Optical Apprentice VISION EXPRESS LIMITED

What you will do in your working day

Looking for a unique retail apprenticeship opportunity? Join us at Vision Express on an 18-month program where you'll earn a level 3 qualification in Optical Retail while receiving comprehensive training and support.

What to Expect:

This isn't your typical retail apprenticeship. As part of our team, you'll have more responsibility and involvement, playing a vital role in ensuring our customers feel special. With guidance from your store manager and our apprenticeship team, you'll learn the ins and outs of bringing our brand to life, selecting the right products, and delivering personalized experiences.

As an Optical Apprentice, you'll assist customers in finding eyewear that suits their needs, handle frame adjustments, repairs, fittings, and even perform pre-screening eye examinations and administrative tasks.

Why Join Us:

At Vision Express, you'll thrive in a dynamic environment where everyone works together toward shared goals, rooted in our culture and values. We provide ample opportunities for growth and development, supporting your career ambitions every step of the way.

About Us:

We are Vision Express - with over 550 stores across the UK and Ireland, we have something for everyone. Whether you want to work in a busy city centre flagship, a smaller village store or in one of our coastal locations, we're sure we will have the perfect solution for you!
Did you know, we are also part of the EssilorLuxottica family? EssilorLuxottica is the global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of lenses, frames and sunglasses! We are home to the most loved and widely-recognised vision care and eyewear brands in the world. Their priority eyewear brands include Ray-Ban, Oakley, Costa, Vogue Eyewear, Persol and Oliver Peoples, complemented by over 20 prestigious licensed brands.

To qualify for our apprenticeship program, you should:

•  Be at least 16 years old
•  Not be engaged in full or part-time education
• Have GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths and English at Grade C/4 or above
•  Possess confidence, passion, and enthusiasm
•  Demonstrate teamwork and excellent customer service skills
•  Be willing to work between 35 and 38.75 hours per week

In addition to a rewarding career path, we offer:

•  Free eyewear annually
•  Discounts for friends and family
•  Employee Assistance Program for confidential support
• Generous annual leave

The training you will be getting

• 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 to expect at the end of your 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.