An application for a degree-level optometry apprenticeship pathway has been submitted to the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE), without consulting sector bodies, the Association of Optometrists has said.
The AOP said the trailblazer group had confirmed the application had been submitted to IfATE for approval, with a decision expected in January 2022. A consultation period of just 12 days (November 4-16) was also launched.
Responding to the update, AOP chief executive, Adam Sampson said: ‘Patient safety has to be at the forefront of how the education framework is developed for
optometry.
‘We’re disappointed but not surprised that the trailblazer group has demonstrated a disregard for the deep concerns raised across the profession by submitting this proposal without consulting the sector bodies. Our firm position is based on an unprecedented level of feedback and concern from our members, who view the proposal
as it stands with a serious lack of confidence.’
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