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 michelle.nicholson@riverdalehealthcare.com