About Insight Optical Training

Founded in 2017, Insight Optical Training is a specialist provider of education, training and professional development for the optical sector.

We support people at different stages of their careers, from those entering optics for the first time to experienced optical support staff and registered professionals seeking to extend their knowledge and skills. Our courses, qualifications and continuing professional development (CPD) activities draw on extensive experience in optical practice, education, assessment and professional development. Whether you are an individual learner or an organisation looking to develop your team, our aim is to make high-quality optical education accessible, practical and relevant to the workplace.

Our learning philosophy

We believe that creating a positive learning environment from the outset is key to successful learning. Training should be engaging, interactive and enjoyable. Our enthusiasm for the subjects we teach helps us create an environment in which learners feel motivated, supported and confident in developing their knowledge and skills.

Committed to continuous improvement

We are committed to our own professional development as well as that of our learners. We continually review developments in optics, education and training to ensure our courses remain relevant, effective and up to date.

Working in partnership

We see our customers as partners. By understanding their needs and working collaboratively, we aim to build long-term relationships and deliver training that supports both learners and organisations in achieving their goals.

Learning designed around people

We believe effective education should be engaging, accessible and relevant to professional practice. People come to learning with different experiences, responsibilities and development needs. We recognise these differences through flexible delivery, clear learning resources, meaningful activities and appropriate learner support.

Our approach draws on educational experience and a commitment to continuous improvement, using learner feedback and developments in professional practice to inform the design and delivery of our training.

Anthony Blackman — Founder and Managing Director

MSc, BSc(Hons), FBDO CL (Hons)SLD SMC(Tech) CertAcc(Open) PGCertMedEd
FBCLA FRSA FRSPH FHEA FLPI FITOL FInstCPD MIoD MILM MCIOF
Chartered Educational Assessor

Anthony Blackman founded Insight Optical Training in 2017, bringing together his experience in optical practice, higher education, assessment and professional development.

Anthony began his career in optics in 2004, qualifying as a Dispensing Optician in 2009 and a Contact Lens Optician in 2011. He subsequently worked in higher education as a Senior Lecturer in Vision Science and Programme Director, supporting the education and development of optical professionals.

Alongside leading Insight Optical Training, Anthony has held senior roles in assessment, qualification development and quality assurance, including Chief Examiner and Chief Moderator responsibilities with NCFE, and examining and sector advisory work with Pearson.

His experience extends beyond optics into professional regulation, awarding organisations and governance. He holds a portfolio of non-executive and trustee appointments across education, professional standards and the charitable sector, including senior chairing roles. Anthony holds an MSc, BSc (Hons) and postgraduate qualification in medical education. He is a Chartered Educational Assessor and holds a range of professional fellowships in optical practice, education and professional development.

He has a particular interest in digital education, educational technology, assessment innovation and the responsible application of artificial intelligence in learning and assessment.

Through Insight Optical Training, Anthony is committed to making specialist optical education accessible, engaging and professionally relevant.

How we work

We listen

We take time to understand your objectives, challenges and development needs, whether you're an individual learner or an organisation.

We develop

We design and deliver practical, engaging learning experiences that reflect the needs of the optical sector and the people working within it.

We support progress

We help learners build knowledge, confidence and skills, supporting their professional development and career progression.

We improve

We use feedback, reflection and developments in education and optical practice to continually improve our training.

Key professional appointments

IOSH — Chair of Trustees; Chair of IOSH Awarding Organisation
Skills and Education Group Awards and BIIAB — Chair
National Examining Board for Dental Nurses (NEBDN) — Independent Board Member; Chair, Education Standards Committee
Family Mediation Standards Board — Independent Board Member; Chair, Training Panel
Scottish Geology Trust — Vice-Chair
Association of Chairs — Trustee

For a fuller professional profile, visit Anthony’s LinkedIn profile.

Why learn with Insight Optical Training?

Specialist optical expertise

Training developed by professionals with experience across optical practice, education and assessment.

Flexible online learning

Learning designed to fit around professional responsibilities, with structured resources and tutor support where applicable.

Career-focused qualifications and CPD

Opportunities to build knowledge, develop professional skills and support career progression.

Support for individuals and organisations

Training and development options for individual learners, optical practices and wider organisations.