1 December 2025

#TheCollegeWrapped: Our achievements from January to March 2025

AI and technology Driving and vision New models of care Workforce 2025

From shaping eye care’s future to championing road safety, AI innovation, and inclusive learning – we made an impactful start to 2025.

As part of #TheCollegeWrapped campaign, we’re reflecting on the first quarter of 2025 and highlighting the work that’s making a real difference in eye care. From protecting the public to planning for the profession’s future, here’s a snapshot of our key achievements from January to March. 

Planning for the future of eye care

We launched the UK Eye Care Data Hub, an open-access tool that forecasts eye disease prevalence and models the future optometry workforce. By giving commissioners and providers reliable data, it ensures eye care services are planned effectively and secures the future of our profession.

A glaring issue for motorists

Our collaboration with the RAC revealed that a quarter of drivers affected by bright headlights now drive less at night. The research triggered a government investigation, highlighting our pivotal role in road safety and reinforcing the impact of optometry on public health. 

AI in eye care: Leading the conversation

We published our interim position on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in eye care, stressing safe, ethical, and evidence-based adoption of new technology. By guiding how AI is used in clinical practice, we ensure optometrists stay informed as the digital future evolves. 

Inclusive specialist learning for all 

Through the GOC-funded SPOKE collaboration, we launched resources to support inclusive education for specialist qualifications. By identifying challenges and providing practical tools, we’re widening access and fostering a diverse, highly skilled workforce. 

Supporting the next generation

In early 2025, over 1,000 new optometrists qualified, along with more than 1,500 pre-registration trainees. With strong pass rates at our OSCE centres in London and Liverpool, we celebrated these achievements and look forward to supporting their careers.

From innovation to public safety and professional growth, the first quarter of 2025 demonstrates our ongoing commitment to advancing eye care and strengthening optometry. Stay tuned for more highlights from the year as part of #TheCollegeWrapped. 

Find out more

Related news

College response to Scotland Government consultation on NHS Delivery
Consultations Scotland

College welcomes over 450 new optometrists to the profession at the 2025 Diploma Ceremony in London
Workforce

Museum takes centre stage in new podcast and upcoming events
Museum

Related further reading

Behind the headlines - autumn 2025

Eye health issues that are making the news.

AMD AI and technology Glaucoma Public health Research

The butterfly effect: how OCT biomarkers inform optometry practice

In the first of a three-part series, Helen Bird explores the importance of biomarkers in indicating disease, some of the latest OCT imaging biomarkers and how they relate to optometrists’ work.

AMD AI and technology OCT Public health Referrals

The evolution of optometry into primary healthcare

Optometrists have evolved from prescribers of spectacles to crucial primary care providers, writes Becky McCall.

Independent prescribing Workforce