Play a key role in educating the future of our profession
Academic Orthoptists play a vital role in shaping the future of the profession by educating and inspiring the next generation of orthoptists. Whether you’re a practicing orthoptist looking to share your expertise in academia, or you already contribute to higher education, joining the ranks of academic lecturers can be an enriching and influential path.
Why Pursue Lecturing in Orthoptics?
As an academic orthoptist, you will:
- Mentor Tomorrow’s Orthoptists: Guide and support students as they develop the foundational skills and advanced knowledge needed in clinical practice.
- Engage in Research: Contribute to research that advances clinical techniques, patient outcomes, and the science of vision care.
- Enhance Your Professional Development: Build expertise in teaching, curriculum design, and research, while expanding your own clinical knowledge.
- Collaborate with Diverse Networks: Partner with academic institutions, research bodies, and health organisations to promote best practices and advocate for the profession.
Support and Opportunities through BIOS
As part of the 2024-2025 Workforce Development programme, the British and Irish Orthoptic Society is developing a range of resources to support orthoptists interested in academia. Here are some of the upcoming tools and materials that will be available—keep an eye out for new updates:
- Dedicated Academic Website Content: Access to the latest information through a new academic section on the BIOS website.
- Professional Development Resources: Explore online resources to help support clinicians take the leap from clinical to education and potential mentorship opportunities.
- A Growing Community of Educators: Engage with a network of academic lecturers who are passionate about orthoptic education and clinical excellence.
BIOS encourages experienced orthoptists to consider lecturing as a rewarding career path. If you’re interested, visit our Careers section for information and guidance on orthoptic career opportunities. Look out for the upcoming Orthoptic Career Development Framework — a valuable tool to help you map your career path in orthoptics, expected in April 2025.