As a career coach who has worked with healthcare professionals for more than 25 years, I know first-hand how competitive NHS recruitment can be. Among the many clinical roles, the NHS Orthoptist position is both rewarding and highly specialised. Orthoptists play a vital part in diagnosing and managing vision problems such as strabismus (squint), amblyopia (lazy eye), and binocular vision disorders. Working closely with ophthalmologists, optometrists, paediatricians, and neurologists, an Orthoptist ensures patients receive expert care that impacts their quality of life every single day.
In the NHS, Orthoptists typically earn a starting salary on Band 5 (£28,000 – £35,000 per annum) with opportunities to progress to senior grades such as Band 6 or Band 7, where salaries can reach over £45,000. Beyond the salary, the role offers professional fulfilment, strong career progression, and the chance to make a tangible difference to patients of all ages.
And yet, many candidates fall short when it comes to presenting themselves on paper. That’s why an expertly crafted Orthoptist CV template is crucial to securing that all-important interview.
Why your Orthoptist CV matters more than ever
With increasing demand on NHS services, recruitment teams are looking for applications that show clinical expertise, teamwork, empathy, and the ability to thrive in a multidisciplinary setting. Your CV must reflect not just your qualifications, but your values, your patient-centred approach, and your ability to contribute to high-quality eye care services.
A strong CV example
tailored to Orthoptist roles demonstrates:
Evidence of HCPC registration.
A degree in Orthoptics from a recognised UK institution.
Clinical placements and rotations undertaken during training.
Hands-on experience with patients in both paediatric and adult settings.
Skills in visual function testing, binocular vision assessment, and ocular motility.
Clear examples of working with other health professionals.
Key sections to include in your NHS Orthoptist CV template
Personal Profile Statement
Open your CV with a short but powerful profile. This is your chance to highlight your clinical expertise, your communication skills, and your commitment to patient care. Write in the first person without using “I”, keeping it professional yet approachable.
Key Skills Section
Orthoptist CVs benefit from a clear skill summary. Examples might include:
Paediatric eye care
Ocular motility assessments
Vision therapy
Clinical decision making
Patient-centred care
Collaborative multidisciplinary working
Research and audit participation
Professional Experience
List placements, NHS roles, or voluntary experience. Use action verbs and outcome-based examples, e.g.:
“Conducted orthoptic assessments for paediatric patients, leading to early intervention strategies that improved binocular vision outcomes.”
Education and Training
State your degree in Orthoptics and any postgraduate training, CPD courses, or relevant workshops.
Professional Memberships
Include HCPC registration and, if applicable, membership of the British and Irish Orthoptic Society (BIOS).
Achievements and Publications
Highlight any research involvement, audits, or presentations that reinforce your clinical development.
Advice for graduates entering the NHS as an Orthoptist
As a graduate Orthoptist, your clinical placements are your biggest asset. Employers want to see evidence that you can apply your academic training to real-world scenarios. When structuring your CV:
Lead with your degree and clinical rotations.
Provide strong examples of patient interaction.
Demonstrate adaptability and eagerness to learn.
Show enthusiasm for CPD and NHS values.
Remember, your first CV is not about having years of experience—it’s about showing potential, passion, and readiness to contribute from day one.
Advice for middle management Orthoptists
At Band 6 level, recruiters expect you to show greater autonomy and leadership potential. Make sure your cv template includes:
Evidence of independent clinics.
Contribution to service improvement projects.
Experience mentoring or supervising junior staff.
Examples of effective patient flow management.
Engagement in research or audits.
You are not just a clinician at this stage—you are a role model for new graduates, so highlight your leadership skills and service impact.
Advice for senior management and consultant-level Orthoptists
At senior levels (Band 7 and beyond), your CV must demonstrate strategic input. Employers are looking for candidates who can manage services, lead teams, and innovate in clinical practice. To stand out:
Detail your leadership of Orthoptic teams.
Showcase examples of service development and change management.
Include presentations at national conferences.
Demonstrate involvement in workforce planning.
Highlight successful collaborations across NHS Trusts.
This is your opportunity to show not just your clinical expertise, but your ability to shape the future of orthoptic care.
General CV writing tips for NHS Orthoptists
Keep your CV no longer than 2 pages.
Use clear headings, bullet points, and consistent formatting.
Tailor your CV for each application—generic CVs rarely succeed.
Focus on achievements, not just duties. Use measurable outcomes where possible.
Match your language to the NHS Job Description and Person Specification.
Always proofread for spelling and grammar errors.
The Do’s and Don’ts of an Orthoptist CV
Do’s
Do showcase your HCPC registration clearly at the top.
Do highlight both technical and soft skills.
Do emphasise teamwork, empathy, and communication.
Do adapt your CV to reflect NHS values.
Do quantify your achievements with outcomes and results.
Don’ts
Don’t use a one-size-fits-all CV.
Don’t include irrelevant jobs unless they showcase transferable skills.
Don’t overuse jargon—write with clarity.
Don’t exceed two pages.
Don’t forget to tailor your cover letter alongside your CV.
Final words from Jerry Frempong – Your NHS CV Coach
For over 25 years, I’ve helped healthcare professionals secure their dream NHS roles. Creating an outstanding Orthoptist CV isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about showcasing your story, your values, and your impact on patient care. Whether you’re a graduate stepping into your first NHS role, a mid-level Orthoptist seeking progression, or a senior manager ready to lead services, the right cv example will set you apart from the competition.
If you’re serious about landing interviews and moving your career forward, I invite you to take the next step. Let’s work together to craft a powerful CV and optimise your LinkedIn profile so that employers see your full value.
👉 Book an appointment today and take charge of your career success with expert support tailored to you.
