Opportunity for Orthodontic Therapy Training
We are seeking a dedicated and highly motivated Dental Care Professional to join our Orthodontic Therapy Training Programme, commencing September 2026.
This 13-month structured training programme offers an exceptional opportunity for GDC-registered dental care professionals to progress their careers in specialist orthodontics.
Clinical training will take place across three North East orthodontic sites:
* Heaton
* Rake Lane (North Tyneside)
* Gateshead
Candidates must be willing to travel and work across all training locations.
Programme Overview
* Duration: 13 months
* Start Date: September 2026
* Training Provider: University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)
Training Structure
* A five-week intensive training block at UCLan (September/October 2026)
* Ongoing academic and practical training, requiring attendance at UCLan two days per month
* Following the initial training block, the trainee will work a minimum of four days per week in practice, under the supervision of orthodontic specialists
Entry Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
* GCSE English and Maths at Grade C/4 or above (or equivalent)
(documentary evidence required at interview)
* Current employment at Riverdale Healthcare as one of the following:
* Dental Nurse
* Dental Hygienist
* Dental Therapist
* Dental Technician
* Clinical Dental Technician
* GDC registration with a minimum of one year's full-time post-qualification experience
* English language requirement:
If English is not your first language, an IELTS score of at least 7.0 overall is required
* Occupational health screening and clearance
* Enhanced DBS clearance
Essential Criteria
Applicants must demonstrate:
Experience of working within an orthodontic specialist practice and/or with a GDC-registered orthodontic specialist
Excellent organisational skills and a high level of professionalism
Strong manual dexterity and exceptional attention to detail
A clear commitment to learning and ongoing professional development
Excellent communication skills with a strong command of the English language
Desirable Criteria
* A recognised qualification in orthodontic nursing
* A dental radiography qualification (e.g. NEBDN or equivalent)
* Additional post-qualification or extended-duties certifications relevant to orthodontic practice
* Experience with digital orthodontics, including intraoral scanning and digital workflows
* Evidence of leadership, mentoring, teaching, or supervisory experience
* Demonstrated engagement in CPD beyond GDC minimum requirements
* Experience with clinical governance, audits, safeguarding, or quality improvement initiatives
Remuneration & Career Progression
* Pay during training: To be confirmed
* Upon successful completion of the programme and registration on the GDC Orthodontic Therapist register, a pay and service structure review will be undertaken, based on professional progression and competency assessments.
Application & Interview Process
* Application deadline: 14 January 2026 (late applications may not be considered)
* Interview date: Tuesday 3 February 2026
(shortlisted candidates must be available on this date)
* Final interview: Successful applicants will undertake a secondary selection process with UCLaN
How to Apply
To apply, please submit a CV and covering letter as a PDF format of both combined.
Important:
If successful at interview, enrolment onto the training programme is subject to a final interview with the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan).
Any further questions- please email