At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Orthodontic Therapy Training Programme and develop your skills in specialist orthodontics.
- Company: Riverdale Healthcare, a leader in dental care with a focus on professional growth.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, competitive pay during training, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Structured 13-month programme starting September 2026 with travel to various training locations.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in orthodontics and make a real difference in patients' lives.
- Qualifications: GDC registration and relevant dental care experience required.
Opportunity for Orthodontic Therapy Training. We are seeking a dedicated and highly motivated Dental Care Professional to join our Orthodontic Therapy Training Programme, commencing September 2026. This 13-month structured training programme offers an exceptional opportunity for GDC-registered dental care professionals to progress their careers in specialist orthodontics.
Clinical training will take place at these locations:
- Alpha Dental Care, Market Harborough
- Leamington Spa Orthodontics Centre - 21 Waterloo Pl, Royal Leamington Spa CV32 5LA
Candidates must be willing to travel and work across all training locations.
Programme Overview
- Duration: 13 months
- Start Date: September 2026
- Training Provider: Orthodontic Team Training
Training Structure
- Combination of min 30 hours within Alpha Dental, Market Harborough practice under Orthodontic supervision
- Travel to Orthodontic Training Centre for practical hands-on training
- Remote training and study
Entry Requirements
- GCSE English and Maths at Grade C/4 or above (or equivalent) (documentary evidence required at interview)
- Current employment at Riverdale Healthcare as one of the following GDC Registered: Dental Nurse, Dental Hygienist, Dental Therapist, Dental Technician, Clinical Dental Technician
- GDC registration with a minimum of two year’s full-time post-qualification experience
- English language requirement: If English is not your first language, an IELTS score of at least 7.0 overall is required
- Occupational health screening and clearance
- Enhanced DBS clearance
Essential Criteria
- Experience of working within an orthodontic specialist practice and/or with a GDC-registered orthodontic specialist
- Excellent organisational skills and a high level of professionalism
- Strong manual dexterity and exceptional attention to detail
- A clear commitment to learning and ongoing professional development
- Excellent communication skills with a strong command of the English language
Desirable Criteria
- A recognised qualification in orthodontic nursing
- A dental radiography qualification (e.g. NEBDN or equivalent)
- Additional post-qualification or extended-duties certifications relevant to orthodontic practice
- Experience with digital orthodontics, including intraoral scanning and digital workflows
- Evidence of leadership, mentoring, teaching, or supervisory experience
- Demonstrated engagement in CPD beyond GDC minimum requirements
- Experience with clinical governance, audits, safeguarding, or quality improvement initiatives
Remuneration & Career Progression
Pay during training: Current pay. Upon successful completion of the programme and registration on the GDC Orthodontic Therapist register, a pay and service structure review will be undertaken, based on professional progression and competency assessments.
Application & Interview Process
- Application deadline: Thursday 20th August 2026 (late applications may not be considered)
- Interview date: Monday 24th and Tuesday 25th August 2026 (shortlisted candidates must be available on these dates to undertake a remote TEAMS interview)
How to Apply
To apply, please submit a CV and covering letter as a PDF format of both combined. Any further questions - please email.
Reasonable Adjustments
If you are ready to apply but require any additional support or reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process, please contact the recruitment team at your earliest convenience.
Orthodontic Therapy Trainee employer: Riverdale Healthcare
Riverdale Healthcare is an exceptional employer, offering Associate Dentists at Alpha Dental Care in Gateshead a vibrant and supportive work culture that prioritises professional development and patient care. With access to advanced technology, mentoring opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package including NHS pension and family leave, employees can thrive in a modern practice while enjoying the unique advantages of working within a diverse and passionate team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Orthodontic Therapy Trainee
✨Tap into University Networks
If you're on the hunt for a trainee position in dentistry, make sure you're getting involved with your university’s dental society or student associations. They often host events and have connections with local practices that are looking for trainees. Plus, it's a great way to meet seasoned pros who can give you a leg up.
✨Shadow and Gain Experience
Don’t underestimate the power of getting some hands-on experience. Reach out to local clinics or dental practices to see if you can shadow a dentist or even assist with basic tasks. This not only gives you practical insights but also helps you build relationships that could lead to a trainee role at some point.
✨Utilise Social Media Wisely
Follow dental professionals and organisations on platforms like Instagram or LinkedIn. Engage with their content and share your own experiences or learning journeys. You never know who might notice you and reach out with trainee opportunities!
✨Attend Local Dental Events
Keep an eye on local dental conventions and workshops. These events are goldmines for networking and learning about the field. They often feature practices looking to recruit trainees, so make sure you're out there meeting people and handing out your details. We’d even recommend applying through our website once you find a clinic you want to work with!
We think you need these skills to ace Orthodontic Therapy Trainee
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Dentistry:In your cover letter, don’t hold back on expressing why you’re passionate about dentistry. Talk about what sparked your interest, whether it’s helping people achieve a healthy smile, or your fascination with oral health. This enthusiasm can really set you apart from other applicants!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Even if you haven't worked in a dental practice yet, include any relevant experience you have—like volunteer work or shadowing dentists. If you've worked in customer service or health-related fields, mention those skills too! They show you're ready to interact with and comfort patients.
Get Specific with Your CV:When crafting your CV, make sure to list any relevant academic achievements, certifications, or coursework related to dental health. If you've taken any extra training or workshops, add those in. A clear and tailored CV helps us understand your journey in dentistry!
Let Your Personality Shine:As a trainee, we want to see the real you! Use your cover letter to share your personality and showcase your soft skills. Being a dentist is not just about knowing procedures; it’s also about building rapport with patients. Let us see how you connect with people and handle challenges!
How to prepare for a job interview at Riverdale Healthcare
✨Brush Up on Clinical Skills
You’ll likely face questions about your basic clinical skills – practice makes perfect! Be ready to discuss specific procedures you've learned, ideally with examples from your training. Think about how you’ve applied these skills in a practical setting, as this can help showcase your readiness for a trainee role.
✨Know Your Tools
Familiarise yourself with the dental tools you’ve been learning about. You might be asked to describe their uses or to even demonstrate knowledge about specific techniques. Use this opportunity to highlight any hands-on experience you’ve had during your training at Riverdale Healthcare.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm for Learning
As a trainee, your eagerness to learn is crucial! Be prepared to talk about what excites you about the field of dentistry. Share any recent trends or developments you’re following, as it shows you’re engaged and committed to your growth, particularly important at a place like Riverdale Healthcare.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
You might get asked how you've handled stress or difficult situations—this is important in the fast-paced dental environment! Think of examples that highlight your teamwork, problem-solving skills, and ability to cope in high-pressure scenarios. This will help the interviewers see you as a capable addition to their team!
