The Dental Care Assistant course is the first of its kind in East Scotland and offers an introductory course at a level suited to a wide range of abilities and backgrounds. Previously, applicants who were interested in working in the dental care profession would have to be turned away from the existing courses due to a lack of experience or qualifications. The new course gives them a route into further study and valuable experience for the workplace.
Tom MacGregor, curriculum manager for Health and Veterinary at Edinburgh College, said: “The college sector is committed to providing opportunities for learners across all ages, backgrounds and academic abilities. This course fits perfectly with our vision and the current cohort of learners is now ready for work experience in dental practices across Edinburgh and the Lothians”.
Students on the Dental Care Assistant course learn about the importance of caring for their own teeth, an awareness of the dental environment, the instruments and equipment used and the importance of effective infection control. The programme is designed to be an excellent foundation for them to progress onto to the college’s SVQ Level 3 in Dental Nursing, National Diploma in Dental Nursing or further study whilst in practice.
There are no formal entry requirements but applicants are expected to be well presented with an interest in oral health and good interpersonal skills.
Tom said: “Many of our dental care assistant students joined the course in August with a lack of confidence and found teamwork and interacting with others a challenge. This course has developed them into confident individuals who can make positive contributions to their team as well as working well independently. The dental nursing team and I are very pleased with their progress; they now show self belief, have more job ready skills and feel comfortable presenting themselves and their work”.
The students wear smart raspberry coloured scrubs in college, and are going out to engage with other college students and college staff to offer simple oral health messages in the wider college community. They are currently working on an awareness project to highlight the dangers of hidden sugar found in every day drinks and foods.
Applications are open now for the Dental Care Assistant course, which starts in January and runs for 18 weeks. Visit www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk/january2016, call 0131 660 1010 or email courseinfo@edinburghcollege.ac.uk for help to make an application.