Professional Development Framework Project
How the Professional Development Framework Was Developed
The development of the new Orthoptic Professional Development Framework has been a collaborative and inclusive process designed to reflect the evolving needs of the profession. BIOS partnered with Creative Alliance, led by Stephanie Tempest, to lead this important work.
Stephanie facilitated a series of national workshops, conversations, and drop-in sessions with orthoptists from across the UK to gather ideas, insights, and feedback that would shape the framework. To ensure broad representation, a dedicated focus group was established, bringing together key members of the orthoptic profession from all four nations.
Following this engagement, Stephanie and her team developed the first draft of the framework, which was finalised and signed off in March 2025.
We then worked to enhance the framework further by improving usability and expanding content. To ensure a high-quality finish, a professional designer was commissioned to bring the framework to life visually.
The final version of the Framework was launched on Thursday 19th June 2025, as part of the Orthoptic Workforce Programme. An initial pilot evaluation was undertaken with undergraduate orthoptic students in 2026; the findings are available here.
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