£400,000 optometry scholarship programme attracting strong interest

HUNDREDS of students have registered their interest in a new £400,000 scholarship programme launched by Specsavers to promote optometry as a career.

The Specsavers Bright Stars scholarship will support 40 selected students in key target areas of the UK and the Republic of Ireland with their university optometry studies. The selected students will also partner up with local practices as part of the scheme, which also includes the opportunity of an overseas placement.

‘We’ve been visiting schools as well as teaming up with Mumsnet and UCASto connect to students to talk about why optometry is such an incredible career option and to promote the new scholarship,’ says Lucy Knock, Specsavers Early Talent Lead.

‘The response has been absolutely fantastic, with more than 250 students registering interest in applying for the programme. Interested students can still make an expression of interest by heading to https://join.specsavers.com/uk/specsavers-bright-stars-scholarship/. A selection process with then follow to find the 40 Bright Stars scholars.’

Selected students will also benefit from social events, skills support sessions and clinical placements with Specsavers’ homelessness partner charities alongside paid part time work experience and financial support. ‘In the third year, the top performing 25% of students will earn a place on an overseas eye health programme,’ adds Ms Knock.