Apprentice Dental Nurse - Southampton

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 & preparing equipment, reception duties and supporting patient experience.

About the Employer

An inclusive dental practice offering 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. 

Day-to-day Dental Nurse duties may include:  

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. With further training, you could develop into a 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

• Communication skills
• IT skills
• Attention to detail
• Organisation skills
• Customer care skills
• Problem solving skills
• Presentation skills
• Administrative skills
• Number skills
• Analytical skills
• Logical
• Team working
• Initiative
• Non judgemental
• Patience
• Physical fitness

Qualifications

• Desired - GCSE - English - 4
• Desired - GCSE - Maths - 4

Course Information

Course: Dental nurse (level 3)

Level: 3

Route: Health and science

Apprenticeship Level: Advanced

Working Arrangements

Working Week: Monday 8.00am-5.30pm Tuesday 8.00am-4.30pm Wednesday 8.00am-5.30pm Thursday 8.00am-5.30pm Friday 8.00am-4.30pm

Expected Duration: 1 Year 6 Months

Training Provider: TEMP DENT DENTAL AGENCY LIMITED