Postgraduate placements

In Wales, the upskilling of our Optometry workforce is moving at a fast pace. Optometrists are taking on more responsibilities, enabling more patients to be managed in primary care, and treated closer to home.

For future development of our postgraduate Optometrists, HEIW looks to utilise the skills within our own profession, to provide mentorship, leadership and guidance via Advanced Training Practices (ATPs). These practices will provide centres of excellence for training Optometrists on placements.

We want to utilise the skills of our most experienced and qualified Optometrists within the community, to help the advancement of the profession as a whole

These practices will provide quality clinical placements for our trainee Optometrists who require community placements.

Aims of HEIW Advanced Training Practices

to provide opportunities for optometrists, to teach and be remunerated appropriately
to facilitate expansion of the clinical role of optometrists + recognise the contribution our profession makes to the NHS.
to empower Optometrists to maximise their skills, leading to enhanced job satisfaction, motivation, recruitment and retention of the workforce.
to increase availability of placements in a variety of settings ensuring a more rounded clinical experience.
to support Optometrists to develop teaching roles and other areas, such as Quality Improvement, Welsh language, and greener eye care

If you are interested in becoming an Advanced Training Practice or have any questions regarding the availability of post graduate placements, please contact us at HEIW.Optometryatp@wales.nhs.uk.