Audiologists in the frame for National Learning at Work Week
A Macclesfield opticians is shining the spotlight on two newly qualified team members and encouraging locals to sign up to its award-winning apprenticeship scheme – all for National Learning at Work Week (13 – 19 May).
Leigh Steele, 37, has just qualified as a hearing aid dispenser after successfully completing his apprenticeship at De Montfort University. The learning programme involved course assessments, weekly learning journals and one-to-one sessions with his apprenticeship coach, alongside his daily duties at Specsavers in the Grosvenor Shopping Centre.
He began his Specsavers career in 2010 after completing a degree in archaeology and worked as an optical assistant at Specsavers Dunstable. Keen to return to his Cheshire roots, Leigh transferred to Specsavers Macclesfield. Looking to the future, his big ambition is to own and run a Specsavers hearcare business.
36-year-old audiology practitioner, Nastassja Scott, joined Specsavers six years ago and has just completed her training to professionally remove ear wax, which can cause discomfort and impaired hearing. She hopes to follow in Leigh’s footsteps to become an audiologist within the next two years.
Laura Deakin, Specsavers audiology director, says:
“We’re always keen to celebrate career successes, we believe that our apprentices are the stars of the future.”
“We place a lot of emphasis on staff development and ensuring everyone has aims and objectives, whether that’s to be part of the future management team or to become hearing aid dispensers or fully-fledged audiologists. Making sure people have something to work towards is crucial in helping to retain team members.”
“Our apprenticeship programme has a great track record. As long as you’re a hard worker, willing to learn, punctual and ambitious, you will do well at Specsavers.”
Leigh adds:
“This is a job that allows me to make a real difference in the community. Helping people to hear clearly again is something I will never grow tired of.”
The Specsavers apprenticeship scheme is open to anyone aged 16 and upwards, including recent school and college leavers or those looking for a new challenge. Training lasts for 13 months, but there are also degree level apprenticeships available, which take three to four years to complete.
Over the past four decades, Specsavers has been committed to investing and staying at the forefront of optical and audiology technology and trends. The store offers a wide range of services, including eye tests, prescription eyewear and contact lenses, as well as hearing checks, hearing aids and wax removal.
Specsavers, which also offers a Home Visits service for those unable to visit one of its 1,000 locally owned stores, provides a range of eye care services that not only help to maintain eye health and vision, but also help detect broader health issues.
To book a hearing or sight test, simply call Specsavers Macclesfield on 01625 501 111 or go to www.specsavers.co.uk