Apprentice Dental Nurse (Level 3)

As a Dental Nurse Apprentice, you will begin by observing and learning essential procedures under the guidance of the Lead Dental Nurse, progressing to hands-on tasks as your skills and confidence grow. Your day to day duties will include:

Working towards the completion of your regulated, certified Dental Nurse qualification. Attending all scheduled online college sessions to support your academic progress. Maintaining cleanliness, tidiness, and sterilisation of clinical areas, equipment, and instruments in line with health & safety and infection control policies. Operating dental equipment safely and correctly, ensuring regular maintenance and reporting any issues. Providing chairside assistance to dentists, ensuring instruments and materials are ready for procedures. You will work with patients every day, so it's important that you can help them feel welcome and reassure those who may be nervous, making their visit as comfortable as possible. Accurately updating patient records and handling materials in line with safety guidelines (including COSHH and PPE regulations). Developing and filing radiographs, including changing radiographic solutions as required. Completing and tracking lab request forms and managing items sent to or received from dental labs. Managing stock levels, requesting new supplies when needed, and ensuring all records are securely stored. Communicating with reception staff to support efficient patient journeys and record-keeping. Taking part in practice meetings and undertaking general administrative or reception duties as needed. Participating in all required training and development opportunities. Upholding the professional standards and code of conduct of the dental practice.

Training:

On a Level 3 Dental Nurse Apprenticeship

You will work towards achieving the Level 3 Dental Nurse Apprenticeship Standard, a qualification approved by the General Dental Council (GDC) for entry to the professional register as a Dental Nurse.

Knowledge and Skills Gained:

Understanding of dental anatomy, infection control, oral health promotion, and clinical procedures Practical experience providing chairside support, preparing equipment, and assisting with patient care Competence in record-keeping, handling materials, and following health and safety regulations (e.g., PPE, COSHH, cross-infection control) Communication skills for interacting effectively with patients and the dental team
 

On-the-Job and Off-the-Job Training:

80% on-the-job: Hands-on experience in the dental practice 20% off-the-job: Paid study time, which combines online learning one day a week with hands-on clinical training in our in-house dental suite at Matthew Boulton College

Training Outcome:

Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, there is the potential to progress into a full-time Dental Nurse role within the practice.

Further development opportunities to progress into roles such as:

Senior Dental Nurse Oral Health Educator Dental Radiographer Practice Manager

Further study in Dental Hygiene, Therapy, or other healthcare fields

Employer Description:
At the Great Barr Dental Practice we believe that everyone should enjoy excellent oral health. The team want all patients to experience the remarkable benefits to health and well-being that first class dental care can deliver. The team also wants every patient to enjoy a welcoming environment which combines friendly, personal service with the professional expertise of a highly accomplished dental practice.

Working Hours :
Days: Monday to Friday - Hours to be confirmed BREAKS: 1 hour HOLIDAY: Statutory SICK PAY: Statutory

Skills:
Communication skills,Attention to detail,Organisation skills,Customer care skills,Administrative skills,Team working,Initiative,Patience