Jacqueline Nieto, Deputy Head Teacher at Woolley Wood School, South Yorkshire describes the difference that the proof of concept work for the Special Schools Eyecare Service has made to children and their families.

At Woolley Wood we’ve always known that vision plays a huge role in learning and development. But until the Special Schools Eyecare Service came through our doors, we didn’t realise just how many of our pupils were struggling silently.

Children with special educational needs are 28 times more likely to have eye problems than their mainstream peers yet accessing traditional optometry services can be almost impossible for many families. Hospital visits are stressful, and community clinics aren’t always equipped to meet our students’ more complex needs. Bringing eyecare into the school environment has made such a positive difference.

Immediate impact in the classroom

From the very first clinic, the changes were visible. Pupils who previously found it hard to concentrate were suddenly more engaged. Teachers noticed improvements in posture, confidence, and even behaviour.

We had one pupil who was constantly dipping their head and avoiding eye contact. After getting the right glasses, they sat up straight and started joining in lessons. It was incredible to see that transformation happen almost overnight.

Another pupil, previously thought to have behavioural issues, was actually struggling with severe visual discomfort. Once the right support was in place, their behaviour improved dramatically.

It really opened our eyes -literally and figuratively. What we thought were behavioural challenges turned out to be vision-related. Now that the child can see comfortably, they’re calmer and happier in class.

Removing barriers for families

Parents have been overwhelmingly positive. For many, this service means one less stressful hospital appointment and peace of mind that their child’s needs are being met.

Families often tell us how relieved they are. They don’t have to take time off work or navigate busy clinics. Everything happens here, in a place their child feels safe.

Collaboration between healthcare and education professionals

The success of the service lies in teamwork. Teachers are present during assessments, sharing insights about visual behaviours that help shape clinical decisions. In turn, optometrists advise on classroom adaptations and update Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) to reflect each child’s visual needs.

Unlocking unseen potential

For us, this isn’t just a health service- it’s an educational intervention. When children can see clearly, they can learn, play, and interact with confidence. We’ve seen pupils become more independent, more engaged, and more willing to try new things.

One child who rarely joined group activities now loves art sessions because they can finally see what’s in front of them. It’s changed their whole experience of school.

We hope this service continues to grow as we’ve really reaped the benefits at our school here in Sheffield of taking healthcare services to these children in their familiar environment.  It’s not just improving vision – it’s improving lives.

For more information visit: NHS England » Special schools eye care service