Expanding Competence Safely

Competence can and should grow, but expansion is safest when structured and supported.^[1][2]

Pathways to safe growth

New skills are best developed through:

• Structured training, supervised practice, and peer support.^[2][6]
• Practising under guidance in low-risk environments to build confidence before independent application.^[3][2]
• Reflection and CPD records to track development and plan next steps.^[4]

Recognise your stage and don't attempt tasks prematurely.^[5][1]

By seeking feedback, practising under supervision, and gradually extending scope, professionals protect patients while expanding competence responsibly.^[6][2]

Maintaining competence includes ensuring registration is current, CPD obligations are met, and revalidation requirements are fulfilled.

Practitioners must also hold the appropriate qualifications for extended services such as independent prescribing, contact lens fitting, or low vision care, and ensure these remain valid before providing such functions

References (numbered in text) Why we include references

1. Standards of practice for optometrists and dispensing opticians, General Optical Council Find (opens in a new tab)
2. Supervised workplace learning in postgraduate training: a realist synthesis; Medical Education; Anel Wiese, Caroline Kilty, Deirdre Bennett (2018) Find (opens in a new tab)
3. Entrustability of professional activities and competency‐based training; Medical Education; Olle Ten Cate (2005) Find (opens in a new tab)
4. Reflective exercise, General Optical Council Find (opens in a new tab)
5. Good medical practice, General Medical Council (2024) Find (opens in a new tab)
6. Does clinical supervision of healthcare professionals improve effectiveness of care and patient experience? A systematic review; BMC Health Services Research; David A. Snowdon, Sandra G. Leggat & Nicholas F. Taylor (2017) Find (opens in a new tab)