Niamh's Work Experience Week

Monday-

On Monday, I was working at the Kilwinning branch with Practice Director Neil and Optical Assistant Scott. I started the day by filing paper records then doing some admin including processing patient voucher forms. In the afternoon I got to sit in on an eye test with Neil, it was so interesting getting to watch an eye exam. I thoroughly enjoyed my day in Kilwinning.

Tuesday-

On Tuesday I had the pleasure of working in the Ayr branch with Pamela and her team. To start my day off there was a forty minute team meeting on Zoom. I then headed upstairs to the office where Pamela showed me how she makes up the rotas and schedules. Next up I assisted Heather the frame buyer by helping her choose new frames for the practices. I then went down and worked in reception with Kimberley who much the same as me was fresh on the job. I also got to work with the Dispensing Optician Cheryl. She showed me how to order lenses on the system and taught me about the frames they have there.

Wednesday-

On Wednesday I was working in the Saltcoats branch with Nicki and Neil. I was mainly on the shop floor, shadowing Nicki while she made appointments, fit people's glasses on collection and helped people by repairing their glasses. Neil let me observe a few appointments in Saltcoats as well.

Thursday-

I was working in the Kilmarnock branch with Peter, Alistair and the team. Peter is chair of the Kilmarnock Business Association so in the morning I joined Peter at a meeting along with other local business owners regarding the town clock. I then got the opportunity to work in the lab with Ian, who showed me how he makes the lenses for each pair of glasses and how to adjust and repair frames.

In the Afternoon I went on a post run with Pamela. To end my day I got to observe an appointment with none other than the Killie legend himself, Alan Power.

Friday-

I was lucky enough to experience a team training day with staff from all the practices, at The Park Hotel. It was a seminar on giving the best patient care then a workshop about glasses styling.

I have been attending eye appointments at Urquharts since I was very young and the service has always been excellent, always made to feel at ease and any questions my mum asked would be answered thoroughly and in great detail. Nothing is ever a hassle, I would definitely recommend Urquharts to anyone.

I feel very fortunate for the week I had at work experience. This has given me a broad insight into many parts of the business. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Neil for organising this, and his amazing team for giving me this opportunity.