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Higherin

Optical Assistant Review

at ASDA

Higher Level Apprenticeship

Healthcare

Washington, Tyne and Wear

Review Submitted: March 2026

Overall Rating

5 /5

The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!

5/5 - Overview of Role
5/5 - Skills Development
5/5 - Structure and Support

Overview of Role

Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
As a student dispensing optician I assist patients in selecting and dispensing appropriate optical appliances based on their prescription, visual requirements and lifestyle needs, while developing my knowledge and skills through my ABDO training. On a day to day basis I advise patients on appropriate lens options and frame choice, taking measurements such as pupillary distances and fitting heights and ordering and checking spectacles. I also fit and adjust frames on collection and provide advice on spectacle care, ensuring patients receive a high standard of service.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I enjoy my programme to a large extent as it allows me to develop both practical and theoretical knowledge within dispensing optics. I find it rewarding to apply what I learn through my ABDO studies and supervisor directly in practice, particularly when helping patients achieve better vision and comfort with their spectacles. The programme is challenging at times but it has helped me build confidence, improve my technical skills and gain a deeper understanding of optics and patient care

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have developed several new skills and strengthened existing ones throughout the programme. I have improved my ability to interpret prescriptions, take accurate measurements and advise patients on suitable lens and frame options. I have also gained more confidence when fitting and adjusting spectacles for paediatrics and developed stronger communication skills.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The programme is well organised and provides a good balance between practical experience and theoretical learning. Working at Asda opticians allows me to apply what I learn through ABDO studies in practice. The support and training provided by Asda has also helped me progress in my role .
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive an excellent level of support. My colleagues and supervisor are approachable and willing to help with questions or guidance I need. They support my learning and development by allowing me to apply my ABDO studies in practice and gain experience in different areas of dispensing.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
Excellent support from my training provider. They provide clear learning materials, structured teaching and guidance with assignments which helps me develop my understanding of the course content and progress through my studies. Tutors are also available to provide support when needed.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
My qualification helps me perform better in my role by improving understanding of optical theory and dispensing principles. The knowledge gained through my studies supports my practical work in practice.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
At Asda opticians there are opportunities to get involved with training sessions, developing product knowledge and completing CPD to further improve my understanding of optics and patient care.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend ASDA to a friend?
Yes
Why?
It provides a supportive working environment with good opportunities to learn and develop. Everyone is approachable and helpful and the role allows you to build valuable skills while gaining experience in practice. It is a positive environment to work in while progressing within the optical profession.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to ASDA?
I would advise to be enthusiastic, willing to learn and focused on excellent patient care.
In This Review
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