At a Glance
- Tasks: Welcome customers, book eye tests, provide style advice, and measure frames.
- Company: Join the friendly team at Specsavers Hastings, a community-focused optical store.
- Benefits: Earn a full-time wage while gaining valuable skills and experience.
- Other info: Enjoy perks like discounts, employee support, and an extra day off on your birthday.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in optics with hands-on training and support from experienced professionals.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in Maths (grade 9-4) and a passion for customer service.
The predicted salary is between 15000 - 20000 £ per year.
Are you a caring individual looking to start your career in an Optics environment? You’ve come to the right place. As well as being passionate and motivated in everything you do, it’s important that you’re also a great listener and communicator – as that’s what excellent service is all about. In addition to having great communication skills, you’ll also be a team player and have a real passion for making a difference, both in your development and within the business.
Our Apprenticeship scheme gives people of all ages the chance to boost their existing skillset and kickstart an exciting new career as part of a forward-thinking business, all whilst earning a full-time wage. Our store Specsavers Hastings is a busy, community‑focused store located in the Priory Meadow Shopping Centre, right in the heart of Hastings. The store offers a full range of optical and audiology services supported by eight fully equipped testing rooms. The experienced clinical team delivers high‑quality, personalised care using modern equipment and up‑to‑date techniques, making this an exciting opportunity to be part of a patient‑focused environment that prioritises excellent service and professional development.
The store is ideally positioned just a five‑minute walk from the mainline railway station, and is also well served by local bus routes. For colleagues who travel by car, there is a multi‑storey car park on site with reduced staff rates offering convenient and affordable parking.
The team at Specsavers Hastings is a large, experienced and well‑established group, including Dispensing Opticians, Optometrists, Contact Lens Optician, and Optical Assistants, with a strong support network in place to offer ongoing training and development. The store also benefits from a large on‑site laboratory, enabling efficient service and high standards of dispensing.
Established in 1997, Specsavers Hastings has a loyal and long‑serving team, with many colleagues having been part of the business for years — including two team members who have been with the store since it first opened. This longevity reflects the supportive, inclusive culture within the store, where expertise is shared, teamwork is valued, and colleagues are encouraged to grow and succeed together while delivering exceptional care to the local community.
What’s on offer? Our apprenticeship scheme gives you the chance to really set yourself up for a great career in a fantastic company, and earn a full‑time wage at the same time. You’ll not only spend 15-18 months in a paid job, but also learn your trade while surrounded by our friendly, passionate and highly experienced team who’ll support you every step of the way.
- Full Time - 40 hours per week, to include working a weekend day
- We will auto‑enroll you into the pension scheme with an employer contribution when you contribute too
- Specsavers Perks - a portal to a world of great everyday discounts and savings
- WeCare - our employee support service to help you and your immediate family when you need it most
- Complimentary subscription to the Headspace app
- Eyecare and hearcare discounts for you and your family
- Enjoy an additional paid day off on your birthday to celebrate you!
- Enhanced family leave and company sick pay
Your on‑the‑job training will sit alongside structured learning and at the end of the 15-18 months as an apprentice, you’ll be a fully‑fledged Optical Assistant.
Who is this Apprenticeship for? If this is still sounding like a bit of you, we do need you to have a few skills to get started as an Optical Assistant Apprentice.
- You’ll need a grade 9‑4 (A*-C) GCSEs in Maths (or equivalent/predicted result)
- Individuals who have lived in the EU for 3 years or more, with the right to work in the UK
What does the role involve?
- Welcoming customers into store
- Booking in eye tests
- Providing style advice
- Measuring frames
For more detailed information about the Specsavers Apprenticeship programme, please click the link below. It’s essential that you haven’t previously worked in the Optical Sector. Before applying, please check that you are able to travel to the store location on a daily basis.
Got what we’re looking for? This job will close when it's filled, so don't delay, apply today!
Optical Assistant Apprentice - Hastings, East Sussex employer: Specsavers Norge
Specsavers Hastings is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its team members within a supportive and inclusive work culture. As part of our apprenticeship scheme, you will receive hands-on training alongside experienced professionals in a community-focused environment, all while earning a full-time wage. With benefits like enhanced family leave, employee discounts, and a commitment to professional development, joining our team means embarking on a rewarding career path in the heart of Hastings.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Optical Assistant Apprentice - Hastings, East Sussex
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Specsavers Hastings. Understand their values and what makes them tick. This will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since being a great listener and communicator is key for this role, try role-playing common customer scenarios with friends or family. This will help you feel more confident when interacting with customers during your apprenticeship.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion! When you’re in the interview, let your enthusiasm for optics and helping others shine through. Share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your caring nature and teamwork skills – it’ll make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and ready to embrace the digital side of the business. So, get clicking and good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Optical Assistant Apprentice - Hastings, East Sussex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the optical field shine through! We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about starting your career with us and making a difference in people's lives.
Be a Great Communicator:Since communication is key in this role, make sure to highlight your listening and speaking skills. Use clear and friendly language in your application to reflect how you’d interact with customers in-store.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to the Optical Assistant Apprentice role. Mention specific skills or experiences that relate to the job description and show us why you’re a perfect fit.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s super easy and ensures your application gets to the right place. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the apprenticeship programme there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Specsavers Norge
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the basics of optics and the role of an Optical Assistant. Brush up on common optical terms and services offered at Specsavers Hastings. This will show your genuine interest in the field and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since excellent service is key, practice how you communicate. Think of examples where you've successfully listened to someone or resolved a problem. During the interview, be clear and articulate, and don’t hesitate to ask questions if you need clarification.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Specsavers values teamwork, so be ready to discuss your experiences working in a team. Share specific instances where you contributed to a group effort or supported a colleague. This will highlight your ability to fit into their supportive culture.
✨Express Your Passion for Helping Others
As an Optical Assistant, making a difference in people's lives is crucial. Prepare to share why you want to work in this role and how you can contribute to providing excellent care. Your enthusiasm for helping others will resonate well with the interviewers.
