College works to broaden horizons

Positive feedback has been gathered by the College of Optometrists a year after changing the format of its higher qualifications to concentrate on enhanced services.

Courses were introduced last winter at City University and Cardiff University, including diplomas and broader qualifications such as in primary eye care.

Professor John Lawrenson, director of the postgraduate programme at City University, said: 'The development of a College-accredited national qualification is an important step in standardising the training of optometrists in this speciality and will provide an assurance to commissioners of the competence of those completing the programme.'

Members and those who have successfully completed one of the courses will be awarded their certificates at the College's Diploma ceremony at Central Hall, Westminster in November.