Hakim Group holds inaugural SPA day

Max Halford and Aaron Holman chat with delegates

The inaugural Hakim Group SPA (Share, Progress, Achieve) CPD event took place last Sunday 10 September, with participation from several ABDO team members.

Held at the Bolton Whites Hotel, the full-day programme offered dispensing opticians and optometrists a range of CPD and insight opportunities – including a paediatric dispensing workshop run by Dr Alicia Thompson, ABDO director of education, research and professional development.

Speakers were selected from within the group’s independent practice network and included Professor Nicholas Rumney, Paul Adler, Dr Keyur Patel and Professor Simon Barnard. Joining Dr Thompson as an external expert was Professor Pearse Keane, ophthalmologist and artificial intelligence expert.

“SPA CPD is a testament to our commitment towards the continuous advancement of optometry professionals and the optical industry as a whole,” said Claire Slade, head of professional advancement and governance at the Hakim Group.

“We wanted to create an environment that encourages learning, sharing and interaction amongst our peers. Our selection of speakers reflected this goal, offering a perfect blend of practical and visionary perspectives that will both educate and entertain. We designed this forum to foster an atmosphere of learning and reciprocity.”

Dr Thompson told DO Online: “The delegates at the conference were really engaged in my discussion workshop on paediatric dispensing. It was a pleasure to be part of this inaugural conference.”

Max Halford, ABDO clinical lead, and Aaron Holman, ABDO membership officer, also attended the conference to engage with delegates.

Aaron said: “We were pleased to see our members at the event, which was a great opportunity for optical professionals across the Hakim Group to network with industry suppliers as well as take part in the varied CPD on offer. ABDO extends its thanks to the group for the invitation to be involved.”