National Pre-School Vision Programme - See4School

As part of the National Pre-School Child Health Programme, your child is eligible for an eyesight check as
recommended by the Scottish Government, known as See4School. This will be carried out by an Orthoptist who is specially trained to assess children’s vision and to detect a squint.

Eye problems in children are not always easy to recognise. Children who cannot see properly and need glasses think everyone sees the same way as they do and are not aware that they need glasses. Lazy eyes and small squints stop the eyes working together properly and are not always noticeable. They can be picked up easily through vision screening and treated.

If my child needed glasses would I not have noticed a problem?

No - it is very common not to be aware that your child has an eyesight problem. It is not always possible to know that one eye is lazy without testing. Children rarely complain of problems with their eyes.

What if my child already attends an Optician (Optometrist)?

Your child is still eligible to have this test as part of the National Screening Programme. Your child would only be referred if they did not pass the test with their glasses on.

There are very few circumstances where we are not able to test children. It can help us if you let us know of any concerns you may have.

You will be informed of the result immediately following your child’s test. If it is in the best interest of your child, we will share relevant information gathered at the eye test with appropriate professionals to ensure we can provide necessary support for your child.

What happens next if my child requires further assessment?

If the screening test is incomplete your child will be assessed again at a later date. If an eyesight problem is suspected, you will receive an appointment for your child to have a further assessment. An Optometrist or Ophthalmologist will then carry out an assessment for glasses (refraction) and check the health of their eyes. If a problem is confirmed at this appointment, appropriate treatment will be offered to your child.

Further information about the See4School programme can be found at www.nhsinform.scot/see4school