Optical career in the frame for Erdington apprentices during National Apprenticeship Week

Amaan Khan and Sabha Mahmood, who both work at Specsavers on the High Street, are currently mid-way through the Specsavers optical assistant apprenticeship programme, following in the footsteps of colleague Mehreen Altaf, 22, who recently graduated. All are sharing their experience with others as part of National Apprenticeship Week (10-16 February).

Sabha, 21, joined the team in search of a new challenge, and the prospect of a position where you’re able to learn new skills as you go really appealed. Ultimately, she is interested in training to be a dispensing optician but has also expressed an interest in finding out more about the hearing side of the business.

‘The programme has been fantastic, with the team supporting me to develop new optical skills and grow in confidence,’ says Sabha ‘It’s exciting to know that there are so many pathways available after qualifying, and while I’ve been training to become an optical assistant, I’m keen to learn more about the audiology opportunities too.’

Amaan, 19, also joined Specsavers to explore a career path with the opportunity to grow and progress.

‘I’m really enjoying the mix of hands-on, practical learning and studying, and I can definitely see the progress I’ve made since the start of the programme,’ he says. ‘My colleagues have been really helpful and supportive, and I’m excited about the prospect of continuing my career with Specsavers.

Specsavers store director, Manjit Sidhu, adds: ‘Apprenticeships are a great way to unlock the potential of young people or those looking for a career change, and provide a way for them to embark on successful and fulfilling careers. The Specsavers scheme offers learners an excellent opportunity to enter the world of work in a safe and structured way, providing them with a real job, great training and qualifications.’

Anyone interested in applying for an apprenticeship with Specsavers can visit: https://join.specsavers.com/uk/apprenticeships and search for apprenticeships.

To find out more or to book an appointment at Specsavers Erdington, pop into the store at 138 High Street, Erdington, B23 6RS, call 0121 3821477 or visit www.specsavers.com/stores/erdington.