Optics to audiology – how my apprenticeship changed my life

Harry Ambler, trainee Hearing Aid Dispenser and former Apprentice Spectacle Technician, tells us his story so far, including how he had the support of his directors and colleagues during his studies and unexpected journey to becoming a father.

Discovering my path during the pandemic

“When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, I was in the middle of my A-levels. The sudden closure of schools in March 2020 meant I was never able to complete year 13. I enjoyed sixth form, but the lockdown left me in a stagnant position where I couldn't do much. It was during this time that I started looking for job opportunities and stumbled upon an apprenticeship for a lab technician at Specsavers.

It looked interesting and felt like it suited me. I was searching for a role that wasn't customer facing since I was quite an introverted person at this point, so after learning about the nature of the job, I felt it was the perfect role for me. I applied for the position, and after an interview with the director, I was invited to see the lab in action. Speaking with the lab technician and seeing the role firsthand made me realise this was something I wanted to pursue. My previous experience helping my dad in a warehouse during the summers gave me a good foundation for the lab work. I left the interview feeling optimistic and was thrilled to receive a job offer a few days later.

Choosing the right apprenticeship

What truly drew me in to the lab technician apprenticeship was seeing the role in person. It was fascinating to understand how the lab and the shop floor were interdependent. Initially, I had reservations about apprenticeships in general, thinking they took too long to lead to entry-level positions; however, given the competitive job market, I wanted a role where I could progress and learn about the industry. This was it.

Support and growth

Specsavers provided incredible support throughout my apprenticeship training. I had three main mentors: a dispensing optician who went above and beyond to help me, an amazing apprenticeship coach, and a colleague who shared in-depth practical insights. Their guidance helped me pass my apprenticeship… with distinction!

As I neared the end of my course, I began discussing moving to the shop floor with the clinical director. I needed to break out of my comfort zone and work on improving my social skills and tackling new challenges, so I was allowed to split my time between the lab and the shop floor. I’ve gone from a quiet, shy, reserved man to a complete chatterbox.

My Retail director had fully trained, coached, and supported me through a crash course in dispensing, where I learned so much on the job and could dispense glasses to customers and follow the glasses through the entire manufacturing process.

Transitioning to new roles

My role then evolved from being a dispenser to handling more problem-solving tasks. Continuing to split my time between the lab and the shop floor, I’d deal with customer issues making sure they’re resolved right first time and learning the intricacies of dispensing. In February 2024, I found out I was going to be a dad which was unexpected but amazing news; this then prompted me to explore further opportunities in optics to secure my family’s future.

As I enjoyed the customer interaction and dispensing glasses, I considered moving into domiciliary (home visits) and was offered a position there, but I was then counter-offered a Hearing Aid Dispenser (HAD) training course by the audiology director as he was able to see my potential for me in the clinical world. After thoroughly discussing it with my partner, I decided to pursue this opportunity in audiology. The course has been challenging but rewarding, and I discovered my passion for one-on-one interactions with patients. It’s where I really flourish.

Defining my career goals

My apprenticeship helped me realise that there are many avenues to explore within the industry. Initially, I thought I would stay in the lab for a long time, but I don’t want to sit still for too long. Once I qualify as a HAD, I plan to take a couple of years to enjoy my role before considering further movement. My goal is to help build the business and get more involved in training, as I enjoy teaching the optical team about audiology services. I feel this is somewhere I can really make a difference. If someone had asked me during sixth form where I’d see myself in five years, I would never have been able to guess this. I could not be happier.

My journey with Specsavers has been completely transformative, and I feel very confident and excited about my future here”.