On Tuesday 18 November, the College welcomed over 450 new optometrists to the profession in two College Diploma Ceremonies held in Westminster, London. Over 70 members awarded higher qualifications at Professional Higher Certificate or Professional Diploma level.
The ceremonies brought together newly qualified members who have been studying at universities and have completed the Scheme for Registration with the College in clinical placements across the UK to celebrate their achievements as they embark on their careers in optometry, a profession dedicated to improving vision, excellence, innovation and patient-centred care.
Qualifying optometrist and College Council Early Career Representative Katheryn Rees MCOptom said: “The Pre-registration period of our profession presents many challenges, and qualifying is an incredibly rewarding milestone. Attending the ceremony in London to celebrate this achievement alongside my peers was a truly special way to mark a meaningful end of our pre-registration journey and the exciting beginning of our professional careers together.”
Dr Gillian Rudduck MCOptom, President of The College of Optometrists, said: “Newly qualified optometrists are joining a dynamic profession at the forefront of technological advancement and clinical development. They have the skills and knowledge to make a real difference in patients’ lives, delivering high-quality care, managing complex conditions, and preserving sight.
“The Diploma Ceremony is a celebration of their hard work and commitment, and the College is proud to support our new members as they embark on a rewarding and lifelong journey of learning, growth, and professional contribution. We welcome them to the profession and to the College and congratulation our newly qualified optometrists on reaching this remarkable milestone.”
Celebrating Higher Qualifications
During the ceremonies the College also acknowledged the achievements of over 70 College members who completed a Diploma in Therapeutics - Independent Prescribing and higher qualifications at Professional Higher Certificate or Professional Diploma level in Glaucoma, Medical Retina and Low Vision.
Clair Bulpin MCOptom DipTp (IP), commented: “We are so lucky as a profession to have the opportunities to continue to grow and expand our skills over the course of our careers. Independent prescribing is the next chapter for me in continuing to strive to put the patient at the heart of the care we can provide. The support I received from the University course team, my placement supervisors and the fellow students you meet along the way was invaluable - it is so lovely to be able to celebrate together! Balancing work and life commitments alongside any study is always a challenge, but this journey has definitely been worth it and I'm excited to see where it leads me.”
Dr Gillian Rudduck added: “More and more optometrists are opting to complete higher qualifications to expand their clinical skills and scope of practice to provide enhanced services for patients, progress their career path into leadership and specialist roles, and to gain a professional affix for their expertise. We congratulate all our members who have completed Higher Qualifications and commend their ongoing commitment to their personal development, the profession, and to providing excellent patient care.”
The ceremonies took place in Central Hall, a Grade II listed building in the heart of Westminster, which once again provided a fitting backdrop for newly qualified members to celebrate with their family, friends and peers.
