Do you want to become a Orthoptist? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:
Job Description - 
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Orthoptists are specialists in dealing with certain types of eye disorder, such as squints, double vision or ‘lazy eye'. Their ability to detect and treat defects can be vital in preserving people's vision.
While orthoptists work with people of all ages, their patients are often very young or elderly.
The orthoptist uses specialised equipment to identify eye problems. They decide on the best treatment for each patient, and check their progress - sometimes over several years.
Orthoptists screen young children to check for defects in their vision. The work also involves writing up diagnoses and progress reports.
Orthoptists work 37.5 hours a week, Monday to Friday. They work in hospitals, clinics or in the community.
Salaries start at around £18,828 and can rise as high as £37,610.
Besides their expert knowledge, orthoptists need:
They also need to be interested in:
Orthoptists work in the NHS all over the country, and some work in private hospitals or in private practice.
To qualify as an orthoptist, students must complete a three-year degree course. This is run by only two universities, Liverpool and Sheffield, so the competition for places is keen. It is a good idea to arrange to shadow an orthoptist before applying.
The course involves practical experience in orthoptic departments as well as academic study of subjects such as physiology and anatomy.
Opportunities for promotion are good in the NHS. Orthoptists are able to use their skills in teaching or research, and it is possible to work abroad.
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