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Association News
11 November 2016
Issue 194
GOC seeks registrant Council members
The General Optical Council (GOC) currently has two vacancies for registrant members on its Council, closing on 28 November 2016. As his term comes to an end, outgoing DO member Liam Kite explains what he’s gained from his time on Council.

It hardly seems possible that eight years have gone by since I took my place on the GOC’s Council. It has been tremendously rewarding and fulfilling to serve as a member and it is something I would recommend to every registrant.

At the start of my term I faced a steep learning curve, but I was surrounded by passionate and forward thinking colleagues with varied areas of expertise, making it a highly enjoyable challenge. There were many exciting developments during my term, but one that particularly stood out was Council’s involvement in the new Standards of Practice that came into effect in April 2016. It was an unparalleled opportunity to shape the future of the optical professions.

The Educational Strategic Review will be a great adventure – unfortunately I won’t be there to see this through to conclusion, but at least I was there at the start! That will be a fantastic experience for new Council members.

Another highlight of my term was being involved in the relocation from Harley Street to the new ultra-modern offices at the Old Bailey - a move that has allowed for a much more efficient working environment. I shall miss the work of Council, but I can happily say that I’m ending my time there having grown as an individual. I would very much recommend that anyone who wishes to influence the future of optics applies for this highly rewarding role.

The deadline for applications is 12pm on Monday 28 November 2016. All details of how to apply can be found on the GOC website.

Click here to visit the GOC website
ABDO response to BBC Watchdog

ABDO is deeply concerned by the allegations made by the BBC Watchdog programme (broadcast 9 November) that dispensing opticians at two high street chains are giving incorrect advice on the effects of blue light.

ABDO general secretary, Tony Garrett, said "There is absolutely no evidence that the persons filmed were dispensing opticians indeed it is clear most were certainly not DOs.

"We regard this issue as a serious one but deplore the inaccurate statements about dispensing opticians made by the programme. We will be raising this with the BBC and programme makers."

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WCSM Education Trust awards bursaries Read More
2017 ABDO gala dinner

The 2017 ABDO gala dinner will be held during Optrafair on Sunday 2 April at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole.

The gala dinner is a unique networking event for dispensing opticians and other professionals from across the optical sector. It provides a valuable opportunity to meet friends within the dispensing profession and foster new relationships in an informal atmosphere.

Click here to read more and to book online
The student revision event of 2017

Two days covering full FQE practical revision, portfolio content and peer discussion

Wednesday 3rd to Thursday 4th May 2017

Yarnfield Park Training & Conference Centre, Yarnfield, Stone, Staffordshire ST15 0NL

Read More
What's new in EyecareFAQ?

New in EyecareFAQ, you’ll find an infographic to share on the subject of nystagmus.

Get involved with EyecareFAQ, ABDO’s campaign to help consumers learn more about looking after their eyes, and the role of the registered dispensing optician.

You can use any of the EyecareFAQ answers, images and infographics on your own blog or website. Follow, like and share these useful resources on your practice and personal social media channels, to help the public learn about eyecare and promote the role of the registered dispensing optician.

You can find EyecareFAQ at:

or visit the EyecareFAQ section of the ABDO website and promote the role of the registered dispensing optician.

Click here to access the infographic and the embedded code
ABDO CET – Arundel

PLACES STILL AVAILABLE

  • 6.30pm, Monday 14 November 2016
  • The White Swan, 16 Chichester Road, Arundel BN18 0AD
  • Up to 6 interactive CET points available
Click here to book online
Final reminder for graduands wishing to attend the ABDO graduation ceremony

All eligible graduands wishing to attend the 2016 ABDO graduation ceremony at Canterbury Cathedral on Wednesday 23 November must book their gown hire, photography requirements and tickets online, via the Ede & Ravenscroft website, before Monday 14 November 2016.

Click here to view the 2016 graduation ceremony handbook
Fight for Sight Christmas Carol Concert

The first Fight for Sight Christmas Carol Concert will be held on Tuesday 6 December at the beautiful St Stephen's Church Walbrook in the heart of the City of London.

It will be a celebration of Christmas for all the family featuring popular carols and festive readings. Guest readers include BBC Radio 4 broadcaster Sue MacGregor and presenter and broadcaster Jan Leeming. They will be joined by Imperial College Choir.

It’s the perfect opportunity to gather with friends and family and support pioneering eye research.

The event will begin at 6.30pm and following the concert, we will host a drinks reception with mince pies in the church.

Carol concert tickets are available at cost £25 for adults and £10 for children.

Click here to order tickets
ABDO College Low Vision Honours Course Read More
ABDO College Access Courses Read More
WCSM courses available through ABDO College

The WCSM courses available through ABDO College range from Level 2 Optical Support to Level 4 Optical Technicians. The programme also includes Fast Track Technician Training for FBDOs. WCSM courses currently available from ABDO College include:

  • Level 2 & Level 3 Optical Support
  • Level 2 & Level 3 Diploma in Optical Retail Skills
  • Level 2 & Level 3 Diploma in Manufacturing Spectacles
  • Level 4 Diploma for Optical Technicians
  • Fast Track Technician Training for FBDOs
  • SCQF Level 5 & Level 7 Certificate in Optical Care

All of these courses lead to qualifications awarded by the Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers.

Read More
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