Study finds multiple reasons for pre-reg training

Taking on young members of staff works both ways. While students can learn from experienced professionals, their enthusiasm often breathes new life into the practice.

Latest data collected as part of March’s Optician Market Monitor indicated that around 41% of optical practices currently offer pre-reg training.

Of the 59% of practices that did not, the primary barrier was funding. Indeed, 60% of those not offering pre-reg schemes cited financial reasons.

Meanwhile, 33% said they did not have a trained supervisor to even entertain the possibility of having trainees, and 7% reported a lack of demand from potential pre-reg students.

Of the Market Monitor respondents that did offer a pre-reg placement in their practice, three-quarters had subsequently trained to be supervisors, which demonstrated the professional appetite to pass on skills when the opportunity presented itself.