The General Optical Council (GOC) is seeking new dispensing optician (DO) members for its Education Visitor Panel – and ABDO president, Jo Holmes, is encouraging members to apply.
The optical regulator is seeking up to four DOs, preferably with a contact lens specialty, to join the panel – which is also made up of optometrists, ophthalmologists and lay members.
The role of panel members is to visit and assess education, training and assessment providers offering optical qualifications – and then to recommend to Council whether to grant approval for new qualifications, continue to approve existing qualifications, or withdraw approval.
The panel will also play a critical role in facilitating any developments arising from the GOC’s ongoing Education Strategic Review (ESR).
Jo commented: “ABDO strongly encourages members to consider taking up the challenge of applying to become a member of the GOC’s Education Visitor Panel.
“Your participation on the panel could help to safeguard and assure the quality and standards of optical education providers as we move into uncertain times and, ultimately, secure the protection of the public now and into the future.”
The deadline for applications is 12pm Friday 7 August. Find out how to apply on the GOC website.
The GOC is also seeking a new lay chair to replace Gareth Hadley this autumn, when it will begin a recruitment drive for new council members.