What You Will Study

Eleven mandatory units:

  • Preparing for professional practice in dental nursing
  • The impact of health and safety legislation on working practices in the dental setting
  • Prevention and control of infection in the dental setting
  • Dental and regional anatomy, oral health assessments and treatment planning
  • Recognising and supporting actions during first aid and medical emergencies
  • The safe use of ionising radiation to produce quality radiographic images
  • Provide support for the control of periodontal disease and caries, and the restoration of cavities
  • Provide support during the stages of prosthetic treatments
  • Provide support during the stages of endodontic procedures
  • Provide support during extractions and minor oral surgery
  • Scientific and practical information to support the patient’s oral and physical health

Maths and English
These are key elements of apprenticeship programmes and if you do not already have a GCSE at Grade 4/ Level 2 in these subjects you will be required to study Functional Skills at the appropriate levels prior to starting the course.

Skills in Maths and English will support your apprenticeship programme, assisting you with assignment writing, research, job applications, presentations, managing your own finances and interpretation of data, to mention just a few. They will also help you in the future. Most employers are looking for ability in these areas and the majority of university courses require you to have Maths and English GCSEs Grade (9-4). Therefore, the development of Maths and English is so important, whatever your field of study.

  • Attendance Expectations

    You will attend via Microsoft Teams classrooms for taught theory sessions for one day each week during term time, followed by self study. One session per month will be taught in person by your tutor in college.

  • How You Will Be Assessed

    When you start the course, you will be allocated an assessor who will carry out regular contact with you and your practice. You will be observed by your assessor on at least two occasions at your practice, during surgery hours. Your assessor will also guide and support you in compiling your portfolio of evidence that you are reaching the required standards.

  • Entry Requirements

    Must be employed as a dental nurse.

    AND

    Maths and English GCSEs at Grade 4.

    Maths and English are key elements of apprenticeship programmes and if you do not already have a GCSE at Grade 4/ Level 2 in these subjects you will be required to study Functional Skills at the appropriate levels.

    Skills in Maths and English will support your apprenticeship programme, assisting you with assignment writing, research, job applications, presentations, managing your own finances and interpretation of data, to mention just a few. They will also help you in the future. Most employers are looking for ability in these areas and the majority of university courses require you to have Maths and English GCSEs at Grade 9-4. Therefore, the development of Maths and English is so important, whatever your field of study.

  • Fee Information

    Please contact the Apprenticeship Recruitment Team on 01924 789469 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  • Further Study

    Wakefield College offers various courses which can be used as Continuing Professional Development for dental care professionals.