There is now an ophthalmology pathway in the Higher National Certificate and Diploma in Health and Social Care Practice. The specification can be downloaded from here https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/btec-higher-nationals/health-and-social-care-practice-2025.html#tab-Diploma. The Higher National Certificate is a Level 4 qualification for someone working as an ophthalmic associate or similar role; the Higher National Diploma is a Level 5 qualification for an ophthalmic assistant practitioner. AHPO is seeking a college that will deliver the Higher Nationals. If you want more information and updates please email contact@ahpo.net.