The Sector Partnership for Optical Knowledge and Education (SPOKE) has secured funding from the Central Optical Fund to expand its work with a new 18-month project to inspire an early interest in careers in eyecare among primary and secondary school pupils.
SPOKE is led by Professor Lizzy Ostler from the College of Optometrists, Miranda Richardson from ABDO, and Joy Myint from the Optometry Schools Council.
The steering group created the proposal after an earlier SPOKE project on Admissions and Recruitment identified the need to increase interest in and applications to join the professions.
The newly-funded project will develop careers and outreach learning resources to be piloted and evaluated by optical registrants and in schools in four locations.
The resources will provide optical registrants with training and materials for local careers outreach activities, supporting them to deliver engaging and inspiring sessions to attract interest in careers in optical professions. This supports the sector’s ambition to promote optometry and ophthalmic dispensing as first-choice career options for applicants.
The project launched on Friday 3 July with an online round table scoping meeting, bringing together delegates from sector employers, education providers and other bodies to shape development of the project. The project will focus on increasing awareness of the breadth, impact and rewards of careers in optometry, ophthalmic dispensing and the wider sector.
Professor Lizzy Ostler, director of education at the College of Optometrists, said: “This funding from the Central Optical Fund will allow us to work with colleagues across the sector to develop high-quality, engaging training and resources for outreach to schools, by practitioners and organisations. By investing in outreach now, we can help inspire the next generation of professionals and strengthen the future workforce.”
Charles Barlow, representing the Central Optical Fund, commented: “The Central Optical Fund is delighted to support the expansion of the SPOKE programme. Encouraging young people to consider careers in eye care is essential for the future of our professions, and we are pleased to contribute to a project that brings together employers, education providers and practitioners. This initiative has the potential to make a lasting difference by giving young people a clearer understanding of the opportunities available and by equipping the sector with the tools needed to engage with future generations.”
Miranda Richardson, director of professional qualifications at ABDO, said: “I am delighted that the Central Optical Fund has chosen to support this important next phase of the SPOKE programme. This funding will enable us to work collaboratively across the sector to develop inspiring careers resources and outreach activities that showcase the breadth and impact of careers in optometry and ophthalmic dispensing.
“By engaging with young people at an early stage, we have a real opportunity to raise awareness of the professions, inspire future talent and help build a strong and sustainable eyecare workforce for the future,” Miranda added.