Before your child starts primary school, they'll be offered a vision screening appointment as part of the See4School programme. Depending on your Health Board’s policy, your child will be tested at their nursery, a community clinic or a hospital eye clinic. This will usually be carried out by a health professional called an orthoptist and checks for reduced vision in one or both eyes.
Early detection of problems with your child’s eyes means that any treatment can be started as soon as possible. It'll help your child begin school with the best possible vision and help to prevent lifelong visual problems.
In addition to having a pre-school vision screening appointment, your child should have a regular free NHS eye examination undertaken by an optometrist at a community optometry practice (opticians). You can search for optometry practices in your area on NHS Inform.
Further information on pre-school vision screening can be found also on NHS Inform.
What if my child misses their screening appointment?
If your child is absent on the day of screening, you'll be offered an appointment for your nearest community or hospital eye clinic.
If you do not receive a rescheduled appointment, contact your health visitor or school nurse. Alternatively, any community optometry practice will be able to provide an NHS-funded eye examination, which your child should have regularly in any case.