Developing CLiP partnerships

Consultation and development

The College has developed the CLiP programme with extensive stakeholder engagement and support from across the sector through the development stages and into launch. We hold regular meetings with university and employer consultation and partnership groups to share information about our plans and receive feedback to assure a process of continuing collaborative improvement. 

Through this development, we offered greater choice for universities and their students as to where they can find work. We have created a schedule for the job application and placement processes,and clarity and consistency of expectations, so that the placement integrates effectively with the degree programmes. We have also simplified and streamlined the recruitment experience for both students and employers, creating a platform for applications and leading the process of organised application rounds for CLiP placement opportunities. 

We continue to work with employers and universities to improve support for supervisors and produce clear and accessible guidance and procedures for all parts of the placement experience.  

University partners

These universities have incorporated the CLiP placement in their master’s degree programmes in optometry:

  • Anglia Ruskin University
  • Aston University
  • University of Bradford
  • Cardiff University
  • University of Lancashire
  • City St George’s, University of London
  • University of Hertfordshire
  • University of Huddersfield 
  • Plymouth University
  • Teesside University
  • Ulster University
  • University of the West of England

We will announce any further university partnerships as they are agreed.

Employer partners

We have worked with most of the larger companies in the sector, as well as representatives of smaller multiples, independent practices, private and NHS hospital services. Boots Opticians, Hakim Group, Specsavers and Vision Express, as the providers of the largest numbers of placements, have been heavily involved from the early development stage. Employers and employer groups interested in supporting the College in developing and delivering CLiP should contact CLiP@college-optometrists.org.