SMC reveals its career development plans

The Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers (SMC) is providing specific training programmes and qualifications for optical staff in sub-professional grades, offering them nationally-recognised career progression opportunities.

Training is supported by tutors and undertaken by distance learning. Material is sent out unit by unit each month and examinations take place at venues across the country. During 2009, it is expected that candidates for the Level 2 awards will also have the option of e-assessment in the workplace.

All the qualifications are accredited by Ofqual (QCA), the English national accrediting authority and recognised formally by the regulatory bodies in Wales and Northern Ireland. They are recognised informally by the Scottish authorities.