The dental technology centre will launch a range of new courses and will include state-of-the-art resources such as a decontamination room, processing and casting labs, as well as three dedicated specialist laboratories with 60 workstations. All labs will be equipped with the latest industry-standard equipment.
Patients’ willingness to spend on cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry in order to gain the perfect smile is driving a significant shift towards consumerism and retail; this is energising the dental industry’s growth and will potentially transform the whole sector increasing competitiveness and delivering keener pricing and higher quality. For candidates who pass a dexterity test and interview, the new Dental Centre will offer students a 21st century learning environment with digital classrooms for CAD CAM and 3D printing; benefitting from dedicated learning zones with interactive touch screen boards and use of a large conference space for external and internal talks and demonstrations.
In addition to this, from May this year, dental laboratory owners can benefit from government funding and the Higher Apprenticeship for Dental Technology will be supported by a more simplified funding model. The government will subsidise 90 per cent of the funding for a 10 per cent contribution from employers. This means that employers will be required to pay £600 a year for the three-year course; dental laboratories, technicians and supply companies will therefore also benefit from the new centre.
Robert Biggs, head of the Centre of Dental Sciences at the University of Bolton,said,“The Barnet and Southgate College partnership will deliver much needed support for dental employers and educators in the region. The range and speciality of courses focuses on niche skills and training, which is long overdue in the dental technology sector. Together we aim to provide the most advanced, employment-focused dental education in the UK for dental care professionals.
The higher apprenticeship for dental technicians is designed to meet the learning outcomes of the General Dental Council (GDC) and will enable successful apprentices to begin the process of validation, leading towards registration as a dental care professional (DCP).”
David Byrne, principal of Barnet and Southgate College, said, “The BSC Centre of Dental Sciences will open its doors within the newly refurbished Southgate Campus in September 2017; the state-of-the-art training centre moves away from the messy artisan craft of dental manufacturing to the cleaner tech-driven world of CAD design and 3D printing. We’re extremely proud to be leading on this unique project which will change technical education within the dental industry in London, bringing it firmly into the 21st century and beyond.”
New courses for 2017:
The aim of the range of courses is to give students substantial practical development using duplicated patient cases and models – gone are the days of using perfect impressions for students. This will develop critical thinking and problem solving skills for graduates completing the courses. The college is determined to improve the quality of new dental technicians to meet the needs of employers. Students will be appointed their own experienced tutors who work in the industry and are dedicated to passing on the latest techniques and ideas.
As a newcomer to the industry, 16-18-year-olds can enrol on the Technical Certificate in Working in Dental Settings (Level 2) which provides a perfect grounding to explore the industry and decide which direction is best for them. The Diploma or Advanced Apprenticeship in Dental Nursing (Level 3) offer a voluntary or work-based learning option for those aged 16 and over who are interested in direct chairside work and support during a range of dental treatments.
The BTEC Extended Diploma in Dental Technology (Level 3) is designed for those who wish to work as a dental technician. The course leads to General Dental Council recognition, qualifying you to work in the dental technology industry. Students may progress to find work in private and commercial laboratories or NHS hospitals and universities. The Advanced Apprenticeship in Dental Laboratory Assistant (Level 3) is designed for those intending to work as dental laboratory assistants. The programme will enable students to develop basic competency in core laboratory skills before focusing on specific areas of employment and is designed to be the initial stage leading to the role.
The Trailblazer Apprenticeship in Dental Practice Management (Level 4) has been designed for those that have an interest in the dental industries but see themselves in a management role. It is in effect an institute of leadership and management qualification that is bespoke to the dental industry. Progression into dental technology can be either work-based in the form of a Higher Apprenticeship – Dental Technician (Level 5) or classroom-based on a Foundation Degree in Dental Technology, which leads onto a top up BSc (Hons) in year four. Alternatively, students can enrol directly on to the BSc (Hons) in Dental Technology.
Case study: Leigh’s story
Leigh has been working as a dental technician for 11 years and admits she hadn't planned to become one. “It was really an accident. The A level graphic design course she was on moved to another college, making it impossible to commute. At that time a family friend heard of a vacancy for an apprentice in a local dental laboratory and she applied. Leigh worked at the lab and studied at college one day per week to achieve a Dental Technology Foundation Degree. Her day-to-day work involves working with all of the latest equipment and creating private crowns and bridges for patients. "On an average day I could make six to seven cases. It's very satisfying to know you've had a positive impact on patients’ lives by providing functional and beautiful teeth.”
Case study: Jinesh’s story
Jinesh wanted to create his own career path and resisted working for his family's dental laboratory business. Things didn’t turn out as expected. After a chemistry degree at Manchester University he found it hard to get into his chosen career. Employers were looking for experience. As a back-up plan he joined the lab and was surprised how much he enjoyed making dental appliances. He signed up for a full-time Level 3 Dental Technology course. Jinesh now manages his family's dental laboratory and has never looked back. The business has expanded under his management and is moving forward with new 3D printing technology. "I'm always busy and I work hard, but it’s really worth it.”