30 April 2025

The College awards its first Optometric Practice Educator (OptPE) affix to qualifying supervisors

Advancing optometry Supervision

The College of Optometrists has awarded the first OptPE affix, its first-ever educational affix, to the inaugural group of optometrists who have completed the College’s enhanced training for supervisors.

The OptPE affix is designed to recognise the dedication, expertise, and commitment of supervisors who support students in their work-based learning. 

The awards took place at The College of Optometrists’ Annual General Meeting in Birmingham on Tuesday 29 April 2025, with commemorative certificates awarded by the College’s President, Dr Gillian Rudduck MCOptom. 

To qualify for the OptPE affix, College members must complete the College’s new supervisor training, submit their reflections on their practical experience of supervision, and take part in a supervisor-focused peer review. The OptPE affix is available to all full and associate College members. 

Supporting supervisors in the transition to CLiP: the new route to qualification

The OptPE affix represents one part of a suite of enhanced support and development opportunities for supervisors ahead of the transition to the College’s new Clinical Learning in Practice (CLiP) programme. CLiP has been developed as part of the new master’s degrees in optometry following the introduction of the new GOC Education and Training Requirements (ETR). The first CLiP placements will commence from summer 2025. 

Further support from the College for supervisors includes: 

  • all-new and improved training (with CPD points)
  • peer sessions for supervision
  • ongoing CPD (leadership and communication domains)
  • drop-ins with Lead Assessor
  • dedicated contact points for advice and guidance
  • online portal (for CLiP)

A flexible approach

The new Educational Training Requirements (ETR) also bring increased flexibility and team working opportunities for practices, where the whole practice can be involved in supervision and have the support they need. Additional changes include: 

  • other ophthalmic professions will be supported to supervise within their scope of practice
  • all who supervise must be trained and supported

“We’re delighted to award the new Optometric Practice Educator affix to the first group of supervisors who have completed the College’s new supervisor training programme. The OptPE affix recognises the commitment and dedication of supervisors who invest their time and expertise in nurturing the next generation of optometrists.”

Dr Gillian Rudduck MCOptom, President of The College of Optometrists

Find out more

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