Inaugural OA workshop proves a hit

Students honing new skills

Last week the first group of optical assistants (OAs) on ABDO College’s Optical Assistant course met at ABDO’s National Resource Centre to learn more about key skills in optics.

The workshop allows OAs to develop their skills in spectacle repairs and adjustments and pre-screening, and was run by Rian Love and Sally Bates from the College.

ABDO College head of operations, Steve Hertz, said: “The latest part of the Optical Assistant programme to debut, the Practical Skills Workshop, added to the course’s ongoing success. The day was fully booked more than a month ahead, which confirmed our thinking that those working in Assistant roles are keen to progress and expand their skills.

“The feedback from students that I have received so far has been lovely to hear and shows that a fantastic day was had by all. Well done to the staff and students for making it such a positive, informative experience.”

Rian Love added: “The workshop brought together a diverse background of optical assistants, some long-term optical staff and others who were only in practice a matter of months.

“It was fantastic to meet so many students who felt that this course was just the beginning of their optical education, and who intended to carry on within optical education upon completion.”

Participant Fabio Carmo said afterwards: “I thought I knew a great deal after working in optics for nearly three years, but I left knowing a lot more. And all delivered with great humour by both lecturers.”

Rian Love with students

Lisa Garnsworthy commented that the event had “boosted my confidence”, while Katie Lloyd found the hands-on practice “a huge benefit”.

The Practical Skills Workshop is open to any OA who wants to develop their skills in spectacle repairs and adjustments and pre-screening. It is suitable for those new to optics as well as OAs who want to formalise their knowledge.

Find out more about the Optical Assistant course from ABDO College here.

Applications for the next course need to be in by 10 January, and the next workshop takes place on 9 March 2020