Introduction
The apprenticeship in dental nursing is an 18‑month government‑funded course by City & Guilds, a Level 3 Extended Diploma. Alongside your learning your job role within the practise will entail assisting dentists, sterilising and preparing equipment, reception duties and supporting patient experience.
About the Employer
An inclusive dental practice offering mixed NHS and private treatments, focused on developing the next generation of dental nurses.
What You’ll Do
This role will provide efficient and reliable chairside support to clinicians while ensuring high standards of patient care, confidentiality and GDPR compliance.
- Welcoming patients and assisting with appointment scheduling
- Handling basic patient enquiries professionally and appropriately
- Preparing surgeries, sterilising instruments, and maintaining infection control to CQC standards
- Assisting clinicians during treatments and accurately updating patient records in line with GDPR
- Supporting patients’ comfort, reassurance and overall dental experience
- Monitoring and managing stock, equipment and surgery readiness
- Maintaining clean, safe and fully equipped clinical areas
- Upholding patient privacy, dignity and confidentiality at all times
- Collaborating with dentists and the wider team to deliver safe, efficient and high‑quality care
Training Outcome
A career in dental nursing can grow in many rewarding directions. With experience, you could progress into roles such as Senior Dental Nurse, Lead Nurse, Treatment Coordinator or Practice Manager. Further training could lead to positions as Dental Hygienist or Dental Therapist, delivering preventative, restorative and routine treatments to patients. You could also specialise as an Orthodontic Therapist, working with dental professionals to improve the alignment and appearance of patients’ teeth. The dental sector offers clear progression routes, recognised qualifications and ongoing professional development to support your long‑term career goals.
Skills Required
- Administrative skills
- Analytical skills
- Attention to detail
- Customer care skills
- Initiative
- IT skills
- Logical thinking
- Non‑judgemental attitude
- Number skills
- Organisational skills
- Patience
- Physical fitness
- Presentation skills
- Problem solving skills
- Teamworking
- Communication skills
Qualifications
- Desired – GCSE Maths (grade 4 or above)
- Desired – GCSE English (grade 4 or above)
Course Information
- Course: Dental nurse (Level 3)
- Level: 3
- Route: Health and Science
- Apprenticeship Level: Advanced
- Working Arrangements: Working Week – Monday to Friday 9am–5pm
- Expected Duration: 1 year 6 months
- Training Provider: TEMP DENT DENTAL AGENCY LIMITED
Apprentice Dental Nurse - Merseyside in St Helens employer: Windle House Dental
Windle House Dental is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its apprentices. With a supportive work culture, you will gain hands-on experience in dental nursing while benefiting from a structured training programme through City & Guilds. The practice offers a collaborative environment where you can thrive, ensuring high standards of patient care and infection control, all while paving the way for future career advancement within the dental field.
