Job Description

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 across three North East orthodontic sites:


Heaton Rake Lane (North Tyneside) Gateshead

Candidates must be willing to travel and work across all training locations.

Programme Overview

Duration: 13 months Start Date: September 2026 Training Provider: University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)

Training Structure

A five-week intensive training block at UCLan (September/October 2026) Ongoing academic and practical training, requiring attendance at UCLan two days per month Following the initial training block, the trainee will work a minimum of four days per week in practice, under the supervision of orthodontic specialists

Entry Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:


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: + Dental Nurse
+ Dental Hygienist
+ Dental Therapist
+ Dental Technician
+ Clinical Dental Technician
GDC registration with a minimum of one 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

Applicants must demonstrate:


? 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: To be confirmed*
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: 14 January 2026 (late applications may not be considered) Interview date: Tuesday 3 February 2026
(shortlisted candidates must be available on this date)
Final interview: Successful applicants will undertake a secondary selection process with UCLaN

How to Apply

To apply, please submit a CV and covering letter as a PDF format of both combined.

Important:

If successful at interview, enrolment onto the training programme is subject to a final interview with the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan).


Any further questions- please email michelle.nicholson@riverdalehealthcare.com