Are you an enthusiastic individual who enjoys interacting with people and has an interest in health and science? If so, the Level 2 Optical Assistant Apprenticeship could be perfect for you. Read on to find out more about how to start or progress your career within the optical retail industry and help customers find suitable glasses.
What is an Optical Assistant Apprenticeship?
An Optical Assistant Apprenticeship will provide you with a broad range of skills and technical knowledge about spectacle frame materials, fitting requirements, and optical lenses. You will also learn how to use an extensive range of equipment and tools to take measurements, adjust and repair spectacles.
In addition to the comprehensive range of knowledge you will gain, you will also develop a vast range of skills to be able to work within the optical retail industry. Some of these include strong communication, listening skills and a passion for working with others to deliver excellent service and products.
The duration of the apprenticeship typically takes a minimum of 12 months to complete and apprentices without Level 1 English and match will need to achieve this level prior to taking the End Point Assessment as well as sitting Level 2.
Key responsibilities of an Optical Assistant
Alongside the broad range of knowledge and skills requirements mentioned above, there are key responsibilities that apply for all Optical Assistants regardless of whether you work within a small practice, large practice or within the domiciliary environment.
An Optical Assistant is always required to interpret and understand a clinically issued prescription, its effects on the eye, and the customer’s vision. They need to be able to identify the appropriate spectacles to meet the customer’s needs and be able to explain the features and benefits of these, using non-technical and customer friendly language.
It is an Optical Assistant’s responsibility to ensure the maximum comfort of the spectacle frame for the customer, avoiding physical damage to the skin through ill-fitting or the wrong material choice.
Level 2 Optical Assistant Apprenticeship Competencies
As part of your apprenticeship and job role, you will need to evidence your knowledge, and skills throughout the programme and in the end-point assessment. Some examples of the areas of standard are:
- Health and safety: Maintaining safe working practices and identifying risks or dangers to self, customers, or colleagues.
- Materials of frames and lenses: Identifying, explaining, recommending suitable frame and lens materials based on customer needs and requirements.
- Tools and equipment: Confidently and correctly using a wide range of optical tools and equipment.
- Quality and governance: Working to the appropriate company quality standards and systems.
- Screening checks: Clearly explaining screening checks, the reasons they are done and how the machinery works.
- Customer interactions, dispensing, fitting and adjustment of spectacles: Building rapport and trust with the customer and identifying their communication preferences.
Additionally, you will also be required to demonstrate the following behaviours:
- Professionalism
- Self-development
- Safety orientated
The occupational standard, assessment plan and occupational brief for the Optical Assistant Apprenticeship will provide more detail of these areas of standard and the competencies in more detail. It also outlines the skills, knowledge, and behaviours within the standard and the grading differences between a distinction, pass or fail.
For a more technical overview of this apprenticeship, you can view the full assessment plan here. This document will help you understand what you can do to prepare for the end-point assessment.
Conclusion
As demonstrated, the Level 2 Optical Assistant Apprenticeship is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to start or develop their career within the optical retail industry. As well as developing your skillset and technical knowledge, you will also be able to earn while you learn.
If this apprenticeship isn’t quite right for you, take a look at this Level 3 Spectacle Maker Apprenticeship.