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Dental Nurse – Level 3 Apprenticeship

Course Overview

Course Type:

Apprenticeship

Available at:

Available at Eastleigh tagEastleigh

Course Area:

Health & Science incl Sport

Course Duration:

18-24 Months

Available at:

Available at Eastleigh tagEastleigh

The Course in Detail

Are you organised, professional and passionate about working with people? You could make a difference in a career as a Dental Nurse.

Dental Nurses provide invaluable chair side support to dental professionals. In your apprenticeship, you will prepare instruments, materials and medicaments for dental procedures, mix materials, sterilise instruments, keep records, note dictation, carry out stock control and support patient care.

With the support of your employer and college classes, you will ensure you maintain high standards of cleanliness and infection control. You will also need strong communication skills to convey information to your team and to ensure patients feel safe and comfortable throughout their visit.

This apprenticeship standard covers the core skills, knowledge and behaviours to demonstrate competency of a Dental Nurse and covers key requirements to include:

  • Monitor, support and reassure patients throughout all aspects of their treatment, ensuring patient-centred care
  • Select and prepare the correct equipment, instruments and materials
  • Carry out infection control procedures
  • Mix, handle, store and dispose of materials in line with manufacturers recommendations
  • Create and update accurate and current patient records, including social, medical and dental history, storing and archiving them securely and in line with legislation
  • Deliver appropriate and current evidence-based oral and general health advice

You will develop your skills, knowledge and behaviours through on and off-the-job training and are expected to attend College on a day release basis.

Entry Requirements & Progression

What You'll Need

You will need to have relevant employment, and entry is subject to interview and assessment.

GCSE English and maths grade 4/C or above (or Level 2 functional skills) is required.

This Could Lead to

On successful completion of this apprenticeship you will be able to register with the General Dental Council as a qualified Dental Nurse.

There are many progression routes open for Dental Nurses, including specialisations, further study, or progressing to another role such as Practice Manager.

Assessment

Your progress will be continuously monitored and supported by a Professional Trainer.

Depending on the standard, we assess your competence through various methods, such as practical exams, assignments, interviews, project work, presentations or observations and we will also evaluate your portfolio of evidence, which documents your learning and progress throughout your apprenticeship with us.

The apprenticeship end-point assessment is the final evaluation stage of your apprenticeship programme. It's designed to determine whether you have achieved the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required to meet the apprenticeship standard and perform the job role independently.

Successful completion of the end-point assessment is required to receive certification.

Availability & Enrolment

College Life & Student Support Services

College is not just about your course – it’s an opportunity to have fun, meet new people and explore your interests! You can socialise with friends in the café and comfy seating areas, join a club or sports team or attend exciting events around the college. Many of our enrichment opportunities are also great on your CV or UCAS application to demonstrate your commitment and enthusiasm outside of your studies.

Your time at college can also be affected by life or health difficulties, and it’s okay to need support. Our specialist teams are here every day to listen and give advice, whether it’s about career planning, financial support, mental health, or something else. And if you have a long-term support need or medical condition, we’ll work with you on personalised learning support to help you achieve your full potential.

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