Meet an apprenticeship coach: Helen Wilkinson FBDO BSc

“Being nosey and asking lots of questions” was the attraction for Helen when she started as an optical adviser. She tells us what she hopes to achieve as an apprenticeship coach in dispensing optics.

Helen Wilkinson is an apprenticeship coach and tutor

How did you come into the optical profession? 

I applied for a customer service role when I was 21. I decided that this was the right fit for me as it encompassed maths, science and being nosy and asking lots of questions! 

I qualified by what was then known as distance learning (all paper and post) and wanted to be able to honour those who helped me along the way and make sure that I also put something back into the profession.

How will you approach the role of apprenticeship coach? 

It will mean much more interaction with learners, pastoral care as well as academic learning.

Have you had any other jobs at the College? 

I’ve been a tutor for almost 20 years and was also a trustee of the College until recently.

Do you have any outside roles? 

I work in practice as a locum (temporary) DO.

How would you describe your career? 

Interesting, rewarding and enjoyable.

Why should people choose apprenticeships? 

This route offers more support from College, coaches and employers. You have time set aside to study during work hours which hasn’t been available in our profession until very recently. This should make the journey to qualification and onward that little bit less difficult.

What do you hope to achieve as an educator? 

I want to help learners to be the best they can and enjoy the profession as much as I have. 

Do you have any top tips for your students?

Work hard but don’t forget relaxation time too.

Is there anything they should avoid? 

Procrastinating – it’s one I find difficult to avoid but it just makes for more stress!

Do you remember any particular students? 

Many – some are now my colleagues at ABDO College and it always makes me smile when I see a name I recognise pop up on LinkedIn telling me how people are successfully achieving their dreams.

What have you learned as an educator?

People learn in different ways – sometimes it’s hard to get to the best solution but it’s worth the effort.

Do you have any message for students? 

Your coach wants you to be successful so we may nag but it’s because we care!