College Lecturer - Ophthalmic Dispensing - Godmersham, Kent

Full or Part Time Based in Godmersham, Canterbury Starting from £36,000 Optical Education Provider

Zest Optical are working with a leading provider of optical education to recruit a Lecturer in Ophthalmic Dispensing. This is a rare and rewarding opportunity to take on a meaningful academic role, helping shape the future of the profession through high-quality teaching and mentoring.

Whether you're seeking a full-time academic position or want to combine part-time teaching with work in practice, this role offers flexibility, personal development, and the chance to make a lasting impact in the optical sector.

No teaching experience? No problem.
If you're a qualified Dispensing Optician or Contact Lens Optician with a passion for learning and supporting others, full training and support will be provided to help you transition into teaching.

College Lecturer - The Role

• Deliver teaching across pre-dispensing and FBDO-level programmes
• Lead subject areas and contribute to curriculum and material development
• Support learners with portfolio preparation and external assessments
• Collaborate with academic colleagues, tutors, and supervisors to provide a smooth student experience
• Use a range of teaching methods including face-to-face, online and blended learning
• Up to 20 hours of teaching per week (pro rata)
• Full or part time hours available (minimum 2 days per week)
• Primarily campus-based near Canterbury, Kent, with some flexibility for hybrid working during non-teaching periods
• Occasional travel to their national training centre in Birmingham may be required

College Lecturer - Requirements

• FBDO-qualified Dispensing Optician or Contact Lens Optician
• Member of both ABDO and the GOC
• A recognised teaching qualification is desirable, but not essential - full training and support will be provided
• Experience coaching, mentoring or training colleagues in practice is highly valued
• Strong subject knowledge in ophthalmic dispensing
• Comfortable with (or open to learning) digital tools and online teaching platforms
• Excellent communication and organisational skills
• Passion for education and professional development

Salary & Benefits

• Salary starting from £36,000 as a DO (depending on qualifications and experience) Starting from £38,500 as a CLO
• 30 days holiday + bank holidays and no weekend work
• 10% employer pension contribution (5% employee contribution)
• Subsidised on-site staff accommodation available if required
• 5 days per year allocated to CPD and regular staff training
• Free on-site parking
• ABDO membership
• Support with GOC registration fees (pro rata)