Vision Screening – Oxfordshire Service Offer (OHFT CYP 0–19)
Our Vision Screening service is part of Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust’s Children and Young People (0–19) team. We provide school‑entry vision screening for Reception‑aged children across Oxfordshire to help identify vision problems early. The NHS recommends screening at age 4–5 years to detect reduced vision so children can receive timely treatment. [1, 2]
Who we are
- Priti Kashyap – Orthoptist and Vision Screening Lead: Responsible for clinical leadership, service quality and parent/carer information across Oxfordshire.
- Aimee Burgon – Screening Coordinator: Plans school schedules, liaises with headteachers and SENCOs, and supports families with queries.
- Screening Healthcare Assistants (SHCAs): Trained staff who carry out the vision screening in schools using a child‑friendly approach.
What we do
We offer vision screening to all Reception‑aged children in schools supported by OHFT. Screening looks for reduced vision in one or both eyes (amblyopia or ‘lazy eye’) and common focusing problems that can affect learning and development. Early detection improves outcomes because vision continues to develop until around 7–8 years of age. [1, 2]
How screening works
- Screening happens in school time. We use a simple and recommended letter‑matching test (i.e. logMAR Crowded test-interactive) so children do not need to know their letters. One eye is covered at a time using a patch or occluding glasses to measure each eye separately. [2]
Photo from vision screening for 4 to 5 year olds (PDF, 1.54Mb)
- If your child is absent on the day we visit, we will return for a catch‑up session (where possible). If screening is still missed for any reason, please book a free NHS sight test with a local optometrist. [1]
On the day – what your child can expect
- A friendly SHCA will collect small groups from class and explain the ‘matching game’. We show a card with symbols/letters and ask your child to point or say which one matches. [2]
Photo from: Schoolscreener.com
- We test each eye separately by gently covering one eye at a time. The check is quick, painless and many children enjoy it. [2]
Photo from: Schoolscreener.com
- We do not put drops in the eyes or use any other equipment that touches the eye during school screening. If further tests are needed, these would happen later in a clinic. [2]
We have sent a video to their class teacher to show them what to expect on the day, which should help prepare them.
Accessing results – School Screener parent account
The screening outcomes will be ready for you to view within 2 working days following the screening. To view your child’s screening result and any follow‑up advice, it is essential to create a School Screener parent account when prompted by the link we send you. Instructions on how to create an account are also at the bottom of this page. This secure system lets you see results quickly and means we can contact you promptly if further care is needed.
If your child passes their Vision Screening
If your child’s screening shows no concerns, that’s great news! It means that at the time of screening, their vision was fine and developing as expected. However, vision can change as children grow. We recommend:
- Continuing with routine health checks.
- Booking an NHS sight test every two years (or sooner if you notice any changes), as screening does not check for every eye condition.
- Staying alert for signs like squint, headaches, or sitting very close to screens—contact an optometrist or GP if these occur.
If screening suggests reduced vision
You will receive a letter via School Screener with next steps. Depending on your child’s results, we may refer your child for full assessment in hospital or advise for you to take them for a free NHS sight test with a local optometrist(opticians). They will check the vision fully to determine if there is a need for treatment and discuss the results of the tests and if necessary possible treatments with you.
Who to contact if you’re worried (age‑specific)
- Under 4 years: speak to your Health Visitor or GP if you have concerns at any time; they can refer to Orthoptics/Ophthalmology if needed. [1]
- Age 4 years and over: you can book an NHS sight test with a local optometrist (optician) for any vision concerns; optometrists can refer to hospital eye services if required. [1]
Important Note About Vision Screening
Vision screening is a quick check designed to identify children who may have reduced vision or need further assessment. It does not detect every possible eye condition. Sometimes screening can give a false positive result, meaning your child may be referred even if their vision is healthy. Please don’t worry—this is why we recommend the next steps. A full eye assessment will confirm whether treatment is needed and ensure your child gets the right care.
School Screener Parent Portal
The School Screener Parent Portal is a secure online system where you can view your child’s vision screening result, read any follow-up advice, and receive messages from the OHFT vision screening team. Using the portal helps us share information quickly and safely, and it makes it easier for you to keep everything in one place.
Why it matters:
- Results are available sooner and stored securely.
- You’ll get clear next steps if we recommend a full assessment.
- It helps us contact you promptly if we need to arrange further care.
- Reduces paper letters getting lost and ensures you have a record to refer back to.
How to access the portal
- Open the link we send you by text or email and follow the prompts.
- Portal link: School Screener Portal
- Create your parent account (or sign in if you already have one). Use the same email/phone number the school holds for you.
- Confirm your child’s details when prompted.
- View the screening result and any recommended next steps.
- If you have questions, use the contact details provided in the portal message.
Tip: On most phones, a link will appear at the top of the screen—tap it to open the portal.
Troubleshooting
- Didn’t receive a link? Check your spam/junk folder. If still missing, contact us at schoolscreeningteam@oxfordhealth.nhs.uk and we’ll re-send it.
- Can’t log in? contact support@schoolscreener.com, then select ‘Forgot password’ to reset if needed.
- Prefer paper? Let us know and we can arrange an alternative.
Data privacy: The portal uses secure, NHS-approved processes to protect your data. Your child’s information is only visible to you and the clinical team involved in their care.
Trusted resources
- NHS – Eye tests for children: https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/eye-tests-in-children/ [1]
- GOV.UK – Child vision screening: information for parents: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/child-vision-screening-information-for-parents/child-vision-screening-information-for-parents [2]
- GOV.UK – Vision screening for 4 to 5 year olds (parent leaflet): https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/64aff270fe36e000146fa8e8/vision_screening_parent_leaflet_Jun23_PRINT.pdf [2]
- NHS – Squint (strabismus): https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/squint/ [3]
- Oxford University Hospitals NHS FT – Amblyopia (Lazy Vision) leaflet: https://www.ouh.nhs.uk/media/20cbim2r/68994pamblyopia.pdf [4]
- Royal College of Ophthalmologists – Ophthalmic Services for Children (roles and pathways): https://www.rcophth.ac.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Ophthalmic-Services-for-Children-March-2021.pdf [6]
- NHS – Red eye: when to get help: https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/red-eye/ [5]
References