Ribbon cut for University Valli Opticians in Huddersfield

The University of Huddersfield has officially opened its new on-campus eye clinic, supported by Valli Opticians.

The partnership between the university and the independent optical group was announced earlier this year to provide staff, students and members of the public an eye examination service.

The clinic also provides optometry students a real-world experience of working in practice.

The university’s chancellor, Sir George Buckley, opened the new clinic in a ribbon cutting ceremony on 14 September, attended by representatives of eye care and equipment brands including Hoya, Optos, Keeler, Haag-Streit, Nano Vista, Stepper and Body Doctor.

University Valli Opticians has a suite of equipment for eye examinations and specialist vision assessments, including imaging equipment. 

Patients are also be able to choose from a range of spectacle frames, and will be provided with a full fitting and aftercare service.

Students will develop clinical skills for optometric practice in pre-clinical teaching areas, before moving to University Valli Opticians for final year clinics.

The new clinic is being managed in partnership with Valli Opticians.

Moin Valli, managing director of Valli Opticians, commented: “We are delighted to collaborate in this innovative way with the University of Huddersfield.”

“University Valli Opticians will shape the future of optometry students by giving them substantial real-life clinical and commercial experiences of working in a proper optometry practice,” he said.

Professor John Siderov, head of the department of Optometry and Vision Science, will help to oversee the collaborative enterprise, commenting: “By working together to develop the field of optometry, University Valli Opticians will benefit the wider community, enhance the student experience as well as provide placement and employment experiences for our students.”

At the official opening of the new clinic, the university’s vice-chancellor, Professor Bob Cryan, congratulated the department on receiving full approval to provide the Optometry BSc (Hons) degree from the General Optical Council earlier this year.