Free sight tests for special schools

Free NHS sight tests will be made available within all special school settings, the government and NHS England confirmed last week. Additional testing in special education day schools will be rolled out next year, adding to the commitment in the NHS Long Term Plan to offer sight tests within residential special schools.

Pupils at special schools can face additional challenges in accessing sight testing services through opticians and a successful pilot scheme has proven the benefits of receiving tests and personalised advice in their familiar learning environments.