3211 — Dispensing opticians

What this occupation covers

Dispensing opticians supply, fit and service spectacles, contact lenses and other optical aids in accordance with a prescription from an optician or optometrist.

Typical duties

interprets prescription and measures patient’s face to determine distance between pupil centres, height of bridge of nose, etc.

advises patient on lens type and choice of spectacle frames

prepares detailed instructions for workshop

ensures that completed spectacles conform to specification and fit the patient correctly and comfortably

fits spectacles and advises patient on lens care and any other difficulties likely to be experienced

Entry routes and qualifications

Entry is most common with GCSEs/S grades or equivalent qualifications or experience, followed by up to three years training approved by the General Optical Council (GOC). To practice entrants must pass professional exams and register with the GOC. Full-time, day-release or distance-learning options are available.

Sponsorship information

Medium Skilled. Actual duties, sponsor, applicant, salary and any transitional or shortage-list conditions must be checked.

DBS assessment

No code-wide DBS assessment is assigned. Check actual duties, activities, workplace, frequency and jurisdiction. This code does not determine the level of check.

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