20 July 2026

College launches new assessor affixes to recognise expertise and commitment to optometric education

Workforce

The College of Optometrists has launched a new suite of assessor affixes to recognise the expertise, commitment and professional judgement of College assessors and the vital role they play in developing the optometry workforce.

Work-based assessment is central to optometric education, assuring new registrants are equipped to deliver high standards of patient care. The education of others is central to the work of healthcare professionals, and College assessors sit at the heart of the route to registration in optometry.   

The new affixes formally recognise the important contribution assessors make to optometric education, while inspiring the development of a sustainable, skilled assessor workforce across the UK. 

Three levels of assessor recognition 

From July 2026, College assessors can apply for one of three affixes, reflecting their knowledge, experience and contribution to assessment: 

  • Assessor (OptA) – for assessors who have completed the full assessment cycle (Scheme or CLiP) and demonstrated effective assessing practice
  • Internal Quality Assurer (OptIQA) – for experienced assessors undertaking quality assurance and assessor development
  • Senior Assessor (OptSenA) – for appointed Senior Assessors leading assessment quality and supporting continuous improvement

“Following the introduction of the OptPE affix in 2025 to recognise excellence in supervision, we have further expanded our member affixes to celebrate the expertise and commitment of our assessors who help uphold excellence in education and assessment. As the profession continues to evolve, the College will continue to ensure that new registrant optometrists have the skills, knowledge and support they need for safe and effective practice. This cannot be achieved without supporting and recognising the contributions made by experienced optometrists to the education of the next generation.”

Lizzy Ostler, Director of Education, The College of Optometrists

Why apply for an assessor affix? 

The suite of assessor affixes provides formal recognition of the expertise and contribution required for roles that are central to assuring standards for the next generation of optometrists. 

The new assessor affixes are only available to active College assessors who have demonstrated that they meet the required outcome and continue to deliver the required volume of assessment activity. College assessors must also be members of the College. 

Visit the new webpage Assessor affix to find out how to apply.  

Interested in becoming a College assessor? 

College assessors play a key role in assessing learners on both the Scheme for Registration and Clinical Learning in Practice (CLiP) programmes, helping ensure future optometrists meet the standards required for safe and effective practice. Find out more at How to become a College Assessor. 

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