We are a centre of excellence that delivers high-quality learning opportunities that support the personal and professional development of individuals passionate about launching and progressing their careers.
Our mission
To be a leading and recognised training provider who deliver consistently high-quality education and positive experiences. We ensure that learners are supported and equipped with the knowledge, skills and behaviours to reach their full potential, to succeed and thrive in their personal and professional development.
What courses do we offer?
- Dental Nurse (GDC 2023) ST1431 Apprenticeship Standard
- Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing (4238-03)
- Post registration Certificate in Oral Health Education
- Post registration Certificate in Orthodontic Nursing
- Post registration Certificate in Dental Sedation Nursing
- Diploma in Orthodontic Therapy (Dip.Ortho Ther RCSEd)
Contact Details
Telephone: 0161 272 5670
Email: admin.dcp@mft.nhs.uk
The School for Dental Care Professionals
University Dental Hospital,
Higher Cambridge St,
Manchester
M15 6FH
Conveniently placed on the 3rd floor of the staff entrance of the University Dental Hospital, we are in the heart of the Manchester University campus and within close proximity of Manchester Royal Infirmary, Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital and the Manchester Royal Eye Hospital.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/mcrschooldcp
Instagram: www.instagram.com/mcrschooldcp
Meet The School for Dental Care Professionals Team.
Click here to meet the team.
Testimonials
My journey as a dental nurse began in 2013, inspired by my sister, who motivated me to pursue an apprenticeship in the field. Starting my dental nurse apprenticeship with the School for Dental Care Professionals, University Dental Hospital of Manchester was an exciting yet challenging time. I was thrilled to gain hands-on experience and meet new people, forming friendships that made the journey memorable. Balancing the demands of studying, working, and maintaining a home life was initially difficult, but the sense of achievement when I qualified was amazing.
Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working in various sectors, including NHS and private practices, as well as taking on the role of a locum nurse. Each experience taught me valuable lessons: the NHS highlighted the importance of efficiency and patient care, while private practice gave me insight into patient expectations and personal perspectives. Extending my skills further, I pursued post-qualifications in IV sedation and dental implant nursing, but I eventually found my passion in orthodontics. Managing my own clinics, overseeing stock, and organising dentists’ schedules honed my organisational and leadership skills.
Returning to the University Dental Hospital of Manchester was always my goal, and I am fortunate to now work in the paediatric and orthodontic departments. My current responsibilities include running my own clinics, managing the department’s social media, and supporting theatre work. I am excited about future opportunities, such as the oral health practitioner course, and look forward to continuing my development in this rewarding field.
If I could give myself advice 18 months ago before starting my dental nurse apprenticeship, I would say to embrace every moment of the journey.
It’s normal to feel nervous, but remember that everyone starts somewhere, and it’s okay to ask questions and seek help. Focus on building relationships with your colleagues and mentors, as they can provide invaluable support and guidance. I would also say to not be too hard on yourself, you’re still learning, and you won’t get everything right straight away and that’s okay!
I would also remind myself to stay organised and manage my time effectively, as balancing assignments and practical training can be challenging.
Lastly, don’t forget to celebrate the small victories along the way; each step you take is a part of your growth and learning.
Trust the process, stay curious, and enjoy the experience!
Apprentice Dental Nurse – 2024 – 2025
Starting my dental nurse apprenticeship was a whirlwind of emotions. Initially, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. The thought of stepping into a professional environment, learning new skills, and interacting with patients was both thrilling and daunting. I remember feeling overwhelmed by the amount of information I needed to absorb and the responsibility that came with the role. However, as I settled into the routine and began to grasp the basics, my confidence started to grow. Coming straight from high school into a full-time position was very nerve-racking. I remember on my first day at practice, I was terrified as I didn’t know a single thing about dental nursing. The team, well the family, we have become have been an extraordinary help. Always being patient with me but also pushing me because they saw the potential I couldn’t see when I first started. About halfway through the course, clinically I felt my skills (especially communication) had grown miles and that was down to the support from Jayne, my Tutor and Amy, my Assessor at Manchester Dental Hospital. They were always an email away if I ever struggled and they helped me gain confidence in my duties as a dental nurse.
By the end of the apprenticeship, my feelings had transformed significantly. I felt proud of what I had accomplished and grateful for the experiences I had gained. The course provided me with a solid foundation in dental nursing, from understanding procedures to developing patient care skills. I also learned the importance of teamwork and communication in a clinical setting, which has been invaluable. The end of the course was a milestone for me. Coming into such a fast-paced environment right after sitting GCSES was daunting to say the least but as the course developed so did I. I learnt skills which I never thought possible, I gained friends who have become invaluable to me, and I had the confidence and support from my classmates during the difficult period of us sitting our exam. Completing this apprenticeship has changed me. I am more confident in myself, my skills in dental nursing are very developed and this helps me with helping the new trainees as I have been in their shoes.
The benefits of the course have been immense. Not only have I gained practical skills and knowledge, but I’ve also developed a deeper understanding of the dental profession. This apprenticeship has opened doors for my future career, and I feel more prepared to take on challenges in the field. Overall, the journey has been rewarding, and I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.
Apprentice Dental Nurse 2024 – 2025, and now a qualified Dental Nurse and GDC Registrant
We selected Manchester Dental Hospital school as they are a recognised training provider with an excellent reputation. All the team have dental background, so they are all very supportive and knowledgeable.
Our trainee had a study day once a week either by attending Manchester Dental Hospital school or a study day at home via Teams. The centre was easily assessable by public transport which was vital for our trainee as they were a school leaver.
The benefit of an apprentice is that you can earn while you learn – you even get paid for the study day. There are also no tuition fees for the apprentice to pay. While the trainee is at work they are gaining hands on training with the support of the Dentists, Hygiene Therapists and Dental Nurses.
The trainee was supported with regular performance reviews with us (the employer), her tutor and assessor. They were assigned a mentor at work which the school provides online training for.
We would highly recommend the school due to their support, success rate and excellent facilities and staff. We are already looking for another apprentice to join our team who is studying with Manchester Dental Hospital school.
Accreditations
Awarding bodies are specialist organisations that design and deliver qualifications, certificates, diplomas, and awards. Experts in their field, they formally recognise the quality of learning providers and centres, and courses, as well as the knowledge and skills of learners studying them.
The school are formally recognised for the quality of their delivery to the programs they offer, these include:
- City & Guilds for the delivery of the pre dental nurse courses
- The National Examining Board for Dental Nurses (NEBDN) for the delivery of the post registration courses
- Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh for the delivery of the Diploma in Orthodontic Therapy course
- Apprenticeship delivery – MFT was inspected by Her Majesty’s Inspectors from OFSTED on 21st – 24th February 2023 for the delivery of apprenticeships, the SDCP’s actively deliver apprenticeships for dental nurses. OFSTED found the provider to be Good in all areas. The full Inspection report can be found here: MFT Full Inspection: Good