More than 250 students register interest in Specsavers Bright Stars scholarship

More than 250 students have so far registered interest in a new optometry scholarship programme launched by Specsavers, the multiple has revealed.

The Specsavers Bright Stars scholarship will support 40 students in the UK and the Republic of Ireland with their future university optometry studies.

The selected students will be partnered with a Specsavers practice, where they will be guaranteed part-time work and mentorship from colleagues.

They will also receive £10,000 (or €10,000 in the Republic of Ireland) to support them over four years of university.

The programme also includes the opportunity of an overseas placement, as well as social events, skills support sessions, and clinical placements with Specsavers’ homelessness partner charities.

It has been designed to promote optometry as an “incredible career option,” Lucy Knock, Specsavers early talent lead (pictured), said.

She added that the multiple has partnered with Mumsnet and the UCAS to promote the programme, and has also visited schools.

Students who have registered interest in the Bright Stars scholarship will then be asked to provide a letter of endorsement from a teacher or their parent or guardian.

Once students have formally applied for their optometry degree course they will be invited to a Specsavers Bright Room event, from which a selection process will identify the 40 Bright Stars scholars.

Students are encouraged express their interest online.