University of Leicester officially launches optometry degree

Guests received a tour of new clinical facilities at a launch event for the University of Leicester Master’s of Optometry programme on 9 July.

Students on the programme will be based at the Robert Kilpatrick Clinical Sciences Building within the Leicester Royal Infirmary.

The refurbished space includes a seminar room with a digital video slit lamp microscope and 20 clinical cubicles that replicate optometrist consulting rooms.

In conversation with OT at the event, optometry programme lead, Professor Christian French, reflected on the milestone of officially launching the course.

“To go from seeing the architects’ drawings, the equipment lists and specifications to opening the space today is quite surreal,” he said.

“I’m very proud to see how far it has come and I’m proud of the team who I have working with me,” French shared.

Sharing his vision for the education students would receive at the University of Leicester, French highlighted the importance of giving students the skills they need to perform in the workplace when they graduate.

“It’s about looking at what an optometrist needs to be able to do at the end of their degree,” he said.

“We need to make sure our graduates are employable and that we focus on those core optometry skills, but we also need to teach them broader skills, such as communication and resilience,” French observed.

OT

Professor Christian French at the launch of the University of Leicester Master’s of Optometry programme

The optometrist told OT that his approach to developing the optometry curriculum has been informed by University of Leicester’s historical roots – the university is one of a select few educational institutions worldwide that was established as a living memorial following World War I.

“There is this sense that your education is a gift that you carry with you for life. Wherever you go, that cannot be taken away from you. That really resonated with me and I feel the spirit of that has gone into the programme,” he said.

David Hewlett, representing FODO Educational Charity, cut a ceremonial ribbon at the entrance to the clinical facilities at the launch event.

There is this sense that your education is a gift that you carry with you for life. Wherever you go, that cannot be taken away from you

He shared with guests that the University of Leicester’s motto is ut vitam habeant [that they may have life].

“In no area is this more applicable than optometry and vision science. Optometrists give that unique gift of vision to those who need it at all ages from childhood to older age,” he said.

University of Leicester vice chancellor Professor Sir Nishan Canagarajah, paid tribute to The Association for Eye Care Providers (FODO) for its support in establishing the course.

“My thanks to FODO, for their support and funding, which reinforces our focus on equipping our students with the relevant industrial engagement and investment in this programme,” he said.