At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our innovative team to provide specialist glaucoma care and develop your clinical skills.
- Company: Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, a leading healthcare provider in Devon.
- Benefits: Flexible working, funded training, career progression, and generous annual leave.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for leadership and teaching development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in patient care while enjoying the stunning North Devon environment.
- Qualifications: HCPC registration and experience in orthoptics; passion for education is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 49387 - 56515 £ per year.
Are you an experienced Orthoptist with an interest in glaucoma care and ready to take the next step into a Band 7 highly specialist role? If you are a Band 6 clinician passionate about delivering high-quality patient care and developing specialist expertise, this could be the ideal developmental opportunity for you.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Band 7 Highly Specialist Glaucoma Orthoptist to join our friendly, innovative and supportive Orthoptic team in North Devon. This role offers the opportunity to develop advanced clinical, leadership and teaching skills whilst helping to shape and further develop our orthoptic-led glaucoma monitoring service and wider orthoptic provision.
We will shortly be welcoming an Orthoptic Apprentice. Candidates with an interest in education, clinical supervision and workforce development would be particularly welcome.
In return, we offer funded training and development, flexible working, career progression, and opportunities to contribute to research, innovation and service improvement. If you are seeking an excellent work–life balance, North Devon offers an outstanding natural environment, including Exmoor National Park, beautiful coastline and world-class beaches, providing an exceptional quality of life.
About the Role
This is a dynamic and varied role with opportunities to develop advanced clinical and autonomous practice skills across both orthoptic and glaucoma pathways. You will be supported to expand your expertise through extended roles and innovative ways of working.
You will deliver clinics across both acute hospital and community settings and, depending on experience, spend a significant proportion of your time working in an extended-role capacity supporting the orthoptic-led glaucoma monitoring service. Working alongside glaucoma clinical nurse specialists, orthoptic assistants and ophthalmology colleagues, you will play a key role in monitoring and managing glaucoma patients, identifying deterioration and facilitating timely escalation where required. You will also contribute to the ongoing development of the glaucoma service and the staff delivering it.
Within the orthoptic service, you will:
- Provide specialist orthoptic assessment, diagnosis and management for paediatric and adult patients.
- Manage a diverse caseload including ocular motility disorders, diplopia, amblyopia, neuro-ophthalmic presentations and stroke-related visual problems.
- Work autonomously using advanced clinical reasoning and evidence‑based practice.
- Contribute to service development, pathway redesign and quality improvement initiatives.
- Support waiting list management and elective recovery.
- Work collaboratively within the multidisciplinary team to deliver high-quality patient-centred care.
The successful candidate will:
- Be part of a forward-thinking team driving innovation in both orthoptic and glaucoma services.
- Work as an autonomous practitioner within the core orthoptic service.
- Contribute to service development and pathway improvement.
- Support the education, supervision, training and development of students, apprentices and junior staff.
- Develop leadership and teaching skills, with potential opportunities to progress towards an Orthoptic Clinical Tutor role.
- Participate in regular glaucoma multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings.
- Be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
- Be willing to travel to community-based clinic locations.
Not Quite Ready for a Band 7 Post?
We welcome applications from suitable candidates seeking a developmental opportunity. A Band 6 developmental pathway may be offered to applicants who do not yet meet all Band 7 competencies. This will include structured training, mentoring and competency-based progression to Band 7 following successful completion of agreed objectives.
About the Service
The Orthoptic Department provides a comprehensive range of adult and paediatric services including patients referred from:
- Eye Casualty
- Neurology services
- Stroke rehabilitation services
- Paediatric ophthalmology services
- School vision screening programmes
- Acute and Community location clinics
In addition to core orthoptic services, we currently provide extended-role clinics including:
- Dystonia/Botox
- Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA)
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
The department has a strong reputation for innovation and service development and is committed to developing both future services and future professionals.
Career Development and Progression
Training and development opportunities are readily available. Whether your interests lie in specialist clinical practice, leadership, education, research or service development, we will support you in finding the best way to grow. We actively encourage CPD and offer opportunities to learn from a range of specialist clinicians across ophthalmology and orthoptics.
You will be involved in:
- Clinical audit and quality improvement
- Clinical governance activities
- Journal clubs
- Relevant courses and seminars
As we establish our Orthoptic Apprenticeship programme, candidates who are interested in teaching and workforce development will have opportunities to gain experience in education, mentorship and clinical supervision. For the right individual, there may be opportunities to develop towards an Orthoptic Clinical Tutor role, supporting apprentice and student learning alongside clinical responsibilities.
About North Devon
North Devon District Hospital is situated close to some of the UK's most beautiful coastline and countryside, including Exmoor National Park and the stunning beaches of the North Devon coast. Known as England's Adventure Coast, North Devon offers an exceptional quality of life with outstanding natural beauty, vibrant communities and excellent opportunities for outdoor pursuits. The area is also home to the UK's first designated World Surfing Reserve.
There are good road links to the M5 and rail connections to Exeter and the wider national network.
HCPC registration is essential, and travel across community sites will be expected.
Working Pattern: 37.5 hours over 4 days - 3 x 9.5 hour days and 1 x 9 hour day
Interview Date: To Be Confirmed
For further information please contact: Susan Thorne, Head Orthoptist on 01271 322469 OR susanthorne@nhs.net
As an inclusive employer, the Royal Devon values diversity and is committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We believe in fostering a sense of belonging and actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities. We recognise the advantages of having a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.
Preference will be given to staff with ‘Priority’ and 'At Risk' status including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon.
The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust reserves the right to close vacancy when sufficient applications have been received.
The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust was established in April 2022, bringing together the expertise of both the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust and Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust.
