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Skills 4 Pharmacy; Forest Row; On-site; GBP 12,000 - 16,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full training and support

On-the-job learning

Friendly team environment

Career progression within dentistry

Private practice experience

Job summary

Skills 4 Pharmacy in Forest Row, England, is seeking a Trainee Dental Nurse to gain hands-on experience in a private practice. From day one you’ll work with qualified dental professionals, build confidence, learn new skills, and work toward becoming a fully qualified Dental Nurse in a welcoming environment.

This patient-facing role values enthusiasm, reliability and teamwork. You don’t need prior dental experience; GCSEs in Maths and English are required.

Qualifications

• GCSEs Maths and English at required grades.
• No prior dental experience required.
• Training to be provided: Dental Nurse (Integrated) Level 3.

Responsibilities

• Assist dentists and clinicians during a range of dental treatments and procedures.
• Ensure patients feel comfortable, informed, and reassured throughout their visit.
• Prepare treatment rooms and ensure all equipment and materials are ready for use.
• Clean, sterilise, and maintain instruments in line with infection control standards.
• Follow health, safety, and confidentiality policies at all times.
• Support patients with pre and post treatment guidance.
• Accurately update patient records using computer-based systems.
• Help manage appointment flow and support the smooth running of the practice.
• Assist with basic administrative duties as required.

Skills

Positive attitude

Eager to learn

Reliable

Teamwork

Clear communication

Organisational skills

Basic IT skills

Education

GCSEs Maths & English (A-C / 4-9)

Job description

You’ll work closely with qualified dental professionals, gaining hand-on experience across all areas of dental nursing. From day one, you’ll be encouraged to build confidence, develop new skills, and work towards becoming a fully qualified Dental Nurse in a professional and welcoming private practice environment. This is a patient-facing role where enthusiasm, reliability, and a positive attitude are just as important as technical skills. If you enjoy helping others and want a career where no two days are the same, this could be the perfect starting point.

Key Responsibilities

As a Trainee Dental Nurse, you will:

• Assist dentists and clinicians during a range of dental treatments and procedures
• Ensure patients feel comfortable, informed, and reassured throughout their visit
• Prepare treatment rooms and ensure all equipment and materials are ready for use
• Clean, sterilise, and maintain instruments in line with infection control standards
• Follow health, safety, and confidentiality policies at all times
• Support patients with pre and post treatment guidance
• Accurately update patient records using computer-based systems
• Help manage appointment flow and support the smooth running of the practice
• Assist with basic administrative duties as required

What We’re Looking For

We believe the right attitude and mindset are key. You don’t need dental experience, we’re looking for someone who:

• Has a positive, can do approach and is eager to learn
• Is genuinely interested in patient care and personal development
• Is reliable, punctual, and takes pride in being professional
• Enjoys working as part of a team and supporting others
• Communicates clearly and confidently with both patients and colleagues
• Can stay organised and manage multiple tasks in a busy environment
• Has basic IT skills and is comfortable learning new systems

What We Offer

• Full training and support towards a recognised Dental Nurse qualification
• On-the-job learning alongside experienced dental professionals
• A friendly, supportive, and professional team environment
• A great opportunity to build long-term career progression within dentistry
• Valuable experience in a high-quality private practice setting

Once you successfully complete your Dental Nurse Apprenticeship and become a qualified Dental Nurse, there are many exciting career pathways available within dentistry.

Depending on your interests, you could progress into areas such as:

• Dental Radiography with further training
• Practice-based roles such as lead nurse or treatment coordinator
• Further education in dental hygiene, dental therapy, or other healthcare roles

Please note that this vacancy may close earlier than the stated deadline if a suitable candidate is found.

Working Week

Monday- Friday - shifts will be discussed at interview

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.
• 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.