What makes Scotland’s placement model different?

Developed in response to the GOC’s updated Education and Training Requirements, and designed to support the Master of Optometry (IP) programmes at Glasgow Caledonian University and the University of the Highlands and Islands, the FTY introduces a distinct approach to undergraduate optometry placement provision in Scotland, setting it apart from arrangements elsewhere in the UK.

💊 Integrated MOptom (IP)

Students now complete a single, integrated Master of Optometry (IP) that brings together academic learning, clinical placements, and Independent Prescribing.

The FTY will form part of the final, fifth year of the programme.

Successful completion of the MOptom (IP), including the FTY placement, provides a direct route to GOC registration at graduation. The first cohort will graduate in 2029.

👥 New Supervisory Team

During the FTY, each student will be supported by a supervisory team comprising a practice-based Clinical Supervisor, a PSDS-appointed Educational Supervisor and a university-appointed Academic Mentor. This model will distribute responsibility and strengthen educational support across the year.

For more information on supervising in the FTY, see the FTY Supervisor Hub.

📍 Two-Placement model

Students will complete two 24‑week clinical placements in different locations, gaining experience across a wide range of clinical settings, patient groups, and approaches to care.

Each transition between placements will be supported and structured, helping students adapt confidently to new teams and environments.

Independent Prescribing (IP) learning will be embedded throughout the year, with:

- - At least one placement with an IP supervisor
  - IP Simulation sessions
  - Teach and treat clinics to reinforce prescribing related skills

🧑‍🎓 Student Status

Throughout the FTY, students will remain registered university students, completing the FTY as part of the fifth year of their degree. They will be supernumerary learners rather than employees of placement providers.

🧩 A nationally coordinated placement year

NES has a central role in the FTY, coordinating placements, overseeing quality management, supporting supervision, and supporting assessment processes, creating a consistent national model.

📝 New Assessment Framework

Assessment will shift away from a single end‑point exam model toward continuous, workplace‑based assessment aligned to real clinical practice. The FTY will use Supervised Learning Events (SLEs) to help students evidence the required outcomes through logged experience, observed practice, and structured review.