This is a landmark year for the Orthoptic Profession as we ready ourselves to launch the first ever BSc Orthoptic apprenticeship programme at The University of Sheffield.
Apprenticeships already provide routes into a variety of careers in the NHS and are an excellent opportunity to earn, gain work experience and achieve nationally recognised qualifications at the same time. Apprenticeships are a key way for people to learn on the job, both for new starters to the NHS and for existing members of staff, allowing learners the opportunity to gain a qualification and apply their learning while continuing to earn a salary.
The Orthoptic apprenticeship is more than just a new course; it is a fundamental shift in how we diversify and grow our Orthoptic workforce. Recruitment difficulties disproportionately impact some UK regions, and the new apprenticeship provides a real solution, ensuring high-quality orthoptic care is accessible everywhere. Using predominantly online, synchronous teaching alongside salaried clinical experience, we aim to:
- Diversify our profession: Breaking down financial and regional barriers to entry and attracting a wider range of talent.
- Strengthen the NHS pipeline: Delivering "work-ready" clinicians who have been immersed in patient care from day one.
- Support lifelong learning: Providing a robust pathway for those already working in healthcare to elevate their clinical skills to a professional level.
Learn more here: BSc Orthoptics apprenticeship | Allied Health Professions, Pharmacy, Nursing and Midwifery | The University of Sheffield
