Specsavers bursary to support the next generation of optometrists

Specsavers bursary to support the next generation of optometrists

A BURSARY programme to inspire and support local school pupils to pursue an optometry career is being launched by Specsavers.

The Bright Futures bursary will provide more than £2,000 of financial support to assist successful applicants on their career journey as well as helping to fund some of their chosen ophthalmic equipment. They will also be guaranteed part-time work to gain vital first-hand experience in local Specsavers practices, and benefit from mentoring and shadowing.

The programme is launching in Scotland and Northern Ireland first, with plans to then roll out the scheme across the rest of the UK. Specsavers practices will engage with local schools to identify Bright Futures stars. Applicants can also pop into their local practice to find out more.

‘The Bright Futures bursary programme has been designed to both inspire and support young people pursue a career in optometry,’ says Lucy Knock, Specsavers Early Careers Manager.

‘The Bright Futures bursary will see participating Specsavers practices welcome a local student in their final year at school to work with them – with the aim that the young person will go on to study optometry at university. Bursary recipients will benefit from mentoring and part-time work at their local practice as well as financial and equipment support through their optometry studies.’

The programme is another way for Specsavers to give back to the local communities where it operates, she says, in addition to other work such as sponsorships and charity fundraising activities.

‘Our Specsavers colleagues change lives in our communities daily and supporting a pipeline of local clinical talent to continue this important work, through the Bright Futures bursary, not only offers a rewarding career to young people but also supports community optometry into the future,’ adds Ms Knock.

You can find out more about the Bright Futures Bursary by visiting: https://join.specsavers.com/uk/explore-careers/apprenticeships-and-future-talent-at-specsavers/stem-careers-in-optometry-with-specsavers/routes-into-optometry/