Committees & groups

The Academic and Research Committee promotes research, innovation and evidence-based practice. It helps ensure the College’s work is informed by high-quality evidence and emerging developments in ophthalmology. 

Key responsibilities:

Support dissemination through journals and programmes

• Advise national bodies, including NICE
• Oversee development of clinical guidelines
• Promote academic workforce development
• Support research training and career pathways
• Build partnerships with research organisations 

Terms of reference: Academic and Research Committee 

Subcommittees:

• British Ophthalmological Surveillance Unit
• Clinical Guidelines 
• Eye Editorial Board
• Paediatric Subcommittee  

The Education Committee supports professional development at every career stage. It oversees educational activities, events and resources that help ophthalmologists and eye care professionals develop clinical and professional skills. 

Key responsibilities:

• Develop and deliver education programmes and resources
• Organise courses, events and Annual Congress
• Expand digital learning opportunities
• Manage awards and scholarships
• Maintain high standards in ophthalmic education
• Respond to changing workforce and learning needs 

Terms of reference: Education Committee

Subcommittees:

• Courses and Events Subcommittee
• Digital Learning Subcommittee 

The Examinations Committee oversees the development and delivery of College exams. Its work helps ensure assessments remain fair, robust and aligned with the standards expected of ophthalmologists throughout their careers. 

Key responsibilities:

• Review exam performance and quality assurance
• Maintain validity and consistency of assessments
• Appoint and support examiners
• Set policies for exam delivery
• Work with the General Medical Council to meet regulatory standards

Improve processes and communication for candidates 

Terms of reference: Examinations Committee 

Subcommittees:

• CertLRS 
• Duke Elder
• Part 1
• Part 2 

The Finance, Audit and Risk Committee provides oversight of the College’s finances and risk management. It helps ensure resources are used effectively and supports informed decision-making across the organisation. 

Key responsibilities: 

• Monitor financial performance, budgets and forecasts
• Review the College’s financial position
• Ensure financial policies reflect best practice
• Oversee audit preparation and external scrutiny
• Monitor risk management processes and controls
• Support Trustees with financial insight 

Terms of reference: Finance, Audit and Risk Committee

The Quality, Audit and Standards Committee supports improvements in the quality and safety of ophthalmic care. It develops standards, guidance and audit activity that help services deliver high-quality care for patients. 

Key responsibilities:

Develop and share clinical standards and guidance

• Advise clinicians, services and partners
• Identify and prioritise national clinical audits
• Oversee the National Ophthalmology Database
• Support implementation of standards in practice
• Engage with patients, professionals and regulators 

Terms of reference: Quality, Audit and Standards

Subcommittees:

• AMD Project Working Group 
• NOD Project Working Group
• Healthcare Resource Group 
• Digital Health Working Group 

The Training Committee leads the College’s work on ophthalmic training and workforce development. It works with partners across the UK to help ensure training remains high quality, relevant and responsive to the needs of the profession. 

Key responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain the training curriculum
• Monitor delivery of training programmes
  Support trainees and trainers
  Manage national recruitment with NHS England
  Oversee ePortfolio and progression processes
  Promote skills development and simulation training 

Terms of reference: Training Committee

Subcommittees:

• Curriculum
• International Medical Graduates 
• Ophthalmic Recruitment
• Portfolio Pathway
• Skills and Simulation

The following committees and groups provide specialist advice, member insight and expertise to support the work of Council:

• Global Subcommittee 
• Lay Advisory Group 
• Membership Working Group 
• Ophthalmologists in Training Group 
• Policy Committee
• Specialty and Associate Specialist Committee 
• Workforce Committee