Meet the Team

Exciting New Beginnings: Returning to the School as Dental Education Manager

I am thrilled to announce my return to the School for Dental Care Professionals, as the Dental Education Manager. After some incredible years of professional growth, I’ve come full circle to lead and contribute to the amazing team here at the school. I had the privilege of previous employment as the Education & Development Manager and prior to that, a Dental Nurse Tutor and Clinical Dental Nurse. I am excited to embrace the opportunity to further enhance the educational experience for all of our learners, shaping and inspiring the next generation of dental care professionals through education, training and professional development.

Qualifications:

• September 2024 – Level 3 Certificate in Principles of Management – ICQ
• January 2021 – Leading the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice – Pearsons
• December 2016 – Leadership and Management – Foundation ILM
• July 2011 – BA(Hons) in Education 2:1 – The University of Lancaster
• August 2008 – Certificate in Education, Education and Training in the Post Compulsory Sector – University of Huddersfield
• May 2008 – Level 2 Certificate in Adult Numeracy – City & Guilds
• December 2001 – Level 4 Internally Verify the Assessment Process – Edexcel
• November 1998 – Level 3 Assessors Award – OCR
• September 1995 – Certificate in Assisting in the Care of the Patient Relating to Treatment Under Conscious Sedation – NEBDN
• November 1993 – Radiography for Dental Surgery Assistants, University of Wales, Bangor Department of Radiography Education
• March 1994 – Certificate in Oral Health Education with Merit – NEBDN
• July 1987 – National Certificate for Dental Surgery Assistants – NEBDN

Professional Membership:

General Dental Council – 119932

With 18 years of experience in the dental field, I began my journey training as a dental nurse in Spain. In 2019, I joined the School for Dental Care Professionals department, initially as the Dental Liaison Officer, before progressing to my current role as a Dental Nurse Assessor. Recently, I have further enhanced my professional credentials by completing the Level 4 Award in Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice.

Quality has always been my primary focus, and this is reflected in my commitment to continual professional development.

My primary responsibilities include:

As a Dental Nurse Assessor, I manage cohorts of learners to ensure that dental nurses are trained to the highest standards and are competent in providing care to patients. I am responsible for assessing the skills, knowledge, and behaviours of trainee dental nurses through a variety of assessment methods to ensure they meet the required competency level, whilst supporting them to achieve their qualification. I maintain a high level of quality by following the school’s processes and adhering to the standards of the Awarding Body.

Qualifications:

• City and Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing – 2015
• Certificate in Dental Impression Taking – 2018
• Uclan Certificate in Oral Health Education – 2017
• Certificate in Fluoride Application – 2017
• Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (CAVA) – 2021
• Level 4 Award in Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice – 2024

Professional Membership:

General Dental Council – 257260

Roles, responsibilities & expertise:

I initially commenced my career as a qualified dental nurse and gained post qualifications in radiography, orthodontic nursing, oral health with merit, mentorship clinical education, record taking and social prescribing.

I have worked for MFT NHS Foundation Trust for 24 years in the orthodontic department and qualified as an Orthodontic Therapist in 2012 after gaining my qualification at the School for Dental Care Professionals, University Dental Hospital of Manchester. I now work with the Orthodontists to treat patients who present with a variety of complex malocclusions.

Since qualifying as an orthodontic therapist, I am actively involved with the delivery of the theoretical and practical teaching using typodonts of the trainee orthodontic therapists on the School for Dental Care Professionals, University Dental Hospital of Manchester’s Orthodontic Therapy course.  I am also involved in the teaching on the NEBDN post-qualification course for Orthodontic Nurses. I have experience in speaking at conferences and study days, sharing my knowledge and skills of orthodontic therapy.

I am the current chairman for the Orthodontic National Group for nurses, therapist’s, practice managers and treatment co-ordinators, and hold regular study events and webinars for the group as well as attending meetings with the GDC, FDS, and BOS to put DCPs at the forefront of all the groups professional values.

Professional Membership

General Dental Council – 115325

My professional journey commenced as a dental nurse, progressing into lead nurse and practice management positions. Over the course of my career, I have successfully led clinical dental nurse teams, overseen emergency dental triage, and conducted Oral Health clinics. With two decades of experience in dental practice management, I have developed entire dental teams and managed all aspects of the dental business.

Following many years of clinical practice, I accrued diverse experience in health and social care workforce projects. I have supported dental nursing, health & social care, and non-clinical learners as part of the Skills for Health Academy team. My role as Placement Development Manager involved creating learning opportunities for Student Nurses and Allied Health Professionals within GP practices and Social Care settings. Additionally, I led the initiative for widening participation, careers, and engagement as the Healthcare Lead for the Greater Manchester Health and Social Care Careers Hub. As the Operational Lead for the Trainee Nursing Associate Apprenticeship, I spearheaded Health Education England’s efforts to enhance Nursing apprenticeship opportunities in Social Care.

