Ophthalmic lenses
  • In-practice trainer - You could use your knowledge to train others

Other non-clinical roles:

  • Practice Management - Go into a Management course
  • Practice ownership - Go into business yourself, partnership or Franchise

Requirements and prospects

Desired skills and personal qualities

Communication skills, Attention to detail, Organisation skills, Customer care skills, Team working, Initiative, Non judgemental, Patience

Qualifications

GCSE or equivalent English (Grade 4/C or above) Essential
GCSE or equivalent Maths (Grade 4/C or above) Essential

Things to consider

Please do not contact Company direct. Please note; we reserve the right to close any vacancies from further applications when we have received a suitable number of applications from which to make a shortlist. Please ensure you apply ASAP if you wish to be considered for this role.

About the employer

Founded in the 1970's. We are a family oriented practice, with a highly qualified team that has worked together for many years. As an independent optician, we value professionalism, excellence and providing a bespoke service.

Employer

DAVIS OPTOMETRISTS LTD

Address

58 High Street

Olney

MK46 4BE

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Training

Training provider

TRAINING 2000 LIMITED

Contact

Lauren Reddaway

lauren.reddaway@t2000.co.uk

01254 54659

Apprenticeship standard

Optical assistant 2022

Level 3 (A level)


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