Introducing Scotland’s Foundation Training Year

Launching in 2028, the Foundation Training Year (FTY) marks a new, nationally supported approach to optometry placement provision in Scotland.  Delivered during the final, fifth year of the Master of Optometry (IP) programmes at Glasgow Caledonian University and the University of the Highlands and Islands, the FTY will place real clinical practice, innovation and confidence‑building at the heart of clinical placement provision.

Designed to prepare future optometrists for modern eyecare delivery, the FTY will strengthen the transition from university learning into day‑to‑day patient care.

This newsletter introduces a new communications package to support the profession as Scotland moves toward an integrated, future‑focused model of optometry placement provision.  Over the coming weeks and months, we’ll share what’s changing, why it matters, and what it means for you in practice.