This extensive background has equipped me with a wide array of transferable skills, which I now bring, in conjunction with my dental expertise, to the position of Dental Nurse Assessor. I am dedicated to nurturing the professional growth of dental nurses and supporting both them and the wider team in achieving their career progression goals.

Qualifications:

• Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement – 2023, Tameside College
• Edward Jenner Leadership Programme – 2022, NHS Leadership Academy
• Prince 2 Foundation Certificate in Project Management – 2018, Axelos
• Level 3 Award in Reviewing Health and Safety Procedures in the Workplace (QCF) – 2014, Pearson Edexcel
• Level 4 Award in Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector – 2014, City & Guilds
• Practice Based Prevention and Application of Fluoride Varnish – 2011, The University of Salford
• Advanced Certificate in Health Service Management – 2007, University of Central Lancashire
• Level 3 Introductory Certificate in First Line Management – 2006, Institute of Leadership and Management
• NVQ Customer Service Level 3 – 1998, City & Guilds
• Certificate in Oral Health Education – 1996, The National Examining Board for Dental Nurses
• Dental Surgery Assistant National Certificate – 1992, The National Examining Board for Dental Surgery Assistants

Professional Membership:

General Dental Council – 134511

As a dedicated and passionate professional within the School for Dental Care Professionals, I play a pivotal role in supporting and assessing trainee dental nurses. With a focus on their development, I oversee learners pursuing either the Advanced Apprenticeship in Health – Dental Nursing or the Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing programme. I am deeply committed to fostering the growth of learners and take great satisfaction in teaching and assessing their progress for them to achieve.

With expertise in both clinical practice and education, I am dedicated to shaping the next generation of dental professionals.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Dental Surgery – 2011
• Masters in Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry – 2016
• Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (CAVA) – 2021
• Level 4 Internal Quality Assurance Qualification – 2024

Professional Membership:

General Dental Council – 311315, registered as a dental therapist

I have been a dedicated member of the department for 8 years, beginning my career as a Dental Liaison Officer and quickly advancing to the role of Dental Nurse Assessor. I thoroughly enjoy my role and all the opportunities it brings. I am excited to embark on my new venture into quality assurance within the department.

Currently, my responsibilities include managing, supporting and assessing groups of Trainee and Apprentice Dental Nurses as they undertake their training in the Level 3 Extended Diploma or Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing programme.

Qualifications:

• Advanced Apprenticeship in Health – Dental Nursing – 2016
• Certificate in Dental Impression Taking – 2017
• Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (CAVA) – 2019
• Level 3 Certificate in Dental Decontamination – 2019
• Level 3 Award in Education and Training – 2021
• Level 3 Dental Practice Management (Distance Learning) – 2023
• In learning: Level 4 Internal Quality Assurance

Professional Membership:

General Dental Council – 266778

As a Dental Nurse Tutor, I deliver the primary dental nurse qualifications at the school, these include programmes for the Advanced Apprenticeship for Dental Nursing and the City and Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing.

I particularly enjoy supporting learners with additional learning needs.

Additionally, I serve as the Administrator for the school, handling course enquiries, booking and invigilating exams, amongst many other administration duties.

I am also appointed as the schools Fire Officer ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all learners and staff.

Qualifications:

• NEBDN Dental Nursing Qualification – May 2001
• Award in Preparing to Teach in the Lifelong Learning Sector – August 2009
• University of Huddersfield – Certificate in Further Education -August 2011
• NEBDN Oral Health Education with Merit -March 2006
• NEBDN Dental Radiography – December 2009
• Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (QCF) – July 2014
• City and Guilds Level 3 Certificate in Dental Decontamination – December 2017
• Dental Impression Taking – June 2015

Professional Membership:

General Dental Council – 112263

I started dental nursing on a YTS scheme in the 1980’s and was placed in a local dental practice which gave me a great start and insight into dentistry and where I gained the National Diploma in Dental Nursing Qualification.

After several years I transitioned to the Manchester Dental Hospital where I worked as a qualified dental nurse within the Restorative Department. In a short time, I had completed post qualifications in sedation and oral health. I had always enjoyed learning and continued to enhance my knowledge in dentistry and working in a teaching environment was also beneficial. I progressed and worked as a Senior Dental Nurse in several areas within the hospital, continuing to learn and manage staff whilst teaching on the department. I have always strived to share my knowledge and experience with dental nurse trainees and when the opportunity arose, I gained qualifications in assessing and teaching.

After a long time working clinically, I joined the School for Dental Care Professionals in 2019.

My specialist interests are Sedation, Special Needs, Endodontology and Periodontology.

I deliver the primary dental nurse qualifications at the school; these include programmes for the Advanced Apprenticeship for Dental Nursing and City and Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing. I am also actively involved in the delivery of NEBDN post registration qualifications, these include Dental Sedation Nursing and Dental Implant Nursing.

