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Why did you decide to become an Advanced Clinical Practitioner (ACP) and what drew you to ��«Ӱҵ in particular?

I was attracted to the ACP programme as I wanted an opportunity to consolidate my prior experience within paediatric ophthalmology and to enhance my skills to support the care of patients attending our services.

“Often parents attending the orthoptic clinic would report changes in signs or symptoms, but without proficiency in slit lamp or retinoscopy skills and detailed paediatric ophthalmology knowledge, I could not always resolve the issue within the orthoptic clinic.

“Parents would sometimes also have questions pertaining to planned investigations or procedures which I could not always confidently answer, creating additional delays and potential anxiety for patients as well as work for colleagues.”

What have you enjoyed most about the programme?

“I have most enjoyed meeting other eye care professionals in the same roles. The case discussions and learning opportunities that we can gain from our tutorials have been a great source of learning.

I enjoy seeing how I can extend myself to better support a range of children attending the eye clinic, both at the hospital and in their wider health, education and social care needs.

Kate Hon

Advanced Clinical Practice Ophthalmology (Paediatrics)

How have you found the support offered by the University of ��«Ӱҵ?

“��«Ӱҵ provides support through tutorials, informal catch ups and prompt responses to queries, often by email. When I have needed more detailed support, this has been available through individual meetings, including an allocated personal tutor.

“Taking on postgraduate study along with life outside work and study does pose its challenges, but I have found the teaching staff to be understanding of these aspects.”

How is the programme helping your professional development?

“I have learnt a wide range of ophthalmic examination and management techniques, as well as enhancing skills such as critical evaluation of ophthalmic literature. I have also deepened my leadership knowledge, as well as the opportunity to develop presentation skills in my year two modules. 

"These skills are supporting my clinical role, and have enabled me to reflect and develop my approaches to education across children, young people and their families and carers, as well as within my clinical professional sphere.”

What would you say to someone thinking about training as an ACP in this field at the University of ��«Ӱҵ?

“Training as an ACP in paediatric ophthalmology at ��«Ӱҵ has offered me great opportunities to learn and develop as part of the ophthalmic team.

“I have enjoyed discussions with fellow trainee ACPs, and relished the opportunities to learn from qualified ACPs and orthoptists leading the way to expand the orthoptic role in leadership and education, as well as clinical aspects. I have also benefited from discussion with students further on in their ACP study too.

“I would encourage other orthoptists, optometrists and ophthalmic nurses to consider how the specialised ACP in paediatric ophthalmology course could support their career journey.”