SPOKE secures funding for careers outreach initiative

The Sector Partnership for Optical Knowledge and Education (SPOKE) has secured funding from the Central Optical Fund for a new 18-month project to inspire early interest in careers in eye care among primary and secondary school pupils.

The project, which launched on 3 July, will develop careers and outreach learning resources to be piloted and evaluated by optical registrants and in schools in four locations.

The project will focus on increasing awareness of the “breadth, impact and rewards of careers in optometry, ophthalmic dispensing and the wider sector.”

The resources will provide optical registrants with training and materials in order to support them to provide engaging sessions for local careers outreach activities.

The proposal was established after a previous SPOKE project on admissions and recruitment identified the need to increase interest in and applications to join the optical professions.

SPOKE is led by Professor Lizzy Ostler, director of education at The College of Optometrists, Miranda Richardson, professional qualifications director at the Association of British Dispensing Opticians, and Professor Joy Myint, chair of the Optometry Schools Council.

Ostler explained that the funding would enable SPOKE to work with colleagues across the sector to deliver “high-quality, engaging training and resources for outreach to schools, by practitioners and organisations.”

“By investing in outreach now, we can help inspire the next generation of professionals and strengthen the future workforce,” she added.

The project launched with an online round table bringing together delegates from sector employers, education providers, and other bodies to shape the development of the project.

Charles Barlow, representing the Central Optical Fund, said: “Encouraging young people to consider careers in eye care is essential for the future of our professions, and we are pleased to contribute to a project that brings together employers, education providers and practitioners.”

He added: “This initiative has the potential to make a lasting difference by giving young people a clearer understanding of the opportunities available and by equipping the sector with the tools needed to engage with future generations.”