ABDO Graduation and Prize Giving

Annual ceremony took place at Canterbury Cathedral

ABDO celebrated the graduation of dispensing opticians and contact lens opticians at Canterbury Cathedral on Tuesday 12 May.

The annual ceremony is a time-honoured tradition where graduands approach the dais one by one to be congratulated by the ABDO president. The ceremonial handshake indicates the moment when graduands become graduates and become a full part of the profession of dispensing optics.

ABDO president, Kevin Gutsell, and Fiona Anderson, Master of the Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers, both addressed the graduands, along with their families and supporters in attendance. They extended their congratulations and best wishes for the future, encouraging graduates to view this milestone not as an endpoint, but as the beginning of their journey.

Prizes were awarded to students and graduates for the best achievements and top marks in exams, supported by industry sponsors.

With ABDO marking 100 years of the profession this year, the 2026 graduation is an especially memorable celebration.

Kevin Gutsell said: “Graduation is such a significant milestone for those who have dedicated three years of hard work, perseverance and commitment to achieving their goal of becoming qualified dispensing opticians. It was equally rewarding to recognise and celebrate those who have gone on to gain advanced qualifications and professional certificates, further demonstrating their dedication to excellence within the profession.

“In addition, it was a great honour to acknowledge individuals who were awarded Life Membership of ABDO, along with those receiving Honorary Membership and the prestigious Medal of Excellence. These awards recognise outstanding contribution and service to dispensing optics and the wider optical community.

“I was also delighted to spend time with graduands, their families and friends, sharing in the excitement before the ceremony and the celebrations that followed in the stunning grounds of Canterbury Cathedral.

“As always, the event was a true celebration – not only marking the successful completion of three years of study, which included challenges, determination and personal growth, but also the friendships formed along the way. It was a day to reflect on achievements, celebrate together, and look ahead with optimism to the future of dispensing optics.”

ABDO extends its congratulations to all graduates and prize winners, wishing them every success as they embark on their professional careers.

A full report of the Graduation and Prize Giving Ceremony will be included with the July/August issue of Dispensing Optics