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Pre-school vision screening

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Pre-school vision screening - also called See4School - is an eye test for nursery-aged children. It detects reduced vision in one or both eyes and can find some eye conditions.

Important: Contacts

If you have any questions or would like more information about Pre-School Vision Screening in your area, please telephone:

Argyll and Bute residents: 0141 314 9706

Highland residents: 01463 704443

About pre-school vision screening

Orthoptists will visit nurseries across NHS Highland throughout term time to carry out pre-school vision screening. 

Information will be provided to parents and carers by the nursery, in advance of the test. If your child does not attend nursery they will be offered an appointment at your nearest eye clinic prior to starting school.

Early detection of reduced vision means treatment can be started quickly. This will help your child begin school with the best vision possible.

The eye tests are appropriate for your child's age and ability and are designed to be fun.

It is very important to have your child's eyes tested even if you have not noticed any problems.

Important: Under 16s - free eye tests and help towards the cost of glasses

NHS Inform Logo

Even if your child passes screening, they might still develop sight or eye problems as they get older. All children should have their eyes tested by an optometrist (optician) once a year. 

Children under 16 are entitled to:

  • a free NHS funded eye test every year.
  • an NHS optical voucher. This helps towards the cost of glasses or contact lenses. 
  • Free repairs or replacements of lost or broken glasses or contact lenses.

Young people aged 16, 17 or 18 and in full time education are also eligible for an NHS optical voucher to help towards to cost of glasses or contact lenses.

NHS community eyecare information at NHS inform

What to expect at See4School pre-school vision screening (video)

A film from NHS inform showing what to expect during the eye test.

Important: Pre-school vision screening

NHS Inform Logo
  • Why is the pre-school orthoptic vision test important?
  • About the test
  • Screening invitation
  • Taking the test
  • What to expect at a See4School eye test
  • What isn’t tested
  • Screening test results
more information at NHS inform about pre-school vision screening

Important: NHS Highland orthoptics service

  • Contact
  • Orthoptics clinics
  • Referral
  • Your appointment
  • What to expect when you visit
  • Patient information
  • Orthoptists make a difference (video)
more information about the orthoptics service at NHS Highland
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Last updated: 26 August 2025