Burrowmoor Primary Academy in March leads vision health initiative for children in partnership with local opticians

Burrowmoor Primary Academy in March is pioneering a new approach to children’s vision health through an innovative partnership.

The school, which is part of the Diamond Learning Partnership Trust, has set up a unique partnership with Harrison Coley Opticians on Elwyn Road.

Spearheaded by Headteacher Ruth Bailey, this collaboration highlights the crucial connection between eye health and students’ academic performance.

As part of the initiative, Burrowmoor hosted sessions designed to engage students in essential eye care practices, covering topics from caring for glasses to techniques that reduce eye strain.

These sessions aim to minimise vision-related learning challenges and enhance pupils’ daily school experiences.

At the school’s parent evening on Tuesday and Wednesday, Harrison Coley’s clinical team provided a Q&A stand, offering parents guidance on common vision issues like visual stress and myopia.

Parents were also able to book free NHS eye tests on-site, simplifying access to professional eye care for families.

The initiative also included a specialised training session led by Harrison Coley’s clinical lead optometrist, Vik Measuria, for teachers and teaching assistants. Staff were trained to identify early signs of eye issues, such as visual stress and myopia, that are often mistaken for learning or behavioural difficulties.

“Up to 20% of students experience visual stress, often shown through squinting, headaches, or difficulty reading,” said Mr Measuria. “By recognising these signs early, teachers can help students get timely eye care, which supports their well-being and learning.”

Burrowmoor Primary Academy and Harrison Coley Opticians plan to make regular vision screenings a staple of the school’s health programme. As screen time continues to rise, so does the need for early detection of eye issues like myopia in children.

“We are so glad to have worked closely with Harrison Coley Opticians to support our children and families in achieving optimal eye health,” said Mrs Bailey. “Based on research it is clear that the sooner children receive support for eye issues, the better their life chances. Our staff feel more empowered from our training, and we look forward to continuing this valuable partnership.”

Mr Measuria added: “We’re thrilled to partner with Burrowmoor Primary Academy to create a supportive environment where children can excel both academically and visually. Schools are essential in early detection, helping to protect children’s futures in today’s technology-driven

world.”

To help more families support their children’s eye health, Harrison Coley Opticians welcomes all parents and children from Burrowmoor Primary Academy to book an appointment via their website at www.harrisoncoley.co.uk.

This initiative reflects Burrowmoor Primary Academy’s dedication to holistic pupil development, combining educational support with physical well-being to foster success for every child.