Tell us about your background in orthoptics
“After graduating from the BMedSci Orthoptics course at Sheffield in 1999 I spent 25 years working as a clinician, the vast majority of which was spent at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. I worked as an advanced orthoptist specialising in complex eye movement disorders, and patients with learning disabilities and cerebral visual impairment.
“As part of that role I worked with undergraduate orthoptics students attending clinical placement in the department, and I discovered my passion for teaching and inspiring future clinicians.
“My transition into academia was a natural progression from my role as a clinical tutor and my work with the British and Irish Orthoptic Society, where I co-deliver the national clinical tutors’ course. I have been in my current role since December 2024, although I’d previously worked at the University on a part-time secondment from 2021 - 2023.”
Why is it so important to offer an apprenticeship route into the profession?
“As the sole provider of the Orthoptics degree apprenticeship, we are addressing a critical need for accessibility and workforce sustainability. This programme will allow NHS Trusts to grow their own talent, training staff who are already embedded in their local communities and clinical environments.
There is a national shortage of orthoptists, and rural and coastal areas are particularly affected by this. By studying while they work, apprentices don’t have to relocate to attend university, therefore this removes some of the barriers which may have prevented talented and motivated people from entering the profession.
Laura Haslam
University Teacher and BSc Orthoptics Programme Lead
How will our apprenticeship route and standard degree route differ?
“While both routes lead to the same high standard and eligibility for registration with The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), the delivery model is the key difference.
“The standard degree is a traditional academic-led model where students spend the majority of their time at the University, supplemented by specific clinical placement blocks. The apprenticeship is an employer-led, work-based model.
“Apprentices are employees first; they spend the majority of their time working within their clinical departments, applying their learning in real-time, and attending the University for 'off-the-job' training. It’s a much more integrated, immersive experience from day one.”
What part of leading the new programme are you most looking forward to?
“I am most looking forward to our first cohort of apprentices joining us in September; seeing them arrive will be the culmination of a huge amount of hard work. Having spent 25 years in the NHS, I know how vital it is to train competent, compassionate clinicians who can make a real difference to patients from day one, and I am excited to oversee the progress of our new apprentices from novice to qualified clinicians.
“Launching this programme has been a true collaborative effort. I have worked closely with Professor Charlotte Codina, Professional Lead for Orthoptics, and the wider team to make sure our delivery is optimal. It has been a privilege to work with colleagues across the Faculty and University, who have been so supportive in helping us get this course up and running. Seeing those first apprentices begin their journey in September will be incredibly rewarding, and I’m excited to steer this innovative programme to make sure we produce highly skilled orthoptists ready for the complexities of modern clinical practice.”
Heath Apprenticeship Employer Webinar
Join our online Health Apprenticeship Employer Webinar on Wednesday 11 March, 12.30pm - 1.30pm, and hear about the range of apprenticeships and support services we offer and how they can benefit your organisation.
