Are you looking for a career that truly makes a difference? This is a fantastic opportunity to earn while you learn and begin a rewarding career as a Dental Nurse within our Community Dental Service in Somerset. As an Apprentice Dental Nurse, you'll be supported every step of the way as you work towards a Level 3 Diploma in the Principles and Practice of Dental Nursing through Yeovil College, gaining hands on experience alongside a passionate and experienced dental team.
Our Community Dental Service provides high quality, compassionate dental care to children and adults with additional needs and complex medical conditions—patients who may be unable to access high street dentistry and who often require extra time, reassurance and understanding. This role offers a unique chance to develop specialist skills, build confidence, and make a genuine difference to people's lives, while working in a friendly, supportive environment where learning and development are truly valued.
Main duties of the job
As an Apprentice Dental Nurse, you will work closely with dentists and dental therapists, supporting the delivery of safe, high quality, patient‑centred dental care for individuals who need adaptable approaches and compassionate support. You'll assist with day‑to‑day clinical duties, ensuring each patient feels comfortable, understood and cared for—often when dental treatment can feel daunting or overwhelming for them and their families. Based at one of our Somerset clinics (Bridgwater, Taunton or Yeovil) you will play an essential role in maintaining excellent infection prevention and control standards, preparing clinical areas, supporting patients during treatment, and assisting the dental team in medical emergencies when required.
Job responsibilities & training
You will complete your apprenticeship training with Yeovil College, supported by experienced dental professionals, dedicated assessors and regular one‑to‑one reviews. You will develop the skills, confidence and professionalism needed to qualify as a Dental Nurse and apply for General Dental Council registration upon successful completion of the Level 3 Diploma, opening the door to a rewarding and long‑term career in dental nursing.
Benefits
* Flexible working options to help you balance work and life
* NHS pension scheme for long‑term financial security
* A strong focus on career development to help you grow and achieve your potential
* Access to the Blue Light Card, unlocking exclusive discounts on shopping, dining and leisure activities, and NHS‑specific perks to support you both inside and outside of work
We are proud to foster a diverse, skilled, and inclusive workforce, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds.
Qualifications
* Maths and English grade GCSE level C/4 or above
Experience
* Compassionate – exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively with staff, patients, carers and relatives, remaining sensitive and empathetic
* Good interpersonal skills
* Professional and patient‑focused approach
Additional criteria
* Able to demonstrate a good standard of the English language, with excellent communication skills
* Open‑minded, treats colleagues, patients, carers and relatives with dignity and respect
* High standards of written communication skills with the ability to use email and internet
* Ability to record and retrieve information on paper/electronic records as appropriate
* Able to take instruction and direction and work effectively as part of a team
* Has access to appropriate transport to travel throughout the Trust, to meet the needs of the service and course requirements
Non‑UK National applicants
Applicants must also have a valid and eligible residency status to gain entry onto the apprenticeship, generally having been in the UK for at least 3 years and having the right to remain. Applicants should ensure that the duration of their visa outlasts that of the apprenticeship. Note that this advertised vacancy does not meet the UKVI eligibility requirements for a Skilled Worker Visa, and therefore Somerset NHS Foundation Trust would not be able to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship for this role.
Person specification
Applicants should possess the attributes and experience outlined in the sections above.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and a Disclosure to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly CRB) is required to check for any previous criminal convictions.
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