From the shopfloor to hearing aid dispenser and clinical lead: Stephanie's story

Discover how Stephanie Whittall built a rewarding career at Specsavers Yeovil - starting on the shopfloor and progressing through apprenticeships to become a hearing aid dispenser and clinical lead.

A career built on curiosity and care

Stephanie Whittall’s journey with Specsavers began over eight years ago on the optical shopfloor. But it was her curiosity about the hearing side of the business that sparked a new direction.

“I was always asking questions and helping where I could. I found it really interesting.”

That interest soon turned into opportunity. Stephanie took on the Hearing Care Assistant (HCA) course, followed by the Hearing Aid Dispenser (HAD) qualification. Today, she’s not only a qualified HAD at Specsavers Yeovil, but also stepping into a Clinical Lead role- while studying for her Level 6 BSc (Hons) Audiology top-up degree and a Level 2 Management course.

Learning while leading

Stephanie’s apprenticeship journey is a little different from most. Already well-established in the business, she’s now using the apprenticeship route to deepen her clinical knowledge and leadership skills.

“Specsavers is a place that helps you learn and achieve your goals.”

She’s only a week into her top-up degree but already feels the impact of being trusted to take on more.

“Being allowed to do the course because my manager and director believe in me- and want me to bring better training to my colleagues- is really rewarding.”

Support that makes a difference

Throughout her journey, Stephanie has felt consistently supported by her team.

“They’re always there to help in any way they can. And they’re ready to pick me up if I feel overwhelmed or unsure about myself.”

That encouragement has helped her take on new challenges with confidence- from clinical responsibilities to mentoring others.

Looking to the future

Stephanie’s passion for teaching and helping others is clear. She’s already thinking about how she can use her skills to support her team- and beyond.

“I really enjoy teaching people and helping my team learn new skills. I find it very rewarding.”

Her ambitions also extend to global healthcare. One day, she hopes to work with a charity that provides hearing care to people in countries where access is limited.

“It would be an eye-opener, to see how charities help and how we can apply healthcare to change someone’s life. It’s something we can take for granted here.”

Why apprenticeships work

Stephanie is a strong advocate for the apprenticeship route, especially for those who thrive in hands-on environments.

“I feel there’s only so much you can learn in a classroom. Real-life working gives you a better understanding of the role.”

She’s proof that apprenticeships aren’t just for those starting out- they’re also a powerful way to grow, specialise and lead.

“Specsavers has been one of the best jobs I’ve had. I can’t see myself anywhere else.”