Dispensing Optician - Level 6 Apprenticeship

Dispensing optician is a regulated profession. They review spectacle prescriptions and advise on the optical options available, considering the patient’s personal, lifestyle and vocational needs. They present the most suitable option of frames, lenses, filters and coatings to the patient, take measurements, and keep records of the requirements. 

Dispensing opticians work within the main practice environment where they are often front of house. They are qualified to recognise and advise on common eye conditions, triaging and referring patients. They also deal with complex aspects of vision correction, vulnerable adults and paediatric eyecare. They dispense to children, advise on and dispense low vision aids to people with visual impairment. They may be involved in the use and supply of contact lenses. They must be able to identify potentially serious eye problems and refer patients for furth tests and treatment. They advise on and dispense protective eyewear, including industrial safety glasses and sports goggles. They oversee their own work and that of supervised optical assistants. 

Line management and supervisory duties will depend on the size of the practice. They may work in a technical advisory role within a range of organisations such as the production of optical products.

OPTION 1 - Levy (Large) Employers

Applicable to employers that have an annual wage bill of £3M or more.

0.5% of their wage bill is taxed which is known as apprenticeship levy and ringfenced for spending on apprenticeship training, therefore no additional cost. 100% of the apprentice’s training is covered by the Government for apprentices up to the age of 21 years old.

OPTION 2 Non Levy (Small, Medium sized) Employers

This is where the Government will pay 95% towards the cost of the apprentice’s training. The remaining 5% is invoiced to employer. 

100% of the apprentice’s training is covered by the Government for apprentices up to the age of 21 years old.

OPTION 3 Levy Transfer - (Small, Medium sized)

This where a large organisation shares some of their apprenticeship levy to pay for 100% of the cost of your apprentice’s training. Please be aware that employers must apply for levy transfers.

• To be employed in an optical practice, and work a minimum of 30 hours
• Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above (or A*-C), including Maths, English Language and Science
• Have lived in the UK for the last 3 years

Applicants without the necessary qualifications but who have a significant amount of experience (10 years) will be interviewed to determine suitability for the course.

Upon enrolment, learners must register for student membership of GOC and ABDO and maintain registration for the duration of the course.

* A work-based supervisor must be a GOC-registered Dispensing Optician, Contact Lens Optician or Optometrist, qualified for a minimum of 2 years. A supervisor can only supervise a maximum of three students at one time

Learners who complete the Dispensing Optician Level 6 apprenticeship can look forward to a rewarding career in a growing sector. dispensing opticians are regulated professionals working within the regulatory standards as set by the General Optical Council (GOC). They will have the skills and knowledge to provide high-quality patient-centred care. Dispensing opticians ensure their work is compliant with optical, consumer and healthcare regulations. They keep a safe working environment and supervise the work of optical assistants and trainee dispensing opticians. They oversee their own work and that of supervised optical assistants. Line management and supervisory duties will depend on the size of the practice. They may work in a technical advisory role within a range of organisations, such as in the production of optical products.

You will develop the theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and professional standards necessary to become a dispensing optician in your practice. Your knowledge of the prescription of ophthalmic lenses and the dispensing of ophthalmic frames will be advanced during the course.

The course will cover the following topics:

• Theory of General Optics
• Theory of Ophthalmic Lenses
• Patient Centred Care
• Theory and Practice of Ophthalmic Lenses and Dispensing – Elementary and Advanced
• Paediatric Dispensing
• Professional Conduct and Communications
• The Assessment and Management of Refractive Errors
• The assessment and Management of Visual Impairment
• Ocular Anatomy and Pathology
• The Principles of Contact Lens Wear
• Practitioner Development

You will need to attend college 1 day per week for in-person theory and practical lessons. 

Portfolio - Portfolio of evidence

Practical Assessment:

• Achieve required modules in Year 1 and 2
• Year 3 theory assessments
• Complete the practice visit

Next step may include:

• Level 5 Operations/Departmental Manager apprenticeship (to further your career)

• Boots Opticians
• Rose Opticians
• Bird and Fairly
• David Wood Opticians
• Hood Barnes Opticians

Apprentices who complete the Dispensing Optician Level 6 programme will aim to take on additional management responsibilities and some move into a practice management or leadership position:

• Supervising student dispensing opticians.
• Clinical progression in areas such as contact lens dispensing, minor eye conditions, children’s clinics, low vision, glaucoma and diabetic screening.
• Enter self-employment or partnership, running your own practice or a franchise business.