Job Description

Dental Nurse Apprentice

Reports To: Practice Manager / Lead Dental Nurse / Supervising Dentist
Location: Manchester
Training Provider: Smart Dental Academy - Heald Green
Salary: 283.13 per week (Apprenticeship rate), 7.55 per hour
Hours: Full-time, 30-40 hours per week
Duration: 15-18 months, followed by End Point Assessment (EPA)
Qualification: Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing (City & Guilds 5238-33) and Dental Nurse Apprenticeship Standard

About Smart Dental Academy

Smart Dental Academy is an independent training provider specialising in Dental Nurse Apprenticeships across the Northwest of England, with academies based in 5 locations.

We deliver high-quality, regulated dental nurse training that combines face to face classroom-based learning, workplace experience, and mentorship to help learners achieve their Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing and register with the General Dental Council (GDC) upon completion.

This opportunity is for a place at Smart Dental Academy, not a direct job with a dental practice. Once accepted onto the programme, our team will support you in finding a suitable dental practice placement to complete your apprenticeship.

Main Duties and Learning Areas

Clinical Support (once placed in practice)

Assist the dentist and wider dental team during a range of clinical procedures. Prepare, set up, and maintain the surgery and instruments. Mix and handle dental materials in line with practice protocols. Anticipate the needs of clinicians and patients during treatment.
Infection Prevention & Control

Learn to follow HTM 01-05 and infection control procedures. Carry out safe decontamination and sterilisation of instruments. Maintain clinical areas in compliance with health and safety standards.
Patient Care

Welcome and reassure patients throughout their visit. Provide information and support within your level of competence. Always maintain patient confidentiality and professionalism.
Health & Safety and Governance

Follow all GDC Standards for the Dental Team. Understand and comply with safeguarding, data protection, and confidentiality procedures. Report incidents or hazards appropriately.
Administration and Record Keeping

Accurately record patient notes and charting under supervision. Assist with managing stock and maintaining clinical supplies. Support practice audits and general administrative duties where required
Training and Development

You will attend Smart Dental Academy one day per week for structured off-the-job learning, covering theory and practical training.

During your apprenticeship, you will:

Complete the Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing (City & Guilds 5238-33). Build a portfolio of evidence, demonstrating your knowledge, skills, and behaviours. Participate in regular progress reviews and feedback sessions. Prepare for and complete the End Point Assessment (EPA).
Once qualified, you'll be eligible to register with the General Dental Council (GDC) as a Dental Nurse and may progress into roles such as:

Lead Dental Nurse Oral Health Educator Practice Manager Dental Hygienist or Therapist (with further study)
Skills and Personal Qualities

Essential:

A genuine interest in healthcare and patient care. Hardworking, reliable, and professional attitude. Excellent communication and teamwork skills. Ability to follow instructions and work accurately. Commitment to completing the full apprenticeship programme.
Desirable:

Previous customer service or healthcare experience. Understanding of confidentiality and professional behaviour.
Entry Requirements

GCSE Grade 4 (C) or above in English and Maths (or equivalent). Willingness to complete Functional Skills Level 2 if not already achieved. DBS clearance and Hepatitis B vaccination (required once placed in a practice). Ability to travel to the academy weekly and to a dental practice for work placement.
Working Hours

Full-time: 30-40 hours per week (including one study day at the academy in Heald Green). Some flexibility may be required to support evening or weekend clinics once placed in a practice.
Expected Outcomes

Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing (City & Guilds 5238-33). Completion of the Dental Nurse Apprenticeship Standard. Eligibility to register with the General Dental Council (GDC). Opportunity to progress into senior or specialist dental nursing roles.
Benefits

Comprehensive training and guidance throughout your apprenticeship. Support in securing a suitable dental practice placement. Earn while you learn once employment begins. Dedicated tutor and assessor support. Clear career progression within dentistry.
Smart Dental Academy - Shaping the Next Generation of Dental Professionals

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 283.13 per week

Work Location: In person