08 February 2025
Whether you are attending 100% Optical for the first time this year or are a frequent show visitor, as the show prepares to open its doors for its 11th year, we asked a trio of AOP education experts and seasoned 100% Optical show-goers for their top tips for making the most out of this year’s show.
From planning your attendance to how to tackle and navigate the show’s extensive floor, with over 250 brands exhibiting and more than 100 CPD sessions over the three days, we hope these suggestions help you to make the most of 100% Optical 2025.
Dr Ian Beasley
1 Pre-show: reflect and be ready
"Take time to revisit your Reflective exercise from the last cycle via the GOC portal. Here, you’ll be able to view the aspirations you captured for building your personal development plan in the current cycle. With this to hand, you can identify sessions in advance that help you to meet your learning outcomes.”
2 At the show: find a balance
“Aim to balance your time to get the most out of the event. With well over 100 CPD sessions on the programme, it’s easy to spend the whole day in the education theatres. Take time to visit exhibitors of interest to learn about new products and tech that can help you to support your patients and practice.”
Ceri Smith-Jaynes
1 Pre-show: who, what, where, when
“I consult the show map and make myself a short spreadsheet and colour code things I don’t want to miss versus things I’d like to see if there is time. I also plan my shoes – comfort over style for this one.”
2 At the show: get chatting
“So many events are online these days, so I endeavour to use the time in between meetings and CPD sessions to reconnect and start a conversation with people I might not already know. Queues are a good place to meet new folk, or chat to the person next to you when you’re waiting for a CPD session to start.”
Dr Byki Huntjens
1 Pre-show: get social
“Scope out the event buzz online. Follow the show’s social media channels for last-minute updates, sneak peeks, and networking hints. It’s a fun way to catch new and interesting topics and plan for a day full of (clinical) surprises.”
2 At the show: interact
“Engage proactively by networking with peers, and dare to ask questions, especially during interactive sessions. Explore new technologies and product demos, share your live take on social media, and don’t forget to scribble down your thoughts for post-event reflection.”
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