The ceremonies took place in Central Hall, a Grade II listed building in the heart of Westminster, which once again provided a fitting backdrop to celebrate the achievements of this year’s newly qualified members.

During the ceremonies, the College awarded seven new Life Fellowships and two new Honorary Fellowships for their outstanding contribution to the profession or to the College. The College also welcomed a new Fellowship by Portfolio in recognition of their achievement in the workplace and outstanding contributions to furthering excellence in the practice of optometry.

The event included the presentation of the College’s prestigious Research Excellence Awards. The Awards recognise the outstanding work of talented and committed individuals working in the fields of optometry, optics, and vision science.

Dr Gillian Rudduck MCOptom the College President said, “The Diploma Ceremony marks a significant milestone in qualified optometrists’ professional careers, and also as new members of The College of Optometrists. As their professional body, the College will ensure they have access to the resources, guidance and professional development needed for them to meet their professional goals.This is the start of an exciting new chapter for over 500 new optometrists, and I extend my congratulations to them all. We wish them every success in their future careers in optometry.”