The Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers (WCSM or SMC) is a Livery Company of the City of London founded in 1629 by Royal Charter. Its original function was to ensure high standards of quality and service.

As optical knowledge and organisation has changed over the 374 years since the Company was formed so has the role of the "Spectacle Maker". Originally one person made and supplied spectacles and gave such advice as was available about them - now different people are involved in caring for the visually impaired and all are represented amongst the Liverymen and Freemen of the Spectacle Makers Company, many, despite their title, being ladies.

The Company is held in high regard in the City of London as a Livery Company which is very active and forward-looking and which has produced more than its fair share of Lord Mayors over the years. The Company, as a progressive Livery Company, has probably the largest number of Freemen of any City Company. The connection with the City of London is complete in that the Freemen of the Company (of British nationality) may apply for the Freedom of the City and indeed must become Free of the City before admission to the Livery.

In encouraging you to learn about your job and to become highly skilled in your chosen career the Company has the same objectives which it has followed for over 370 years.

In addition to courses and examinations covering the work of the Optical Technician, the Worshipful Company now offers similar opportunities for Optical Practice Support Staff. Details of both can be found in the pages linked to the Awards & Training index page.