What is an optical assistant apprenticeship?
If you’re ready to work for an exciting, innovative company like Specsavers, and earn while you learn valuable experience and skills, our optical assistant apprenticeship could be perfect for you.
Whether you’ve just left school or are looking for a career change, this apprenticeship will give you more job stability alongside all the training you need to kickstart your journey in optometry.
An Optical Assistant apprenticeship at Specsavers takes 15-18 months to complete. Over this time, you’ll receive comprehensive training to become a qualified Level 3 optical assistant. You will learn technical skills, interpret clinical issues for customers, and be supported by a dedicated team. As an optical assistant apprentice, you’ll also help customers find the right glasses for them.
Benefits include a regular salary, 20+ days of paid holiday per year plus bank holidays, and store-specific benefits.
The apprenticeship also opens doors to other career opportunities within Specsavers. Your managers and apprenticeship team will guide you through your options during your training.
This 15-18 month program helps develop outstanding Optical Assistants. During your apprenticeship, you’ll learn to use store systems, handle phone inquiries, book appointments, conduct screening checks, and perform repairs or adjustments on glasses.
By the end of your apprenticeship, you will have strong communication and listening skills, deliver high-quality service, and fully understand our products and services.
We support your development from day one through to your nationally recognized qualification. The apprenticeship can lead to permanent roles at Specsavers, progression to other roles, further qualifications such as training to become an optician, or specialization in retail. There’s even the potential to run your own Specsavers store in the future.
Frequently asked questions
We love questions! Check our FAQs for all the answers you need.
Optical Assistant apprentices are often the first face customers see at Specsavers. They advise on styles, take readings, and handle inquiries and bookings. This is a hands-on role in a busy store.
The apprenticeship lasts 15-18 months and is assessed through practical exercises at the end. Apprentices benefit from a dedicated Coach who monitors their skill development throughout.
Optical Assistant (Level 3) apprentices advise on suitable frames and lenses, and inform about contact lenses. A Spectacle Technician (Level 3) mainly works behind the scenes, producing and repairing spectacles with high accuracy.
You cannot be an apprentice if you have previous optical experience, as these programs are designed for newcomers. Applications are welcomed from school leavers or those seeking a career change, with GCSE Maths Grade C/4 or equivalent required.
Customer Service Apprentices help ensure excellent customer experiences, assist with sales, and learn about retail operations. This role is suitable for those with little or no prior customer service experience.
Throughout the apprenticeship, you will develop communication skills, product knowledge, and customer service expertise, which can lead to further opportunities within Specsavers.
Hearing aid dispensers and audiologists share some skills, but audiologists have additional expertise in tinnitus and balance issues. After completing a Foundation Degree in Audiology, you can qualify as a Registered Hearing Aid Dispenser (RHAD).
The duration of Hearing Aid Dispenser apprenticeships varies between 18-24 months, with assessments including practical exams and written tests. Support is provided throughout your training.
Eligibility requires being over 18, with Grade C in English and Maths or equivalent. You must work 30 hours per week and have resided in the UK or EU for the last 3 years. Exceptions may be made for older applicants on a case-by-case basis.
The apprenticeship involves on-the-job training, with about 4 hours weekly dedicated to learning activities such as shadowing, training sessions, and e-learning. Support from mentors and managers is available to help you succeed.
All training is conducted in-store or at customer homes if in domiciliary care, with no college attendance required.
Support is provided from day one, including an introductory session with other apprentices. Training is mainly virtual, utilizing technology for learning and communication.
Location specific details: Royal Wootton Bassett, Store ID 1180, permanent contract; Ashbourne, Store ID 1700, permanent contract. Both roles focus on delivering excellent customer service and optical care, with tailored descriptions highlighting the local teams and success stories.
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