Scottish Dental Care has introduced ‘Pathways’, an education programme that sets a new standard as the most comprehensive professional development initiative for early-career dentists in the country.
The 16-module programme, spearheaded by John McQueen, clinical director of education and Philip Friel, co-founder and director of dentistry at Scottish Dental Care, has been designed to help bridge the gap between university training and independent practice, offering young dentists structured guidance as they embark on their careers.
The Pathways programme addresses the critical need for dental talent retention in Scotland by focusing specifically on early-career dentists in their first five years of professional practice.
John said, “The transition from a structured educational based environment through Vocational Training to associate, developing your practice and managing your career, can feel like being thrown into the deep end, with young dentists left to find their own way.
“Pathways is what I wish I had when I finished my university training. You don’t know what you don’t know - which is what inspired us to develop this training programme.
“Pathways will provide an unprecedented level of comprehensive and hands-on training, aimed at empowering emerging dentists to excel in their careers. There's no pressure to specialise or pick one discipline with this programme – this is an opportunity to develop skills and explore practices that you may not otherwise be exposed to.”
Pathways offers a unique blend of hands-on and theoretical training, providing 16 dedicated training days over two years.
The curriculum covers all key areas of dentistry, including treatment planning, oral surgery, implants, prosthodontics, and endodontics, with modules led by Scottish Dental Care Clinical leadership, as well as other practitioners prominent in their field. In addition, participants will have opportunities to shadow experienced clinicians and observe real cases in clinic.
John added, “We’ve structured Pathways to push the envelope beyond what’s taught at university. It’s not just about developing technical skills, but also about preparing dentists for the personal, physical, and mental challenges of the profession. By including workshops on mental wellbeing and financial planning, we’re helping young dentists build holistic careers.”
Philip said, "We believe in continuous education and development, offering learning opportunities for associates at every stage of their career. The programme delivers an exceptional professional development pathway, offering extensive training courses and opportunities at a significantly subsidised cost.
“We want to set a new standard for professional growth and career satisfaction in the dental industry.”
The course starts in February 2025 and training days will be held at Scottish Dental Care’s Glasgow central office. Open to all early-career dentists, there are 14 spaces available.
For more information visit www.scottishdentalcare.co.uk/careers/education