A LOCAL optical apprentice has finished a national training programme within an impressive timescale on their journey to becoming a Dispensing Optician.
The Level 5 Optical Practice Support Modern apprenticeship traditionally takes between 12 to 18 months to fully complete, however Erin Lawrie, who works at Specsavers’ Union Street store, has completed the course in just six months, which is one of the fastest known recorded times in Scotland.
Subscribe to our daily newsletter
Why? Free to subscribe, no paywall, daily business news digest.
The optical course was designed to support businesses in the optical industry and is suitable for employees with minimal experience that want to quickly learn their trade.
Following this course, employees could then enrol onto a BTEC Level 3 and 4 qualification and then go on to receive sponsorship from the store to study at university and become a qualified Dispensing Optician.
The course offers an alternate career path for people outside of the traditional full time university degree, giving a chance to learn whilst in work.
Talking about her recent accolade, Erin says: ‘The idea of an apprenticeship was a little daunting at first, but Marie and the team have made the process so manageable with all their support. The store is a really friendly and positive environment so we I’ve enjoyed coming into work every day.
‘It isn’t just a job, I believe it’s a real chance to learn from brilliant professionals and build a solid foundation for my career where there is a clear path of progression.’
Specsavers is committed to the Young Person’s Guarantee, which aims to connect every 16 to 24 year old in Scotland with opportunities that may otherwise not have been available.
Marie Anderson, training and development manager at Specsavers on Union Street, says: ‘We’ve been fortunate to have had many apprentices and trainees with us in recent years and they have all been fantastic. It’s a joy for me to watch young people grow, gain expertise, and become an integral part of our team.
‘As long as you’re ambitious and willing to learn, you will do well in this field and there is plenty of opportunity for growth, as Erin is proof of We’re looking forward to watching Erin develop professionally and we’re so proud of how far she has already come.’
For more information on potential opportunities with Specsavers visit www.jobs.specsavers.co.uk/apprenticeship or call the store Aberdeen Union Street store on 01224 641234.
