Specsavers New Malden joined in the Coombe Federated Careers Fair to discuss optical and audiology opportunities with eager students.

The evening event, hosted by Coombe Boys' School, was attended by a variety of businesses, colleges, universities, public sector and corporates.

The Year 9 to 13 students aged between nine and 18 chatted with the various organisations, gaining insight into the many career options available to them.

Karina Peshawaria Kamal, retail director of Specsavers New Malden, said: "We jumped at the opportunity to support Coombe Boys' School careers evening.

"It was wonderful to showcase Specsavers, the training offered across the fields of audiology and optical, and to discuss the apprenticeship programme in place too.

"The students loved learning more about the eyes and the importance of a sight test relative to overall health."

At the event Peshwaria Kamal and her colleague, Sehnaz Uysalramjaun, trainee contact lens optician, handed out goody bags containing a yoyo, skittles, career development leaflets, lens cloths, and eye health guides.

Commenting about her career at Specsavers, Peshwaria Kamal said: "I always wanted to run my own business, and I was delighted to have the opportunity to train with Specsavers who offer a robust career pathway for new store partners.

"It really is a dream come true.

"Both myself and my store partner, optometrist director Bhavisha Patel, are really community focussed, and we're keen to support local schools and our New Malden community.

"We're both grateful for the training we received, so we encourage our team to develop their skills so they too can fulfil their potential."

Commenting on the Careers Fair, Giles Jameson, Assistant Headteacher, Science Teacher, and Deputy Safeguarding Lead, said: "We have had some really positive feedback from our students and parents, so thank you again for your efforts and generosity to support our Coombe Careers provision."

As an organisation, Specsavers encourages its employees to further their qualifications and progress their careers within the business.

The Specsavers Career Pathway offers colleagues the opportunity to study for industry-recognised qualifications which encompass a wide variety of roles, including customer services, optician, dispensing optician, optical assistant, and hearcare assistant.

For anyone who wants to check if their eyesight or hearing is in tip-top condition for 2025, you can contact Specsavers New Malden on 020 8336 7620 or you can book on the store's website.