Starting this week, Asda Opticians will begin its first ever training programme specifically for university graduates who’ve studied optometry, giving them hands-on experience in stores across the UK.
The training scheme is designed to enable these graduates to become GOC (General Optical Council) registered optometrists, with support from experienced professionals and structured learning on the job.
Participants will take part in a mix of in-person training days, online learning, alongside their testing clinics with real patients – all aimed at sharpening both their clinical know-how and customer service skills.
Applications are now open for the 2026-2027 intake, marking a major milestone in Asda’s long-term commitment to developing talent and expanding its healthcare services.
In 2024, Asda Opticians launched an apprenticeship programme giving optical assistant colleagues the opportunity to become a Dispensing Optician (DO) – the first time an apprenticeship for this professional role has ever been run in the optical profession.
Kristy Jackson, optical professional development manager at Asda Opticians, commented: “We’re thrilled to welcome our first cohort into our optical departments across the UK. This programme has been many years in the making, and it reflects our commitment to supporting colleagues at every stage of their professional journey. We’re proud to offer a pathway that combines comprehensive clinical training with real-world experience, ensuring we can attract top talent into our stores.”
Ruhma Amin is one of the pre-registration optometrists recruited as part of the 2025 cohort, and shared her journey and expectations for the coming year:
“After nearly three years as an optical assistant at Asda Opticians in Horwich, I’ve now begun my pre-registration placement at the Fulwood branch in Preston. My supervisors and manager have been incredibly encouraging and supportive, and the rest of the team are friendly, professional, and great to work alongside. I’m excited to build on my experience and grow in confidence as I develop my clinical skills throughout the year.”
Known within the optical trade as a “pre-registration optometrist programme”, Optom Academy will deliver the year-long training. Each optometrist will be supported by a dedicated Asda Opticians supervisor – each of whom has undergone specialist supervisor training to ensure high-quality mentorship.