About Us
Stretching across Northern, Eastern and Mid Devon, we have a workforce of over 15,000 staff, making us the largest employer in Devon. Our core services, which we provide to more than 615,000 people, cover more than 2,000 square miles across Devon, while some of our specialist services cover the whole of the peninsula, extending our reach as far as Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
We deliver a wide range of emergency, specialist and general medical services through North Devon District Hospital and the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford). Alongside our two acute hospitals, we provide integrated health and social care services across a variety of settings, including community inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, and within people’s own homes. We also offer primary care services, a range of specialist community services, and Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC).
Our state‑of‑the‑art equipment, leading technologies and strong links to local universities put us at the forefront of research and innovations, enabling us to provide world‑class care to our local communities.
Our values are at the heart of everything we do. It has never been a more exciting time to join the Royal Devon, as you will help to shape our services as we continue along our integration journey.
Looking after you is important to us. We strive to help our staff create a healthy work-life balance through flexible working schemes and our family friendly policies. If you are starting out in the NHS, you’ll start with 27 days paid annual leave (plus bank holidays), rising to 33 days plus bank holidays.
You will benefit from access to our own comprehensive occupational health services, including counselling, onsite wellbeing activities and groups. We will work together to maintain a culture that develops and supports you and your team. This might include funding for a care certificate, a degree or leadership qualifications. Or it might include days off to study, engage in CPD or rotational placements to help you hone your skills. Wherever you are heading in the NHS, we will help you get there.
Salary is not the only financial benefit. You will have access to an extensive range of staff discounts on shopping, fitness and leisure options and you can spread the cost of technology and home appliance purchases from major retailers. You will also have access to other benefits including:
- National discount services such as the Blue Light Card and Health Service Discounts.
- Salary sacrifice options including our OFSTED rated outstanding nursery onsite at Exeter.
- Car lease schemes.
- The NHS Pension scheme (one of the most generous and comprehensive in the UK).
- Cycle to work scheme.
These are just a few of the benefits available – if the role is something you are interested in, we would love to hear from you.
Salary Band 7: £49,387 - £56,515 per annum pro rata
Frequency Annual
Vacancy Reference 185-75041-13895
Contract Type Permanent
Closing Date 17 August, 2026
Job Category Allied Health Professional
Staff Group Allied Health Professionals
Highly Specialist Orthoptist in Barnstaple employer: Royal Devon
The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With a commitment to diversity and a culture that fosters belonging, staff enjoy generous benefits such as 27 days of annual leave, access to comprehensive occupational health services, and opportunities for further education and training. Located in the beautiful regions of Exeter and Barnstaple, employees can benefit from a healthy work-life balance while contributing to world-class healthcare services for the local community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Highly Specialist Orthoptist in Barnstaple
✨Get Involved with Local Health Initiatives
Join local community health events or volunteer for organisations like public health agencies. This not only builds your experience but also helps you network with industry professionals who might know of openings at places like Royal Devon.
✨Tap into Professional Associations
Check out associations like the Institute of Healthcare Management. They often have job boards, networking events, and conferences that are perfect for connecting with potential employers in health sciences administration.
✨Stay Updated with Industry Trends
Follow health policy news and trends—being knowledgeable about the current landscape will not only help you in interviews but also make you stand out as a candidate. You can discuss recent developments and their implications when chatting with folks at Royal Devon.
✨Apply Through Our Website for Better Visibility
When you find roles that excite you, especially at places like Royal Devon, don’t forget to apply through our website. This can sometimes give you an edge by showing the employer you’re savvy and committed to finding the right fit.
We think you need these skills to ace Highly Specialist Orthoptist in Barnstaple
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in health sciences administration, it's super important to spotlight any relevant experience you have in healthcare settings. Whether you've worked in a hospital, a clinic, or any related environment, make sure to detail those roles in your CV – focusing on your responsibilities and achievements that align with the job at Royal Devon.
Showcase Your Administrative Skills:Administrative skills are key in this field, so don’t hold back! Make sure your CV reflects your proficiency in things like scheduling, data management, and compliance with health regulations. Mention specific software you’ve used, such as patient management systems, as this will demonstrate your hands-on abilities and readiness for the role at Royal Devon.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to Royal Devon. Share a bit about why you’re drawn to this sector, any impactful situations or challenges you’ve encountered, and how they’ve shaped your desire to work in health sciences administration. This personal touch can really set you apart!
Tailor Your Documents to the Job:Don't use a one-size-fits-all approach! Make sure your CV and cover letter are specifically tailored for this role. Highlight any certifications you have relevant to health administration, and ensure you clearly connect your previous roles to the skills needed for the full-time position at Royal Devon. This way, you're showing them you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in being a part of their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Devon
✨Showcase Your Administrative Skills
In health sciences administration, being organised is key. Make sure you can demonstrate your skills in managing schedules, paperwork, and data accurately. Be ready to discuss specific tools you've used, like electronic health record systems or scheduling software, and how they improved efficiency in your past experiences.
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarity with healthcare regulations and compliance is crucial. Brush up on HIPAA, GDPR, or other relevant policies before your interview. We recommend preparing examples of how you've ensured compliance or handled sensitive information in past roles—this will show you're not just knowledgeable but also responsible.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Interviews for administrative roles often involve scenario-based questions to assess your problem-solving skills. Practice responses to common situations you might face, such as dealing with a challenging patient or managing a sudden schedule change. This will not only demonstrate your ability to think on your feet but also highlight your interpersonal skills.
✨Align Your Goals with the Organisation
As a full-time candidate, employers will want to know how your long-term career goals align with their mission. Take some time to research Royal Devon’s values and be ready to tie your passion for health sciences administration into their objectives. Demonstrating enthusiasm and career alignment can be a game-changer in this competitive field!
