The College has qualified 655 new optometrists and 82 new IP optometrists since January 2021. We recognise the difficulty our trainees, IP students and members have faced due to the COVID-19 pandemic and are proud of their conduct, hard work and dedication they have shown since measures to adapt began.
We held the biggest ever OSCE in our history in March in order to support as many trainees as possible who have faced delays on the Scheme for Registration. Our staff, supervisors, assessors and examiners have worked tirelessly in order to do this.
Alastair Shaw, Head of Assessment at the College said:
“We know how challenging the COVID-19 pandemic has been for pre-registration optometrists and those training to become independent prescribers. We have had to overcome the challenges of delivering assessments remotely and with social-distancing. I want to thank the trainees, and all those involved in delivering the Scheme, for their patience, understanding and support.
“I’m really pleased that a significant number of newly-qualified and independent prescribing optometrists are now able to deliver eye care services to the public.”