Consultant Paediatric Ophthalmologist

Consultant Paediatric Ophthalmologist – Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

Closing date: 17 August 2026

The Chelsea and Westminster Hospital Foundation Trust seeks to appoint a Consultant in Paediatric Ophthalmology (substantive post). The post is 10 PAs with a permanent contract.

The Paediatric Ophthalmology service operates within West London Children's Healthcare. The department currently has 2 Consultants, 2.2 WTE orthoptists (1.8 WTE Paediatric Orthoptists) and 0.8 WTE optometrists who provide a refraction and contact‑lens service for both paediatric and adult patients.

Main Duties of the Job

This 10PA post joins an existing team of 1 Consultant Paediatric Ophthalmologist, 2.2 WTE orthoptists and 0.8 WTE paediatric optometrists.

Candidates must have completed training in Paediatric Ophthalmology and will jointly supervise, support, and maintain the department’s reputation for clinical excellence.

Responsibilities include diagnosing, treating and caring for children with ophthalmic conditions, working collaboratively with paediatricians, allied health professionals, and specialist teams to deliver a seamless, child‑ and family‑centred service.

A regional on‑call commitment at Western Eye Hospital (1:30) with an on‑call supplement of 1 % is required.

Education and Qualifications

• Full GMC registration (MBBS or equivalent)
• FRCOphth or equivalent
• On the GMC Specialist Register in Ophthalmology (CCT or CESR with special interest in Paediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus; CCT date within 6 months of interview)
• BSc, MD or other recognised degree

Experience

• Subspecialist training in Paediatric Ophthalmology
• Wide experience in retinopathy of prematurity screening, paediatric ophthalmology and strabismus surgery
• Teaching experience with junior doctors and nurses
• Active participation in CPD and evidence of continuing medical education
• Specific area of interest within paediatric ophthalmology

Skills and Knowledge

• Understanding of the Clinical Governance agenda
• IT proficiency (e‑mail, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Experience leading audit initiatives that effect change
• Contribution to the Clinical Governance agenda, particularly CNST preparation
• Advanced IT skills
• Coaching abilities

Research

• Understanding of principles and applications of clinical research
• Experience implementing evidence‑based changes in practice
• Recent or ongoing research engagement
• Supervision of junior researchers
• Higher research degree
• Peer‑reviewed publications

Other Competencies

• Excellent communication and influencing skills
• Effective multidisciplinary teamwork
• Self‑management and flexibility
• Innovation in planning and approach
• Demonstrated understanding of Trust values (respect, kindness, excellence, safety)

Teaching, Training and Management

• Experience of undergraduate teaching and postgraduate training
• Understanding of clinical management roles
• Contribution to development of new clinical services
• Experience with medical or adult education training
• Participation in management training courses

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975, and a Disclosure and Barring Service check is required.

Equal Opportunities Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all candidates regardless of background.