College rides to the rescue

A sponsorship scheme started by the College of Optometrists has supported 19 international optometry graduates through their pre-registration period.

The scheme was approved by the UK Border Agency in June 2012 and plans have been confirmed to support a further 20 graduates this year.

The College was forced to step in last year (News 27.04.12) after visa regulations for international students changed. It would have meant non-European Economic Area students having to return home after graduating and being unable to complete their pre-registration training.

Jacqueline Martin, College director of education, said: 'As part of our commitment to supporting optometrists throughout their career, we have provided a solution that ensures that international students have the opportunity to complete their training in the UK.