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The General Optical Council has removed a total of 399 student opticians and dispensing opticians from its registers for failing to renew their registration for 2008/9 by the deadline.

According to the Council, when compared to last year's figures, this represents a 3 per cent increase in the number of students who failed to complete the retention process.

It added that it would now be sending lists of students who have been removed to the relevant education providers and examining bodies.

Acting GOC registrar and chief executive Dian Taylor warned: 'Unregistered students who intend to continue with their studies must make sure they re-apply for registration before the autumn term gets under way. Student opticians have a responsibility to demonstrate professionalism and accountability from day one in their careers, which means getting their retention application and fee in on time.'

The GOC has further warned that any unregistered student who carries out reserved functions, such as sight testing, may face prosecution for a criminal offence.

To re-apply for registration, students must submit a completed application for student registration form and pay the £20 retention fee. The Council added that retention forms would no longer be accepted.

Application forms for student registration and further information are available from the GOC website, www.optical.org.  

The Council also reminded first-year students starting optometry or dispensing optics courses this year that they would need to register before their course begins.

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