Making a real impact as a dispensing optician

“My life really centres around my dog at the minute,” she shares.

Whether it’s beach walks, park visits, or countryside hikes, Amy ensures Aurora stays active and happy.

“We need to keep her active. Otherwise, she is absolutely bonkers,” she said.

A journey of growth and dedication

Amy’s career at Specsavers began with a vision for growth. Starting as an optical assistant, she quickly recognised the potential to expand her skills and make a more significant impact.

“I wanted to help customers holistically, rather than referring complex cases to colleagues,” she explains. This drive led her to pursue a career as a dispensing optician.

Balancing a full-time course with a full-time job was no small feat, but Amy had unwavering support from her team and directors.

“If you need time off for exams or other commitments, they always try to organise it,” she says. This support extended beyond her immediate team, with guidance from qualified dispensing opticians and support office teams.

Making a difference every day

One of the most rewarding aspects of Amy’s role is the opportunity to make a real difference in her patients’ lives. The Swansea store’s significant NHS contract allows Amy to see a diverse range of patients, including those referred from hospitals and other optical practices.

“We see quite a lot of low vision patients here, which you most likely won’t get exposure to in other places," she notes. Helping these patients directly is incredibly fulfilling for Amy.

A supportive and appreciative environment

At Specsavers, Amy feels truly valued and respected. “The directors and team are very open with their appreciation. If you do something well, they’re the first to tell you,” she said.

This supportive environment is bolstered by a strong team of optical assistants who have pursued additional qualifications, enhancing their expertise and reliability.

A close-knit community

The culture at Swansea Specsavers is close-knit and family-like.

“There's no hierarchy here. We all work together and are really close,” Amy said.

This sense of belonging extends to the entire Specsavers network, creating a supportive community of dispensing opticians across various stores.

Personal and professional growth

Amy’s journey at Specsavers has been one of continuous growth. “I’ve already spoken to Chris, our retail director, about doing the professional certificate in paediatric eye care this year," she shares.

Beyond professional development, Specsavers has inspired Amy to better herself in other ways. For instance, she and her colleagues requested a sign language course to better communicate with hard-of-hearing patients, which the directors supported and funded.

Looking to the future

Amy’s aspirations include becoming a low vision practitioner, a field she fell in love with during her dispensing optician course. Her five-year plan involves relocating to Australia with her partner and continuing her journey with Specsavers.

“The support for relocation within the Specsavers family is fantastic,” she says.

Amy is also considering becoming a contact lens optician in the future, but is currently focused on mastering her role and advancing in low vision care.

Why choose Specsavers?

In Amy’s words, “It’s the support. From the directors to the team, the support is second to none. Specsavers is with you every step of the way, from the start of your course to the finish. It’s a place where you can grow, learn, and make a real impact.”

The support extends beyond the store. Amy received invaluable guidance from Kirsteen Newman, head of dispensing development at Specsavers,and regional trainer Kate, who were both instrumental in her journey. This is a testament to the wider Specsavers network and the resources available to help you succeed.

Join Amy and the Specsavers team and make a real difference. Find out more here.