The apprenticeship that re-wrote my story

Georga Harrison is proud to be part of our Poole store as it celebrates its 40th anniversary this month. Having started her journey here as an apprentice, she’s grown into her role as retail manager. Her story shows just how far an apprenticeship can take you.

Leaving sixth form

“My dream job was to become a funeral director. I tried to get into the industry while I was still at school, but it was really difficult to break into. After finishing my A-levels, I knew I wanted to work full time, so I found myself scrolling through the internet looking for opportunities that stood out to me.

That’s when I came across a Specsavers apprenticeship. I knew apprenticeships offered structured learning, which really appealed to me. But I’ll be honest; I didn’t think optics or retail was for me. I couldn’t have told you anything about eyes, and I had this misconception that Specsavers was mainly for an older generation. I’d seen the adverts, but I didn’t really understand what a career here could look like.

Looking back, I couldn’t have been more wrong.

Building foundations

One of the biggest things I’ve realised is just how much I learned through that structured programme. Having a clear training plan, supported by online learning, made such a difference.

Now, when I see people trying to learn everything on the job without that framework, I really appreciate how valuable the apprenticeship was. It didn’t just teach me the role - it gave me the confidence and knowledge to help train others too.

My managers believed in me

After my apprenticeship, I progressed into an Optical Assistant role, then spent time dispensing and pre-testing. When Covid hit, everything changed. Like many others, I had to step up and adapt, doing a bit of everything as the store found its feet again.

It wasn’t always easy. I had to rebuild my confidence, especially in areas I wasn’t as strong in. But that experience really pushed me forward.

When a supervisor role came up, my managers encouraged me to go for it. That support meant everything. Not long after, the opportunity to become a retail manager came up. And, again, they believed in me. So I went for it.

I’ve now been in this role for a few years, and it still feels surreal.

The confidence to grow.

Having that solid understanding of optics has been so important. It gave me the confidence to then step into management and learn that side of the business too.

Beyond the technical knowledge, I gained so many transferable skills: how to build relationships, how to handle different situations, how to communicate with all kinds of people. Those are skills I use every single day as a manager.

Every day is different

What I enjoy most is the people. I’m lucky to work with such a great team. We support each other, even on the tougher days.

I also love the variety. You meet people from all walks of life, and every day brings something new. It keeps things interesting and makes the role so rewarding.

Looking back to where it began

When I look back at where I started, compared to where I am now, it’s amazing. I’ve had opportunities like attending Partner Seminar, which really opened my eyes to what’s possible here.

Some days, it still feels like I’ve only just started because there’s always something new to learn. And even though this wasn’t my ‘dream job’ growing up, if I was offered that dream job now, I genuinely wouldn’t take it.

I love what I do. I feel secure, supported, and excited about what’s next.

In fact, I’m starting my Dispensing Optician apprenticeship soon, so it’s back to learning again. Who knows where it might lead? That’s the best part - I have options.

Being part of a 40-year story means a lot

Working in a store that’s been part of the community for 40 years is something I’m really proud of. Not many businesses have that kind of longevity.

It shows the strength of the business, the people in it, and the impact it has on the community. I feel lucky to be part of that story.

If you’re thinking about an apprenticeship — go for it

Choosing an apprenticeship was one of the best decisions I’ve made. It gave me structure, experience, and the chance to earn while I learned.

I honestly believe more people should consider it as their first choice after education. At our store, we love apprentices, and we’ve seen first-hand just how far they can go”.