Orthoptic Practice Education

Undergraduate degree programmes can be undertaken at the University of Sheffield, University of Liverpool and Glasgow Caledonian University. The degree programmes are 3 years in duration (4 years in Scotland), and comprise both theoretical and practical components. The practical components include block clinical placements. Alternatively there is now a postgraduate Orthoptic Msc course at University College London. This is an excelerated intense course over 2 years.  The degree programmes have been approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), and upon graduation graduates are eligible to apply for registration with the HCPC and membership with the British and Irish Orthoptic Society (BIOS).

The Orthoptic Department within the Borders General Hospital is based in the Borders Eye Centre. This is located on the ground floor in the yellow zone.

We welcome Orthoptic students within NHS Borders, and are committed, through our Practice Placement Agreement, to offer a specific number of placements each year. We aim to provide the Orthoptic student with a wide clinical experience and as such a clinical placement within NHS Borders will include both hospital and community based clinics. In addition to adult and paediatric Orthoptic clinics you will have the opportunity to experience specialist Orthoptic clinics, eg Low Vision and Visual Stress clinics; Vision Screening; Ophthalmology clinics; Nurse-Led clinics and Ophthalmic theatre. You will also participate in case discussion and review.

Considering a career in Orthoptics ?

If you enjoy science,working with people of all ages and would relish the challenge of problem solving and making descisions independently orthoptics could be the career for you! Find out more about a career in orthoptics on the British and Irish Orthoptic Society webpage. 

Confidentiality

All students are expected to comply with the HCPC ‘Guidance on conduct and ethics for students (2016)’ and the British and Irish Orthoptic Society ‘Code of Ethics (2012)’ whilst on clinical placement within NHS Borders. Upon arrival all students will be asked to sign a Confidentiality Agreement. Further information on this can be found within the NHS Borders ‘Information Governance Policy (2012)’.

Dress Code

The Orthoptists within NHS Borders wear a uniform. It is expected that your dress at all times will be smart and professional.

Transport

In order to give the student a wide clinical experience, whilst on clinical placement within NHS Borders you will be requested to attend a range of community as well as hospital based clinics. Access to transport is therefore essential.

Lunch/ Breaks

A restaurant and RVS shop are available within the Borders General Hospital. For community based clinics it would be advisable to bring your own lunch and any additional snacks required.  Tea & Coffee facilities will be explained during your induction. 

Library Access

A library is located within the Borders General Hospital which students are able to access.  As well as books and journals, the library offers computer and photocopier access.  Access information will be available to all students as part of your induction. The Orthoptic Department has its own selection of literature which can be accessed whilst on placement.

Contact Details

We run Orthoptic clinics at various locations throughout the Scottish Borders: