GOC extends the Knowledge Hub to support implementation of new training requirements for three years

SPOKE have operated the Hub since August 2021 for qualifications leading to entry to the GOC register in optometry and dispensing optics, and in January 2022 for specialist qualifications in contact lens optics, and independent prescribing/additional supply/supplementary prescribing. The new three-year extension will merge both elements of the hub together under a single contract.

In March 2025, Council agreed to use £210k of strategic reserves to continue to run the Hub once the current contracts expire in July 2025.

The focus of the Hub for the next three years will be to provide practical materials and support to enable qualification providers to successfully implement the ETR as the first cohorts of students move towards graduation.

Steve Brooker, GOC Director of Regulatory Strategy, said:

“We are delighted that SPOKE will continue to operate the Knowledge Hub for three more years. SPOKE has been pivotal in helping providers transition to the ETR and we know its practical materials are valued and being well used.

Good progress has been made in implementing the ETR, but the job isn’t finished. This new contract will support the continued period of transition until the point where most of the first cohorts studying ETR compliant qualifications will have graduated.”