Dental Nurse Apprenticeship

Rodericks Dental Limited; Wallingford; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A dental practice in the UK is offering an 18-month apprenticeship in dental nursing, leading to a City & Guilds Level 3 Extended Diploma. Responsibilities include assisting dentists, managing reception duties, and ensuring patient care. Candidates should have strong communication skills and relevant qualifications such as GCSEs in English and Maths. This role offers a pathway for further career development in dental healthcare.

Qualifications

• Completion of Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing is required.
• Functional skills in English and Maths at Level 2 or equivalent are needed.
• GCSEs in English and Maths at Grade 4 or above are essential.

Responsibilities

• Assist the dentist with chair-side support and sterilise equipment.
• Manage reception duties and welcome patients.
• Maintain accurate patient records and manage dental radiographs.
• Support patients' comfort through effective communication.
• Perform infection control and maintain a clean environment.
• Assist with diagnostic procedures and patient referrals.

Skills

Strong communication and customer-care skills

Attention to detail

Organisation and time-management

Team-working

Initiative

Patience

Cultural competence

Education

Level 3 apprenticeship accredited by City & Guilds

Functional Skills English & Maths Level 2 or equivalent

GCSE in English and Maths (Grade 4 or above)

Job description

The apprenticeship in dental nursing is an 18‑month government funded course – City & Guilds Level 3 Extended Diploma in Dental Nursing.

Responsibilities

• Assist the dentist with chair‑side support, sterilising equipment and preparing materials for treatment.
• Admit and welcome patients, manage reception duties, answer the phone, take payments and book appointments.
• Maintain accurate patient records, record oral‑health assessments and dental charting, and manage dental radiographs and images.
• Support patients’ comfort and anxiety management through communication and behavioural techniques.
• Perform infection control and de‑contamination procedures, maintain a clean clinical environment.
• Assist with special investigations, diagnostic procedures and orthodontic assessment where required.
• Provide preventive advice, instruction and education to patients to promote oral health.
• Collaborate with the dental team, identify medical emergencies, and manage patient referrals.
• Communicate effectively with patients (including those with language barriers) and between healthcare professionals.
• Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with legal and professional standards.

Qualifications & Prerequisites

• Level 3 apprenticeship accredited by City & Guilds, awarded upon completion of the Diploma in Dental Nursing.
• Functional Skills English & Maths Level 2 or equivalent.
• GCSE in English and Maths (Grade 4 or above).
• Experience in a health or dental setting is an advantage but not required.

Key Skills

• Strong communication and customer‑care skills.
• Attention to detail, organisation and time‑management.
• Team‑working, initiative and non‑judgemental attitude.
• Patience and cultural competence.

Career Path

With further training you could progress to roles such as team leader, dental practice manager, dental therapist, dental hygienist, or orthodontic therapist.