Two apprentices at Specsavers in Acton are highlighting the benefits of vocational training to mark National Apprenticeship Week (9 February – 15 February 2026).
Kashif Manjlai, 24, joined the locally owned store six months ago on a Level 2 Customer Service Practitioner apprenticeship. He hopes to qualify before progressing into dispensing and management.
Kashif said: “The apprenticeship scheme is amazing because I receive so much support from my colleagues, plus the directors ensure they keep up with my progress and offer support as needed too. I’m a very practical person, so learning on the job is fun and enjoyable.”
He added that he would “highly recommend an apprenticeship because of the guidance, support and encouragement you receive”.
Leonie Shayna Luckie-Edghill, 20, completed her Level 3 Optical Assistant apprenticeship in November 2024 and is now studying biological sciences at the University of West London while continuing to work weekends at the store.
Leonie said: “It helped massively with my people and communication skills, organisation and building confidence, plus it’s given me lots of optical experience.”
Sneha Pancholi, director and dispensing optician at Specsavers Acton, said both apprentices had shown commitment and enthusiasm, adding that the structured training programmes provided “a great foundation to support” careers in optics and healthcare.
