At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver specialist eye care to children in special schools across Thames Valley.
- Company: SeeAbility, the UK's leading eye care charity for those with complex needs.
- Benefits: Earn £250 per day, enjoy flexible hours, and access wellbeing support.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to inclusivity and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's lives while developing your clinical skills.
- Qualifications: Optometry qualification and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 31981 - 39087 £ per year.
Location: Schools across Thames Valley Region
Salary: £250 per day plus benefits
Hours: 7.5 to 37.5 hours per week, (1-5 days a week) - School term time only
Types of Contract: Annualised Term Time or Bank
About SeeAbility
SeeAbility is the UK’s leading specialist eye care charity for people with learning disabilities, autism, visual impairment and complex support needs. With over 226 years of experience, SeeAbility delivers expert, inclusive eye care services in Special Schools across Thames Valley Region.
What you bring
To be a part of SeeAbility’s Special School’s Eye Care team in a Thames Valley school or schools. You will be responsible for regular visits to the same school(s) during school term times only. SeeAbility Special Schools Eye Care team training will be provided to all successful applicants.
Role Overview: Special School Optometrist
You will work as part of SeeAbility’s Special Schools Eye Care Team, delivering specialist eye care in special schools in Thames Valley during term time only. You’ll visit the same schools regularly, with occasional need to cover other schools, and will receive full specialist training upon appointment. This is a highly autonomous clinical role requiring expert judgement, advanced communication skills, and the ability to work confidently with children who have complex physical, learning, sensory and behavioural needs.
Core Responsibilities
- Clinical Care & Decision‑Making
- Deliver specialist eye care in line with NHS England Special School Eye Care Service Specifications
- Manage an independent caseload using evidence‑based practice
- Make complex clinical decisions
- Refer appropriately to ophthalmologists, orthoptists, GPs and other healthcare professionals
- Use and handle specialist equipment with a high level of technical skill
- Communication & Family Engagement
- Communicate sensitively and effectively with children with complex needs
- Deliver information to parents and carers, often despite communication barriers
- Liaise directly with parents, carers, and schools (using secure NHS mail and GDPR‑compliant systems)
- Produce written clinical reports within 5 working days for parents, schools, and professionals
- Multidisciplinary & Collaborative Working
- Work closely with:
- Dispensing Opticians
- Orthoptists and ophthalmologists
- GPs and paediatricians
- Speech & Language Therapists
- Occupational and Physiotherapists
- Educational and social care professionals
- Promote interdisciplinary cooperation to enhance patient‑centred care
- Training, Quality and Service Development
- Complete SeeAbility City, St George’s University Eyecare Training
- Complete mandatory organisational SeeAbility training
- Deliver annual training sessions to assigned schools where possible
- Participate in clinical audit and service improvement initiatives
- Participate in risk assessments with the service manager
- In time, mentor new team members
- Attend at least three SeeAbility team meetings per year
- Governance, Safety & Professional Standards
- Maintain accurate, confidential clinical records in line with:
- Data Protection Act
- NHS Information Governance Toolkit
- Report and investigate incidents, near misses, or safeguarding concerns
- Adhere to infection control, health & safety, and safeguarding policies
- Maintain CPD and stay up to date with developments in eye health, disability and legislation
- Uphold SeeAbility’s values
- Physical and Mental Demands of the Role
- Transporting specialist equipment between school sites
- High levels of concentration for prolonged periods (2–3+ hours)
- Managing interruptions and challenging behaviours
- Emotional resilience when discussing permanent visual loss
Our Benefits
Our colleagues at SeeAbility are extremely valued, and so everyone has access to a fantastic package of benefits.
- Recognition & Rewards – Celebrate your achievements
- Financial Perks – Discounts & cashback offers
- Wellbeing Support – 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
Safeguarding and Promoting Welfare
SeeAbility is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the people we support. We expect all staff to uphold this commitment and have a strong understanding of their roles and responsibilities in safeguarding.
Safer Recruitment
SeeAbility is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the people we support. All colleagues are expected to uphold this commitment. Successful applicants will be subject to safer recruitment checks, including:
- Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (where appropriate)
- Identity, current address and right-to-work verification
- Health declaration to ensure that you are medically suitable for the role you have been offered
- Employment references relating to work with this role or similar roles
All checks are completed at SeeAbility’s expense before a start date is confirmed.
Diversity & Inclusion
We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities and experiences, including those with disabilities or who are neurodivergent. Reasonable adjustments are available throughout the recruitment process. In exceptional circumstances, a genuine occupational requirement may apply under the Equality Act 2010 (Schedule 9, Part 1).
Optometrist in England employer: SeeAbility
At SeeAbility, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture in Exeter, Devon. With comprehensive training, career progression opportunities, and a strong focus on employee well-being, we empower our Support Workers to thrive both personally and professionally while making a meaningful impact in the lives of those we support. Join us in a role that is not just a job, but a chance to make every day matter for individuals with learning disabilities and sight loss.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Optometrist in England
✨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 SeeAbility.
✨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 SeeAbility.
✨Apply Through Our Website for Better Visibility
When you find roles that excite you, especially at places like SeeAbility, 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 Optometrist in England
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 SeeAbility.
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 SeeAbility.
Craft a Meaningful Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the health sciences field and your eagerness to contribute to SeeAbility. 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 SeeAbility. 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 SeeAbility
✨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 SeeAbility’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!