Qualifications:

• The National Examining Board for Dental Surgery Assistants – 1986
• NEBDN Conscious Sedation – 1990
• NEBDN Oral Health Education – 1991
• City and Guilds Vocational Assessors Award – 1996
• Further and Adult Education Teaching Certificate -1999

Professional Memberships:

General Dental Council – 133962

SAAD

I have been a qualified dental nurse since 2012, spending most of my career in London treating special care patients. In 2019, I moved to Manchester to work in the Children’s department at the University Dental Hospital of Manchester. A year after relocating, the pandemic hit, and I was redeployed to the MRI to work on COVID Ward 1.

Since 2022, I have been serving as the Dental Liaison Officer for the School for Dental Care Professionals. My main role is to be the initial point of contact for the school.

My primary responsibilities include:

• Promoting and recruiting for the school’s pre- and post-dental training programmes for Dental Nurses, including the Level 3 Diploma, Apprenticeship, NEBDN post registration qualifications, CPD events and Orthodontic Therapy.
• Recruiting and placing Trainee Dental Nurses in General Dental Practice placements.
• Visiting schools, colleges, dental practices, and careers events to advocate for our Dental Nurse Training programmes.
• Planning and organising meetings, events, and interviews.
• Performing administrative and clerical duties related to the vocational programmes offered.

These duties ensure that our programmes are effectively communicated, organised, and managed to meet the needs of prospective members of the dental team aswell as current and existing trainees.

Qualifications:

• National Diploma in Dental Nursing, NEBDN – 2012
• Post Registration Certificate in Dental Sedation Nursing, NEBDN – 2016

Professional Membership:

General Dental Council – 225646

As a Dental Nurse Tutor, assessor, and health & wellbeing champion, I am responsible for delivering dental nurse qualifications at the School for Dental Care Professionals. These include programmes for the City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing, Advanced Nursing, Advanced Apprenticeship for Dental Nursing, and active involvement in the delivery of NEBDN post-registration qualifications. My teaching philosophy is centred around the rule that by creating a learning environment that is enjoyable and meaningful to their qualification, every learner can succeed with the right guidance & support.

Outside the classroom, I enjoy trekking with my dogs, spending time with my family, and providing support in dementia-friendly communities.

Qualifications:

• Dental Hospital Certificate in Dental Nursing – 1987, UDHM
• National Certificate for Dental Surgery Assistants – 1989, NEBDN
• Assisting with Patients under Conscious Sedation – 1995, NEBDN
• D32/33 Assessors Award – 1999, Qualification & Curriculum Authority
• 7307 Teachers Certificate – 2000, City & Guilds

Professional Membership:

General Dental Council – 147972

I have worked at Manchester Dental Hospital since 1992 in various roles, beginning as a trainee dental nurse. Over the years, I qualified and advanced to senior dental nurse and then tutor dental nurse. My goal is to assist, empower, and enhance the experience of trainee dental nurses in becoming competent and confident safe practitioners, as well as to improve the knowledge and skills of those already qualified in the field.

With substantial experience in dental nursing education and specialisations, I proficiently deliver and support dental nurses in both primary qualifications and post-registration training. This includes the Advanced Apprenticeship for Dental Nursing and the City and Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing, Certificates in Oral Health Education, Dental Sedation Nursing and Orthodontic Nursing.

Additionally, I contribute to the Trainee Orthodontic Therapist course under the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.

As the Fire Officer and Safeguarding Lead for the school, I am responsible for ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all learners and staff.

Qualifications:

• National Certificate for Dental Surgery Assistants, NEBDN – May 1994
• University Dental Hospital of Manchester – Certificate for Dental Nursing, Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing – June 1994
• Certificate in Oral Health Education, NEBDN – September 1996
• Certificate in Conscious Sedation, NEBDN – March 1997
• The Further and Adult Education Teachers Certificate, City and Guilds – July 1998
• Certificate in Orthodontic Nursing, NEBDN – June 2002
• University of Huddersfield – Certificate in Education – August 2010
• Bachelor of Science – Contemporary Health Practice – June 2021

Professional Membership:

General Dental Council – 115087

As a Dental Nurse Assessor, I am responsible for managing and supporting the development of trainee dental nurses as they progress through their training. This includes assessing cohorts of trainee dental nurses as they undertake their dental nurse training. This could be the City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing, Advanced Apprenticeship in Health – Dental Nursing, or the National Diploma in Dental Nursing (NEBDN).

Qualifications:

• Level 3 Diploma in Dental Nursing – 2008
• Level 3 NVQ in Management – 2011
• Level 3 Award in Education and Training – 2022
• Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (CAVA)- 2023

Professional Membership:

General Dental Council – 137098