Two colleagues at the Market Street branch of Specsavers are celebrating after qualifying as Dispensing Opticians.

The firm said this further strengthens the Guernsey store’s expert clinical team and its commitment to professional development.

Cath Gardner, who has worked in the optical industry for over 15 years, began her career in Singapore before joining Guernsey Specsavers in 2017. Since becoming a dedicated member of the local team, she has focused on developing her skills, initially completing additional industry qualifications before undertaking a dispensing optician degree with the University of Bradford.

Pictured: Cath Gardner.

“I’ve felt incredibly supported throughout my studies,” said Ms Gardner. “Being able to complete my degree while continuing to work in store made a huge difference, and I’m really proud to have achieved this milestone.”

Stewart Bell joined Guernsey Specsavers in 2019 after pursuing a career in the hospitality industry.

Drawn to the mix of customer interaction and technical expertise that optics offers, Mr Bell set his sights on further development, completing industry qualifications before enrolling on the dispensing optician degree at the University of Bradford. He is now fully qualified.

Pictured: Stewart Bell.

“I really enjoy the balance between patient care and technical knowledge. The support I’ve had throughout my training has been fantastic and qualifying as a dispensing optician feels like a real achievement.”

Michael Todd, Director of Optics and Audiology at the Guernsey Specsavers store, congratulated both Ms Gardner and Mr Bell on their new qualifications.

“Having more fully qualified dispensing opticians in store is a huge benefit for our patients and our team. Cath and Stewart’s achievements reflect the commitment we have to developing our colleagues and ensuring the highest standards of care for our customers.”

Pictured: Cath Gardner and Stewart Bell at their graduation.

Dispensing Opticians are trained eye care professionals who work closely with optometrists to interpret prescriptions and advise patients on the most suitable frames and lenses for their vision and lifestyle needs.