Celebrating Toby’s First Class Degree in Ophthalmic Dispensing
There are moments in business that remind us why investing in people is always worthwhile.
Today, we're delighted to celebrate Toby, who has graduated with a First Class Honours Degree in Ophthalmic Dispensing from Anglia Ruskin University.
Achieving a First while working full-time in practice is no small feat. It reflects the intelligence, dedication and professionalism that our patients have come to know in Toby every day.
We couldn't be prouder.
More Than a Degree
At Lynne Fernandes Optometrists, we believe a university qualification is the beginning of a career, not the end of an education.
We're proud to have supported Toby throughout his journey by funding his degree, providing internal mentoring, residential training, and sharing the knowledge we've built over decades of independent practice.
Alongside his academic studies, Toby has learnt skills that simply aren't taught at university:
- Styling people with confidence.
- Curating beautiful independent eyewear collections.
- Understanding facial shape, colour and personality.
- Recommending advanced ophthalmic lens technology tailored to each individual's lifestyle.
- Creating an experience where patients feel understood, rather than sold to.
These are the details that transform a pair of glasses into something people genuinely love wearing.
A Passion for Independent Eyewear
Toby has developed a passion for helping people discover exceptional independent eyewear. Whether it's the bold artistry of theo, the understated Scandinavian elegance of Ørgreen, the timeless New York heritage of MOSCOT, the engineering brilliance of MYKITA, or the beautifully crafted precision of LINDBERG, Toby loves matching people with frames that reflect their personality rather than simply fitting a prescription.
We believe everyone deserves eyewear that's as individual as they are.
Looking to the Future
One of the things we admire most about Toby is his ambition. One day, he hopes to own his own business.
We're excited by that ambition. Our role isn't simply to train great dispensing opticians. It's to help develop thoughtful professionals, confident leaders and future business owners.
We'll continue supporting Toby as he grows his expertise in styling, premium eyewear, patient care and business, just as we've supported many talented people throughout their careers.
Toby's Thoughts
“I’ve loved every step of my journey so far. Studying for my degree while working in practice has given me the opportunity to learn from experienced colleagues and apply what I’ve learnt every day with patients. I love helping people find eyewear that makes them feel confident, and I’m excited to keep learning, developing my styling skills and seeing where my career takes me.”
Congratulations, Toby.
Your First Class degree is a fantastic achievement, but we know it's only the beginning.