Free NHS eye tests for school starters
Calling all parents and carers. Do you have a child starting school this year? Remember to get their eyes tested before they start.
Published: 21 August 2025
All children can get free NHS eye tests up to the age of 16, or if they are aged 16, 17 or 18 and in full-time education.
A child does not have to be able to read for their vision to be checked.
It’s important to remember that not all children will show signs of having a vision problem. However, there are some signs that could indicate that a child may have a vision problem.
These include:
- They have headaches or eyestrain
- They complain of blurred vision
- They are falling behind with their schoolwork / studies
- They have attention / concentration issues
- They have issues with hand eye coordination
- They’re unusually clumsy
- They have siblings or family members who wear glasses or have eye problems
- They may appear upset or angry at a particular task, pushing it away
Not all children will show signs of vision problems, so without regular tests there is a risk an eyesight issue may not be spotted.
To find your nearest optician please visit: www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-an-optician