Vision Express marks fifth year of apprenticeship scheme 

Almost 150 people have successfully completed Vision Express’ apprenticeship scheme since it was launched five years ago.

The multiple welcomed its latest cohort of 19 students onto the programme last month, with around 80 apprentices currently enrolled on the scheme.

Vision Express established its 13-month employer-embedded apprenticeship programme in 2014, offering students a Level 2 optical assistant apprenticeship or an intermediate apprenticeship in optical retail. In October last year, the multiple extended the programme to include a Level 3 pathway.

In 2017, the scheme received a ‘good’ Ofsted rating across all areas of the programme.

Of the almost 150 trainees who have completed the programme since its establishment, more than half remain working for Vision Express.

Vision Express highlighted that all apprentices who successfully complete the scheme are given the opportunity to secure a full-time position as an optical assistant with the multiple, with further training available.

Having joined the multiple as an apprentice herself, director of human resources, Kate Glasby said: “We're thrilled to celebrate the five-year anniversary of our apprenticeship scheme. At Vision Express, we're fully committed to further investment into apprenticeships, continuing to ensure the highest quality of the programmes we deliver for those who join us.”

Pictured is Owen Bairstow, a former apprentice who is now a store manager for Vision Express in Worcester.