SPECSAVERS Hammersmith located in the Livat Centre is proud of its track record of providing training and career progression for all staff members. They regularly recruit school and college leavers onto the National Apprenticeship Scheme which offers a structured training programme that equips trainees with a broad skill base.
A recent apprenticeship recruit, Jamilino Salomon joined the store team in 2022 after he left Richmond Upon Thames College in 2013 having gained a Level 3 BTEC in Graphic Design. Currently training as an Optical Assistant Apprentice, Jamilino said; I was attracted to the Specsavers apprenticeship training as I had always had an interest in optics, I admire the brand, and the directors and store team are really friendly.’
In April 2023, Jamilino will complete his apprenticeship. During the last 6 months he has also attended various in-house Specsavers training courses, and has proven himself to be a valuable member of the team. What he really enjoys about his role at Specsavers Hammersmith is helping customers with their vision, which he finds incredibly rewarding. Indeed during his first two months in store, Jamilino was awarded a Specsavers Smiles Award for outstanding customer service.
Commenting on the apprenticeship training, Jamilino said; ‘The apprenticeship programme with Specsavers offers ongoing development, valuable work experience and a great team environment. I also have a dedicated apprenticeship mentor who supports and guides me on a regular basis.
The training scheme is equipping me with lots of new life skills, including customer service. I really enjoy helping customers resolve any issues and helping them to choose the glasses that are right for them. This has helped build my confidence, plus it provides specific industry related skills as well. I now really appreciate the importance of having sight tests and the correct prescription.
Continuing Jamilino said; ‘I would advise any student to consider an apprenticeship role with Specsavers, and just go for it! Everyone is really supportive with your learning, plus you learn a lot about the optical field, and at a good pace too!
Specsavers Ophthalmic Director, Onkar Singh Khambay said; ‘As a store we are keen supporters of the national apprenticeship programme, it provides school and college leavers with the opportunity to train for a profession. At Specsavers we offer career pathways for all staff including apprentices. So there are lots of opportunities to train and progress.’
Continuing, Mr Khambay commented; ‘We see the Apprenticeship as an opportunity to learn about how the store operates, be part of the team whilst learning great skills including customer service, telephone skills and generally building their confidence and overall employability. Jamilino is a great asset to the store team and provides our customers with an excellent service.’
For anyone interested in applying for a Specsavers apprenticeship there are a selection of roles available across the country in optometry, audiology, laboratory technician, customer service practitioners and office support staff. Most of the apprenticeships last up to 13 months depending on the qualification. Applicants must have a minimum of a grade D in English and Maths to be considered. To find out more about the apprenticeship scheme and the 400 available, please visit the Specsavers website.
