DENTAL NURSING Level 3 Diploma

Level 3
Further Education
Newry Campus
NEBDN

Overview

The qualification is regulated by Ofqual in England, and CCEA in Northern Ireland and covers all the learning outcomes in the GDC Safe Practitioner Framework for Dental Nurses,’ making it a secure option for trainee dental nurses wanting to qualify in this field. Learners wishing to take the qualification must be working with an NEBDN training provider.

This part-time course offers flexibility for those who wish to pursue a career in dental nursing while working in a dental practice at the same time.

Throughout the programme, students will acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to provide high-quality support to dental practitioners and deliver exceptional patient care. They will learn about dental anatomy, oral health, and common dental procedures, as well as infection control, radiography, and medical emergencies within a dental setting.

The course covers a wide range of topics, including chairside assistance, patient management, dental materials, and oral health promotion. Students will also gain an understanding of legal and ethical considerations, professionalism, and effective communication skills necessary for working in a dental practice.

Please Note: Blended e-portfolio starts at 3pm. Class starts at 6pm.

Applicants must have attained GCSE English and Maths and at least one Science subject at grade C or above. These certificates must be presented at the time of enrolment with signed confirmation and a NEBDN Service Level Agreement from your employer.
Applicants must also be working within a general dental practice throughout the duration of the course. It is preferable that applicants have been employed for at least 6 months.

The knowledge, skills and behaviours the trainee dental nurse will gain during this qualification are described within the 10 units of the qualification which cover areas such as:

Clinical Practice
Communication
Responding to Medical Emergencies
Teamwork
Professional Development

The qualification is assessed by:

An internally assessed electronic portfolio of evidence which allows learners to showcase their knowledge, skills and behaviours gained in a dental setting
An externally set and graded online knowledge test made up of multiple choice questions
An online professional discussion with an NEBDN examiner

The qualification attracts UCAS points for those wishing to progress to higher education and progression in the dental sector is possible through NEBDN’s Specialised Post-Registration qualifications which can be accessed upon completion.

The National Diploma is the standard achieved by the majority of dental nurses who qualify in this country. This has replaced the National Certificate Qualification. Successful candidates are eligible to apply for registration on the Voluntary National Register of Dental Nurses, held by the Dental Nurses Standards and Training Advisory Board (DN STAB) under the auspices of the General Dental Council (GDC).