Spectacle Technician Apprentice Review
at Specsavers
Degree Apprenticeship
Manufacturing
Reading
Review Submitted: September 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
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
5/5
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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
My role involves manufacturing spectacles from start to finish. This includes reading prescriptions, checking and blocking lenses, using the edging machines, fitting lenses into frames and completing quality checks. I also carry out repairs, order lenses and help maintain the lab.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I really enjoy my programme because I like the practical side of working in the lab and learning new skills. I have become much more confident and independent since starting, and I enjoy seeing myself improve as I gain more experience.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have learnt a lot of new skills since starting my apprenticeship. I have developed my glazing and blocking skills and learnt how to work with different types of frames, including plastic, metal, supra and rimless. I have also improved my knowledge of lenses and prescriptions, and become more confident working independently in the lab.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
My programme is well organised and structured. I have regular coaching sessions and learning journals to complete, alongside practical training in the lab. I know what I am working towards and what I need to complete for my apprenticeship.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive a good amount of support from my employer. My colleagues help me develop my practical skills and are available if I need help or have questions. I am also given time to complete my apprenticeship work and develop my skills in the lab.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
receive a good level of support from my training provider. I have regular coaching sessions where we go through my progress, apprenticeship work and anything I need help with. My coach is also available if I have any questions or need extra support between sessions.
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 because I learn the theory behind the practical work I do in the lab. This has improved my understanding of prescriptions, lenses, tolerances and different glazing techniques, which I can then apply to my day-to-day work.
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
Yes there are a range of activities, from football tournaments to Christmas staff parties.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Specsavers to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend Specsavers because it is a good place to learn and develop new skills. I have been given opportunities to gain practical experience while also developing my knowledge through my apprenticeship. The team is also very friendly and helpful towards new members making it a very inclusive environment.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Specsavers?
I would say be willing to learn, ask questions and take on feedback. There is a lot to learn, so being patient and taking every opportunity to practise and develop your skills is important.
