Orthoptist
Orthoptists deal with a range of eye problems, mainly those affecting the way the eyes move, such as squint (strabismus) and lazy eye (amblyopia).
Entry Requirements
In order to qualify as an Orthoptist you will need to undertake a three year full time degree at either the University of Liverpool or the University of Sheffield .
You will usually need five GCSE passes (or the equivalent) including English, maths and at least one science, and three A levels, to apply for the three year full time degree course.
The degree programmes are designed to develop not only the professional expertise of the student for clinical practice but also to develop effective communication, organisation and evaluation skills.
The courses aim to provide the student with a secure foundation of understanding of the relevant basic sciences, upon which practical orthoptic skills can be acquired, through a wide-ranging clinical training. Clinical experience is gained not only in the hospital setting, but also in the community and special schools for the handicapped.
On completion of the degree course it is necessary to apply for state registration to work as an orthoptist in the NHS. Orthoptists are State registered by the Health Professions Council (HPC)
The Health Professions Council
Park House
184 Kennington Park Road
London
SE11 4BU
tel +44 (0) 20 7582 0866
fax +44 (0) 20 7820 9684
For further information on a career as an Orthoptist contact:
British Orthoptic Society
Tavistock House North
Tavistock Square
London
WC1H 9HX
Tel: 020 7387 7992
Fax: 020 7383 2584
E-mail:
[email protected]
Website:
www.orthoptics.org.uk