Throwback Thursday – Dr Gillian Ruddock MSc PhD MCOptom DipTp(Ip) H Cert Glauc

Thank you to former student, Dr Gillian Ruddock, who recently joined our alumni network and shared her story – from Winstanley College to Consultant Optometrist and Head of Eye Support at Wirral University Teaching Hospitals.

Gillian says: ‘I attended Abraham Guest High School before attending Winstanley College where I studied for A-levels in Physics, Chemistry and Maths. College was the stepping stone between school and university. It allowed me to develop skills in a supported environment, that I would go on to use throughout the rest of my career. The friends I made at Winstanley are still very much part of my life today and give me a sense of grounding and belonging no matter how far I travel away from my roots.

My interest in optometry was sparked by my first eye test as a child. I was fascinated by the colours, the lights, the lenses, the magician wielding them who could make me see! I was hooked! An early school trip to a university optometry department and a local optometrist who took time to allow to undertake work experience cemented the deal. The role of this mentor at an early age was not to be underestimated.

I studied as an undergraduate at Aston University, followed by a pre reg in a small multiple. I returned to Aston as a clinical demonstrator allowing me the opportunity to undertake some clinical teaching whilst studying for a PhD in visual development using electrodiagnostic techniques. During this period, I also the opportunity to do some low vision sessions in hospital and work as a locum in independents and multiples

The hospital work set me on a long, at times, challenging but ultimately rewarding career in secondary care. The role as consultant optometrist has allowed me to develop my clinical skills and to support this, I have undertaken College of Optometrists higher qualifications in Glaucoma and I am an independent prescriber.

I lead a multidisciplinary team and have undertaken management and coaching qualifications to support this.

I deliver clinical care within a hospital clinic on the Wirral. I treat adults and children with a range of eye conditions. I lead a multidisciplinary team of optometrists, orthoptists, imaging and technical staff working closely with medical and nursing colleagues.

I became President of my professional body, The College of Optometrists in April this year. This is an incredible privilege and I hope I can continue and build on the legacy of my predecessors shaping the future of eyecare in the UK.

I am incredibly proud of those whose careers I have been able to support, having supervised, colleagues who are now professional and academic leaders in their own right. It is a gift to be able to pay forward the time and faith that others have invested in me. I would like to continue to do more of this support in future.

To anyone considering a similar career path I would say you have chosen a brilliant profession! The opportunities to have a varied balanced job as an optometrist have never been so great.

The subjects you choose to study now will be the next step on a lifelong journey of learning. Sometimes things will not go the way you thought and will be challenging but you will find allies and support in places you may not have expected. Don't be afraid to try something new and never be too proud to admit you don't know the answer and ask for help.’