Career in optics: Khelis’ inspiring growth story at Boots Opticians
What first attracted you to Boots Opticians and the apprenticeship route?
I have worn glasses since I was 4 years old and I always remember going to my local Boots Opticians for my eye examinations. My family had always trusted the staff and the environment was always welcoming and warm. Alongside this, Boots is a trusted brand and well known for giving to the community, so to be a part of this is very special. My own experiences with Boots Opticians made me appreciate the care that I had always received, which encouraged me to consider potential career opportunities here.
I applied to Boots Opticians as an Optical Assistant apprentice after declining my place at university – I felt apprehensive about going. I was worried that, without any hands-on experience, I would not like my chosen route and that I would need to start again from scratch. That is what first attracted me to the company, an apprenticeship allowed me to explore the field of optics and to develop my passion more organically. Through my apprenticeship, I gained invaluable hands-on experience and developed greater confidence in my abilities and reinforced my commitment to a career in optics. It was one of the best decisions that I have ever made!
How did Boots Opticians support you throughout your apprenticeship and your journey to becoming a qualified Dispensing Optician?
During my apprenticeship, I received help from monthly check-ins and ongoing support from my mentor. Prior to starting my course to become a Dispensing Optician, my team dedicated time to enhancing my problem-solving abilities and dispensing expertise in preparation for the Level 6 Diploma in Ophthalmic Dispensing.
As a Student Dispensing Optician, I received guidance from my primary supervisor, Richard, and secondary supervisor, Carmine, both of whom consistently provided valuable advice and assistance. The team at Chelmsford played a crucial role in my development, supporting me through practical exercises such as conducting facial measurements and assessing my knowledge of ocular conditions.
What does a typical day look like for a Dispensing Optician?
I spend a large part of my day with patients discussing their eye care needs and expectations to dispense them the best possible pair(s) of spectacles. Each patient requires a different outcome, so it is important that a meaningful discussion is had first. I help to oversee the care of the vulnerable groups within practice, including children and the visually impaired from supervising their glasses orders to fitting appointments. I also spend a part of my day verifying the new orders as they arrive in practice or helping to up-skill my colleagues with their dispensing knowledge.
What has been your proudest moment so far in your career journey?
Firstly, having qualified as a Dispensing Optician in August of this year. There is a lot of studying involved, as well as working full time, and writing up 51 case records. It was particularly special to have qualified with another Student Dispensing Optican, Rory, and my primary supervisor, Richard, who qualified as a Contact Lens Optician – a joint celebration of so much hard work!
Secondly, I successfully taught a visually impaired patient how to safely insert and remove contact lenses independently. This was a true challenge as I had to adapt my approach to rely on the other senses and use other descriptors to ensure patient safety and confidence in a unique way.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
My favourite part of my role is that no two days are the same, I get to see a wide range of people from all walks of life, all with different experiences and needs. Everyday is an opportunity to improve my clinical skills and empower patients to make informed choices around their eye care and glasses. Getting to see the patients return to collect their glasses and see how happy they can be with the look and vision makes it all worth it.
How do you see your career developing over the next few years?
I have always had a keen interest in the clinical side of the business, especially ocular eye conditions. So, I have my sights set on hopefully converting to Optometry to become an Optometrist. There is also the new level 7 qualification in paediatric eye care which is also an amazing opportunity to advance my skills as a Dispensing Optician.
What advice would you give to someone starting a career in optics?
My advice to anyone who is starting in optics is to take everyday as it comes and embrace the challenges you may face. The profession is extremely rewarding and there are so many opportunities to progress and support the greater community. You will have a positive impact on patient wellbeing every day you come into work. From supporting them to select their new pair of spectacles to empowering them with the knowledge around their eye health. It is a privilege to help people everyday – something I have not taken for granted over the last six years.
