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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Teach and mentor future opticians while developing engaging course materials.
- Company: Leading optical education provider with a focus on innovation and support.
- Benefits: Starting salary from £36,000, 30 days holiday, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the optical sector and shape future professionals.
- Qualifications: Qualified Dispensing Optician or Contact Lens Optician; teaching experience not required.
- Other info: Flexible hours, hybrid working options, and supportive training provided.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 50400 £ per year.
Job Description
Full or Part Time | Based in Godmersham, Canterbury | Starting from £36,000 | Optical Education Provider
Zest Optical are working with a leading provider of optical education to recruit a Lecturer in Ophthalmic Dispensing. This is a rare and rewarding opportunity to take on a meaningful academic role, helping shape the future of the profession through high-quality teaching and mentoring.
Whether you're seeking a full-time academic position or want to combine part-time teaching with work in practice, this role offers flexibility, personal development, and the chance to make a lasting impact in the optical sector.
No teaching experience? No problem.
If you’re a qualified Dispensing Optician or Contact Lens Optician with a passion for learning and supporting others, full training and support will be provided to help you transition into teaching.
College Lecturer – The Role
- Deliver teaching across pre-dispensing and FBDO-level programmes
- Lead subject areas and contribute to curriculum and material development
- Support learners with portfolio preparation and external assessments
- Collaborate with academic colleagues, tutors, and supervisors to provide a smooth student experience
- Use a range of teaching methods including face-to-face, online and blended learning
- Up to 20 hours of teaching per week (pro rata)
- Full or part time hours available (minimum 2 days per week)
- Primarily campus-based near Canterbury, Kent, with some flexibility for hybrid working during non-teaching periods
- Occasional travel to their national training centre in Birmingham may be required
College Lecturer – Requirements
- FBDO-qualified Dispensing Optician or Contact Lens Optician
- Member of both ABDO and the GOC
- A recognised teaching qualification is desirable, but not essential – full training and support will be provided
- Experience coaching, mentoring or training colleagues in practice is highly valued
- Strong subject knowledge in ophthalmic dispensing
- Comfortable with (or open to learning) digital tools and online teaching platforms
- Excellent communication and organisational skills
- Passion for education and professional development
Salary & Benefits
- Salary starting from £36,000 as a DO (depending on qualifications and experience) Starting from £38,500 as a CLO
- 30 days holiday + bank holidays and no weekend work
- 10% employer pension contribution (5% employee contribution)
- Subsidised on-site staff accommodation available if required
- 5 days per year allocated to CPD and regular staff training
- Free on-site parking
- ABDO membership
- Support with GOC registration fees (pro rata)
Apply Now
To apply for this College Lecturer – Ophthalmic Dispensing role, please send your CV to rebecca.wood@zestoptical.com or call 0114 238 1726 for more information.
Send us a message on Whatsapp!
Contact Lens Optician - College Lecturer employer: Zest Optical Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Zest Optical Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Contact Lens Optician - College Lecturer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the optical field and let them know you're on the lookout for teaching opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your online presence sorted! Update your LinkedIn profile to showcase your qualifications and passion for education. Join relevant groups and engage with posts to get noticed by potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your teaching methods and how you can contribute to curriculum development. Think about examples from your experience that highlight your mentoring skills and subject knowledge.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way in landing that dream teaching role.
We think you need these skills to ace Contact Lens Optician - College Lecturer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that are relevant to the College Lecturer role. Highlight your qualifications as a Dispensing Optician or Contact Lens Optician, and any teaching or mentoring experience you might have.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for education and how you can contribute to shaping the future of the optical profession. Don’t forget to mention your willingness to learn and adapt to new teaching methods.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key in this role, make sure your application is clear and well-structured. Use straightforward language and keep it professional yet friendly to reflect your personality.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and you’ll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zest Optical Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of ophthalmic dispensing and contact lenses. Be prepared to discuss your experience and how it relates to the teaching role. This will show your passion for the subject and your ability to engage students.
✨Showcase Your Teaching Potential
Even if you don’t have formal teaching experience, think about times you've mentored or trained colleagues. Prepare examples that highlight your communication skills and ability to explain complex concepts clearly. This will demonstrate your readiness to transition into a teaching role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Digital Tools
Since the role involves online and blended learning, it’s a good idea to get comfortable with digital teaching platforms. If you can, try out a few tools before the interview and be ready to discuss how you would incorporate them into your teaching methods.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the curriculum, student support, and the teaching environment. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the position aligns with your career goals.
