Dental Nurse Apprenticeship

This Dental Nurse Apprenticeship combines practical experience with structured learning, giving you the skills, knowledge and confidence to achieve GDC registration and begin a rewarding career in dentistry.

Duration

24 Months

Delivered

In person

Fee

N/A

Start Date

October 2026

Our Dental Nurse Apprenticeship blends structured learning with valuable workplace experience, giving learners a clear pathway towards becoming a GDC-registered Dental Nurse. The programme develops the essential clinical knowledge, patient-care skills and professional confidence needed to succeed in a modern dental practice.

Apprentices build practical experience in chairside assistance, preparing for dental procedures, decontamination and infection control. They also learn to maintain accurate patient records, create a safe and welcoming environment, and provide consistently high standards of care.

Maria Pemberton

Maria Pemberton is the lead tutor for this course, and brings a wealth of experience in Dental Nursing. Starting her dental career at just 16, she now has almost 40 years experience in Dental Nursing as well as experience as an examiner.

What You'll Study

The apprenticeship prepares learners for the everyday responsibilities of dental nursing, from supporting patients and assisting clinicians to keeping the practice clean, safe and well organised. Training covers dental anatomy, X-rays and oral health advice, alongside practical experience in procedures such as restorative treatments and minor oral surgery. Learners will also develop the confidence to manage medical emergencies, follow effective decontamination procedures and promote positive outcomes for every patient.

Core Modules

Professional Practice within the Dental Setting

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Leading, Managing and Team Working within the Dental Setting

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Communication in the Dental Setting

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Inclusive Practice

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Clinical and Technical Practice - Assessment and Diagnosis of Patients

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Promoting Oral Health

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Health and Well-being - Own and Others in the Team

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Continued Professional Development

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Respond to Risks and Medical Emergencies

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Why You'll Love it

Practical teaching in state-of-the-art facilities

At the Derwen Dental Academy, our purpose-built facility seamlessly connects theoretical knowledge with clinical practice. You'll hone your dental skills in a realistic, safe environment, ensuring you build genuine, hands-on experience for your career.

Delivered by experienced registered dental nurses

Gain insights directly from expert registered dental nurses who excel in both education and clinical care. Our educators holding a variety of post-registration qualifications in areas like radiography, oral health education, special care, fluoride varnish application, and more. Our tutors bring rich, real-world experience to your learning.

Linked to a real life dental practice

The Derwen Dental Academy maintains strong partnerships across the dental sector, including a close relationship with the Wooding Dental Group. Located right next door to their flagship practice, Limewood Dental Care, the Academy ensures you gain diverse, hands-on experience in dynamic clinical settings while receiving continuous support from experienced mentors and academic leads.

Who is this course for?

This course is designed for anyone looking to begin a career as a Dental Nurse, including school leavers, people considering a change of career and those already working in a dental practice who want to gain a recognised qualification. It’s ideal for individuals who enjoy working with people, have an interest in healthcare and want to become a valued member of a dental team.

The apprenticeship leads to a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification and eligibility to register with the GDC, creating opportunities for future progression into areas such as oral health promot

Who is this course for?

This course is designed for anyone looking to begin a career as a Dental Nurse, including school leavers, people considering a change of career and those already working in a dental practice who want to gain a recognised qualification. It’s ideal for individuals who enjoy working with people, have an interest in healthcare and want to become a valued member of a dental team.

The apprenticeship leads to a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification and eligibility to register with the GDC, creating opportunities for future progression into areas such as oral health promot