What is Vision Screening

Vision screening is a service where your child is examined and tested for visual problems at school.

This is a simple, safe, non-invasive test which is fast and reliable in detecting reduced vision.

The testing is performed by a trained orthoptist or optometrist who will carry out a measurement of your child’s distance vision for each eye using software on a computer and testing booklets.

What are the possible results?

Your child will receive a letter stating

1. A pass to indicate their vision is good and that no further testing is required at this time.
2. A refer which indicates our testing has detected reduced vision in one or both eyes.

What are the common reasons for failing the test?

Amblyopia is a condition where one or both eyes has reduced vision. It is estimated that 3 to 5% of children have amblyopia.

Amblyopia can be treated if detected early so many children can benefit from school vision testing if they take part.

If there is a delay to detection or treatment of amblyopia then a child can be left with a lazy eye for the rest of their life.

If your child fails the test, your child will be fast tracked for a referral to a vision specialist who will perform further detailed testing. This can be done via your child’s GP through the NHS or straight to a private children’s vision clinic.

There are other rare causes of visual loss in children and the School Health Check service is designed to pick these up and refer on for further specialist evaluation.