Role Summary
We are pleased to offer an exciting opportunity for a motivated, reliable, compassionate individual to join our Orthoptic Department as an Apprentice Orthoptist. This role combines paid employment with academic study, leading to a BSc (Hons) in Orthoptics and eligibility to apply for HCPC registration on successful completion.
You will work as part of a friendly multidisciplinary ophthalmology team, gaining hands-on clinical experience whilst studying with Sheffield University, our approved apprenticeship provider.
We are seeking applications from those who have experience working in an ophthalmology outpatients setting, in particular within paediatric ophthalmology or orthoptics.
About the Role
For more information on the Job Description and Responsibilities please click the link below.
More detail about the role
You will be enrolled on the 36 month Sheffield University orthoptic apprenticeship.
This is delivered online with a requirement to travel to Sheffield at set times during the course.
You will assist qualified orthoptists in the assessment and management of patients with visual and ocular motility disorders.
As your training progresses you will learn to:
- Assess visual acuity, binocular vision, and eye movement abnormalities under supervision
- Support clinics for paediatric and adult patients, including those with strabismus, amblyopia, and other specific neurological conditions e.g. Myasthenia gravis and Thyroid eye disease.
- Maintain accurate clinical records in line with Trust policies
- Attend university teaching sessions, complete academic assignments, attend a yearly placement at a different Trust to gain more experience and meet apprenticeship requirements
- Demonstrate professional behaviour in line with HCPC and Trust standards
Training and Development
Enrolment on an approved Orthoptics Degree Apprenticeship programme
- Protected study time for university attendance and independent learning
- Supervised clinical training and regular progress reviews
- Ongoing support from practice educators and the wider orthoptics team
- There will be a requirement to travel to Sheffield University at set times during the course.
Entry Requirements
Essential:
- A levels: CCC or equivalent experience in a relevant work environment (e.g. as an Orthoptic assistant or vision screener)
- OR BTEC Extended Diploma MMM in a healthcare or science subject
- OR Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 9 at Distinction and 36 at Merit.
- Equivalent work-based experience will be considered on an individual basis. Please contact us to discuss any questions about your qualifications.
- PLUS GCSEs at grade C/4 or above, including Mathematics and English Language.
- Willingness and ability to study at degree level
- Commitment to completing the full duration of the apprenticeship.
- Ability and willingness to attend a 4 week block clinical placement each year which may be outside the south west.
- Ability and willingness to visit Sheffield for face to face teaching at set time during the course.
- Good communication skills and a caring, patient-focused approach
Other requirements
- A satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Enhanced Disclosure check (or EU equivalent)
- A satisfactory occupational health screening report
- Experience of working in ophthalmology out patients ideally in paediatrics or orthoptics.
Annexe 21: If your current salary exceeds the Annex 21 pay scale, you will continue to receive your existing salary and banding for the duration of the apprenticeship
Working Pattern: 37.5 hours over 4 days: 3 x9.5 hour days and 1 x 9 hour day
Interview Date: 6th February 2026
Please note, this is an internal vacancy for Royal Devon employees, therefore Bank workers are currently not eligible to apply for this vacancy.
For further information please contact: Laura Doucas, Head Orthoptist on 01392406031 laura.doucas@nhs.net.
As an inclusive employer, the Royal Devon values diversity and is committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We believe in fostering a sense of belonging and actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities. We recognise the advantages of having a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.
Preference will be given to staff with ‘Priority’ and 'At Risk' status including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon.
The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust reserves the right to close vacancy when sufficient applications have been received.
The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust was established in April 2022, bringing together the expertise of both the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust and Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust.
About Us
Stretching across Northern, Eastern and Mid Devon, we have a workforce of over 15,000 staff, making us the largest employer in Devon. Our core services, which we provide to more than 615,000 people, cover more than 2,000 square miles across Devon, while some of our specialist services cover the whole of the peninsula, extending our reach as far as Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
We deliver a wide range of emergency, specialist and general medical services through North Devon District Hospital and the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital (Wonford). Alongside our two acute hospitals, we provide integrated health and social care services across a variety of settings, including community inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, and within people’s own homes. We also offer primary care services, a range of specialist community services, and Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARC).
Our state-of-the-art equipment, leading technologies and strong links to local universities put us at the forefront of research and innovations, enabling us to provide world-class care to our local communities.
Our values are at the heart of everything we do, click here to find out more
It has never been a more exciting time to join the Royal Devon, as you will help to shape our services as we continue along our integration journey.
Benefits
Looking after you is important to us.
We strive to help our staff create a healthy work-life balance through flexible working schemes and our family friendly policies.
If you are starting out in the NHS, you’ll start with 27 days paid annual leave (plus bank holidays), rising to 33 days plus bank holidays.
You will benefit from access to our own comprehensive occupational health services, including counselling, onsite wellbeing activities and groups.
We will work together to maintain a culture that develops and supports you and your team.
This might include funding for a care certificate, a degree or leadership qualifications. Or it might include days off to study, engage in CPD or rotational placements to help you hone your skills. Wherever you are heading in the NHS, we will help you get there.
Salary is not the only financial benefit
You will have access to an extensive range of staff discounts on shopping, fitness and leisure options and you can spread the cost of technology and home appliance purchases from major retailers. You will also have access to other benefits including:
- National discount services such as the Blue Light Card and Health Service Discounts.
- Salary sacrifice options including our OFSTED rated outstanding nursery onsite at Exeter
- Car lease schemes.
- The NHS Pension scheme (one of the most generous and comprehensive in the UK).
- Cycle to work scheme
These are just a few of the benefits available – if the role is something you are interested in, we would love to hear from you.
