15 October 2026

Inspiring the next generation: student roadshows 2026

During a busy September, the College travelled around the UK to meet excited first-year optometry students as part of its 2026 student roadshows.

From Glasgow to Plymouth, we met over 800 students across 15 universities, introducing the profession, running quizzes, handing out freebies, and most importantly, inspiring the next generation of optometrists.

College President and Dean of the School of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences at the University of Hertfordshire, Irene Ctori, attended to welcome its new students. While several College Council members joined sessions to share their career experiences and offer students a personal insight into the profession.

Whilst at university, all optometry students receive free membership of the College and benefit from our range of guidance and support, from clinical guidance on the app, to having the opportunity to become a College Student Rep.

Those students on the integrated Master's degree at our partner universities will receive regular support from the College as they conduct their Clinical Learning in Practice (CLiP) placements in the third or fourth year of their degree.

We would like to extend a big thank you to the students, academic staff, College Council members and staff who made each university session a success.

Good luck to all those beginning their optometry journey!