Your next step
Your final stage of training is where your clinical knowledge, confidence and future career come together.
At Specsavers, you'll gain hands-on experience in practice, supported by experienced supervisors, structured development and a large professional network.
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Why choose Specsavers?
- Practical clinical experience from day one
- Support from experienced supervisors and your store team
- Academy learning tailored to your degree programme
- Access to OCT and other clinical technology
- Development that continues beyond qualification
- Career pathways in clinical practice, leadership and partnership.
Your route to qualification
Routes to qualification vary by university and degree programme. Whether you are completing CLiP, the Scheme for Registration, a long placement or another recognised route, we will support you through the requirements and milestones that apply to you.
You could go on to develop specialist clinical interests, lead a team, support future students or explore partnership.
Real experience in practice
You'll join a clinical team and build your skills through real patient care. Depending on your stage of training, this could include:
- Conducting eye examinations with increasing independence
- Supporting patients with a range of eye health needs
- Developing clinical decision-making with experienced clinicians
- Using technology such as OCT Managing patient cases in a busy practice environment
You'll learn by doing, with support around you as your confidence grows.
Support to help you succeed
You'll be supported by your supervisor, store team and wider professional network. You'll also have guidance from our Early Talent team before you start, plus regular feedback and development conversations throughout your training.
Alongside your learning in practice, you will have access to a dedicated Academy programme tailored to your degree route. The format, content and number of training days will vary by programme so that the support reflects your requirements.
We don't just help you complete your assessments. We help you grow as a clinician. You can access additional clinical learning, professional networks and practical resources to support your development.
What happens after qualification?
Qualifying is a major milestone, but it's only the start of what's possible. You could:
- Continue developing in your store
- Explore opportunities across the UK and Ireland
- Build specialist clinical expertise
- Mentor future students
- Move into leadership
- Explore partnership opportunities
- Build your career with Newmedica
You'll also have access to ongoing learning, events and development opportunities. We're invested in your whole career, not just your training period.
Where could you be based?
We offer opportunities in stores across the UK and Ireland. Our stores are locally owned and led by partners, with teams committed to your learning and development.
Looking for an opportunity? Contact our Early Talent team to discuss available locations, application routes or international opportunities in the UK.
What you'll get
Your salary and package will vary by store and location. You can expect:
- A structured programme aligned to your training route
- Support with assessments and professional development
- Clinical learning and development opportunities
- A supportive and welcoming team
- Access to WeCare, Headspace and other online health and wellbeing support for you and your immediate family
- Relocation support where available
How to apply
Application processes and timescales vary by university and degree programme. Some routes use a university or professional body portal.
Contact our Early Talent team for guidance on the process that applies to you. If your application progresses, we will connect you with store partners to arrange an interview. You're likely to meet the store partner and/or your future supervisor, so you can get to know the people who will support your development and make sure the opportunity feels right for you.
Take the next step Contact our Early Talent team for information about applications and opportunities.
Get in touch
Ready for your next step?
Start your optometry career with practical experience, tailored learning and a network of people ready to support you.
Get in touch with our Early Talent team.
Contact us
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