Taking the first steps

Taking the all important first step on the training ladder can be a daunting proposition, especially for the young person who has left school with few academic qualifications and little idea what they really want to do. Is this the right course? Will it be like school? Will I be able to cope with the workload? Will the qualification be recognised? Will this course lead me into another if I want it to? All these questions and more surface to plague the individual with uncertainty and tempt them away from making that important first step.
The Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers (SMC) was very much aware that it had to overcome all these hurdles to make sure that its new Level 2 Certificate in Optical Production Processes (OPP Level 2) qualification really hit the spot for the next generation of optical manufacturing technicians needed for our industry to remain competitive. As chairman of the SMC Training Committee, David Walker is keen to point out that the competition is twofold: first from optics companies overseas and second from every other industry sector in the UK that needs to recruit, train and keep skilled technicians. It is, he says, the latter which concerns him more, stressing the need for the optical industry to promote itself, at every opportunity, as a vibrant, thriving and important part of UK plc.

MODULAR APPROACH
Research showed the SMC that there was a need for a training programme and qualification that meets the requirements of technicians already in or entering the industry, who want to progress, but are perhaps slightly uncertain of what to specialise in. They want a course and qualification that reflects their desire to learn, and gives them the opportunity to take a broad look at the industry they are in. At the same time, they want the content to be relevant to their workplace experience. This is why the OPP Level 2 course is modular, with each module carefully designed to suit each of the different aspects of the industry. Students simply pick the modules relevant to them off the course menu.
The first part of the course is the induction module that sets the optics scene, after which students go on to complete five mandatory modules. These cover both receiving and dispatching orders, health and safety in the workplace, how to contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of work by interacting with others and creating, maintaining and developing working relationships. There is also a core basic optics module.
Having finished these, the student is free to choose whether they wish to specialise in Spectacle Manufacture (surfacing and glazing), Contact Lens Manufacturing (moulded or lathe-cut) or Eye Prosthesis Manufacturing. These modules are clearly set out with stated aims, learning outcomes and content list. The learning process couldn't be simpler; students will know what they are doing, why they are doing it and what they will achieve. The other crucial point to note is that at the end students can take the Level 2 Certificate in Optical Production Processes that is fully accredited by QCA (Qualifications and Curriculum Authority), ACCAC in Wales and CEA in Northern Ireland. This means it is on the National Qualifications Framework and will be eligible for funding support provided the Local Learning and Skills Councils approve.
How does the training work? SMC provides a distance learning course run by experienced and skilled tutors to guide students through the course. It will need some effort, but the results will be well worthwhile for all concerned.
The qualification is assessed by a straightforward written examination with no practicals and will test students' underlying knowledge of their chosen optical manufacturing process.
'It is important,' says David Walker, 'to make sure that what we offer from the SMC, dovetails both with the Government's NVQ Programme and what we traditionally offered from the SMC ie the level 3 course in optical manufacturing, leading to the SMC Tech qualification. This is still very much alive and well, but is a higher level course and qualification, is much more academic and focuses on the technology and physics of optics for spectacles only and leads to successful students being able to put letters behind their name. The new level 2 Certificate in Optical Production Processes, steers a different path. It is academic in that there is a study programme and a recognised qualification by written examination, yet is flexible and aimed at the entire production process and thus accessible for established operators and technicians, as well as fresh starters in the industry. Successful OPP Level 2 students can then progress onto the Level 3 SMC Tech course and qualification.
'In relation to the alternative NVQ in optical manufacturing programme, the new OPP Level 2 course and qualification is ideal. NVQs are based on demonstrating competence in the workplace and assessment on the job rather than examination. But what better way for an NVQ student to gain his or her underpinning knowledge and capability in an area, than to point to the fact they have completed the appropriate modules of a recognised training course? In addition, the NVQ assessor will be only too pleased to accept the Level 2 Certificate in Optical Production Processes as proof of underpinning knowledge. There will be no doubt as to the student's ability with this certificate in his/her portfolio and the assessor will be happy to sign off as appropriate.'
APPRENTICESHIPS
In the next few months it is expected that the optical industry will be able to announce the launch of an apprenticeship (as seen on TV advertisements recently) in optical manufacturing. These are part of the Government's drive to improve skills in manufacturing and develop young people's skills and knowledge. The Level 2 certificate will form a key part of the apprenticeship and will create further advantages of taking the first step with the SMC.

INFORMED DECISIONS
Walker admits that the overall training picture in the optical technician sector looks complex on initial viewing, but thinks once people realise that the SMC's courses and qualifications work both independently as stand-alone achievements and also fit perfectly with and complement the NVQ Programme, they will be able to make informed decisions on what is correct for them as individuals. Equally, employers will be able to advise their staff on which course they think will benefit both the employee and the business.
This is undoubtedly an exciting time for budding young (and not so young) optical technicians to take up the gauntlet and prove that they have what it takes to succeed. There has never been a better time to choose a course that suits and it is more than likely that the course that will be chosen in the first instance will be the OPP Level 2.
The first course is due to begin in a few months' time, so what should anyone interested in finding out more do now? The first thing to do, says David Walker, is to contact the Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers on 020 7236 2932/8645 and register your interest. The SMC will then send more information, including a registration form as soon as it is available. Formalising the career structure of optical production staff will benefit the individuals and the whole profession.