Dental Nurse Apprenticeship

skills4group; Nottingham; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading apprenticeship provider in the UK offers a Dental Nursing apprenticeship designed for individuals looking to enter the healthcare field. As an apprentice, you will assist dentists with patient care and manage a clean clinical environment while you gain valuable skills and qualifications. Ideal candidates should have GCSEs in Maths and English and possess strong communication and organizational abilities. This program provides on-the-job training and theoretical learning, preparing you for a fulfilling career in dental nursing.

Qualifications

• Must have GCSEs at A-C or 4-9 in Maths and English.
• A keen interest in the dental nurse profession.
• Effective communication skills for patient care and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Assist dentists with treatments and patient care.
• Set up and clean surgeries, sterilise instruments.
• Maintain and update patient records.

Skills

Interest in dental nurse profession

Tact and discretion

Clear communication skills

Strong interpersonal skills

Teamwork abilities

Organizational skills

Ability to multi-task

Calm demeanour

Composure under pressure

Education

GCSEs at A-C or 4-9 in Maths and English

Job description

• Sector: Health, Public Services and Care
• Ref: VAC-03940
• Application Deadline Date: 30/01/2026
• Start Date: 04/02/2026
• Working Week: Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 5.00pm

About the course

Brief Description

Do you want to work as a registered professional who assists dentists with various tasks, such as supporting patient care, preparing instruments, maintaining a clean clinical environment, and ensuring patients feel comfortable during procedures? If so, then this Dental Nursing apprenticeship is for you!

Qualifications Required

Potential apprentices must have GCSEs at A-C or 4-9 or equivalent, in Maths and English.

Personal Qualities

• Calm
• Compassionate
• Confident
• Caring
• Thirst for Knowledge

Skills Required

• A keen interest in the dental nurse profession
• Tact and discretion for handling confidential patient information responsibly.
• Clear and effective communication skills, essential for patient care and teamwork.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build rapport with patients.
• Collaborative teamwork abilities to work seamlessly with colleagues.
• Exceptional organisational and time management skills to handle priorities effectively.
• Ability to multi-task, managing multiple responsibilities efficiently.
• Calm demeanour in fast‑paced environments, maintaining focus and professionalism.
• Ability to remain composed under pressure, managing high‑stress situations effectively.

Training to be Provided

Dental Nurse (Integrated) Level 3

Future Prospects

Advancing Within Dental Nursing:

• Lead Dental Nurse: Take on more responsibilities by managing other dental nurses and overseeing practice operations.
• Practice Manager: Move into a management role, handling the day‑to‑day running of the dental practice.

Specialisation Opportunities:

• Orthodontic Nursing: Assist in orthodontic treatments, gaining expertise in appliances and aligners.

Moving Into Clinical Roles:

• Dental Hygienist or Therapist: With further qualifications, progress into roles focused on providing oral hygiene treatments or minor dental procedures.
• Extended Duties Dental Nurse: Gain additional skills such as fluoride application, impression taking, or assisting in sedation procedures.

Transition to Education or Research:

• Trainer or Assessor: Use your experience to teach and assess trainee dental nurses.
• Dental Researcher: Contribute to advancements in dentistry by working in research roles.

Related Healthcare Careers:

• Specialist Healthcare Settings: Work in maxillofacial units, hospitals, or with oral surgeons.
• Broader Healthcare Roles: Transition into other areas of healthcare, leveraging transferable skills.

Extended Skills:

• Dental Radiography: Train to take radiographs, an essential skill in modern dental practices.
• Oral Health Promotion: Work with patients and communities to educate on oral hygiene and preventative care.

Join our Dental Nurse Apprenticeship and gain the skills, knowledge, and qualifications you need for a successful career in dental nursing. With ongoing support and hands‑on training, you’ll be ready to make a real difference in patient care.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Assisting dentists with treatments, from routine check‑ups to specialist procedures.
• Providing patients with high‑quality care and support.
• Setting up and cleaning surgeries, sterilising instruments, and preparing materials for treatments.
• Updating patient records and maintaining essential equipment.
• Following practice policies and procedures to ensure a safe, efficient environment.

How It Works

• Practical Training: Learn on the job with the support of your dental practice, mastering the skills required for daily responsibilities.
• Theoretical Training: Study the science and principles of dental nursing through online learning, guided by Skills4Dental Training. Working towards a Dental nurse (GDC 2023) (Level 3) qualification.
• Off‑the‑Job Learning: Complete dedicated training during paid working hours to enhance your skills.

This apprenticeship is your pathway to a rewarding career in healthcare, offering hands‑on experience, paid learning, and nationally recognised qualifications. Start building your future in dental nursing today!