How Specsavers Is Inspiring the Next Generation of Optometry Professionals in UK Schools

Specsavers teams are actively engaging with students across Worcestershire to showcase exciting career opportunities in optometry.

Inspiring Students at Hagley High School Careers Fair

Teams from Specsavers have been inspiring students to consider roles in optometry at Hagley High School’s careers fair. Staff members from three Specsavers manufacturing and distribution (M&D) sites in Kidderminster discussed opportunities with more than 2,000 students—both at the fair and during the Skills Expo Worcestershire at Sixways in Worcester.

Interactive Engagement and Career Pathways

Representatives from Vision Labs, Lens Online, and International Glazing Services (IGS) hosted an interactive stand where students could participate in skills sessions and play optometry-related games. These businesses provide lens surfacing, stocking, and distributing lenses and contact lenses to Specsavers.

Eight team members discussed career pathways available across M&D sites, revealing roles that students had not previously considered. Key speakers included:

• Martin Hammond, Head of Quality, Business Systems, and Health and Safety
• Emma Cox, Head of Customer Service and Outbound Logistics
• Mark Edwards, Head of Environmental and Facilities Management UK M&D

They shared their personal career journeys and emphasized the skills needed to work in the industry, highlighting opportunities in engineering, apprenticeships, lab production, and logistics.

Student Engagement and Industry Insights

Jayne Cole, HR Business Partner M&D, noted: “The students were incredibly engaged and keen to learn about the optics world.” This initiative aims to address skill gaps and foster interest in optometry careers from a young age, supporting the growth of the UK’s healthcare and manufacturing sectors.

By connecting directly with students, Specsavers is helping to build a pipeline of future talent, ensuring that the optometry industry remains vibrant and well-staffed.