Level 3 Dental Nurse Apprenticeship
The UK’s leading Dental Nurse Apprenticeship offers a structured and practical route to becoming a GDC-registered Dental Nurse, equipping learners with the core clinical, patient care, and infection control skills needed to thrive in a modern dental practice.
Qualification level
Level 3
Duration
18 months
Next start date
February 2026
Delivery method
Online and in-practice
Course fee
8000
The UK’s leading Dental Nurse Apprenticeship offers a structured and practical route to becoming a GDC-registered Dental Nurse, equipping learners with the core clinical, patient care, and infection control skills needed to thrive in a modern dental practice.
Apprentices gain hands-on experience in chairside support, dental procedure preparation, sterilisation, and maintaining a safe and hygienic environment, while developing confidence in managing patient records and delivering high-quality patient care.
Who is this course for?
This Dental Nurse Apprenticeship is ideal for individuals who are passionate about starting a rewarding career in dentistry and becoming a key member of the dental team. Whether you’re a school leaver, career changer, or someone already working in a dental setting, this programme provides the essential training to become a GDC-registered Dental Nurse.
With a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification, this apprenticeship opens the door to long-term career progression in dentistry , including routes to become an Oral Health Practitioner, Dental Practice Manager , and even pathways toward becoming a Dental Hygienist or Dental Therapist.
What will you learn?
Throughout this apprenticeship, learners will build a strong foundation in dental nursing, gaining practical knowledge in patient care, and maintaining a safe and hygienic dental environment. The course introduces key areas such as dental anatomy, radiography, oral health education, and supporting treatments like fillings and minor oral surgery. Apprentices will also learn how to respond to medical emergencies, assist with infection control, and contribute to overall patient well-being.
What does GDC- registered mean?
Becoming GDC-registered means you’re officially recognised by the General Dental Council (GDC) – the UK’s regulator for dental professionals. This registration shows that you’ve met the required qualifications and standards to safely work in dentistry or provide certain types of dental care.
Upon successful completion of the Level 3 Dental Nurse Apprenticeship, you will become GDC-registered meaning you are also eligible to enrol on our post-registration courses.
Curriculum
By completing this apprenticeship, learners will study and understand:
- Introduction to Dental Nurse practice
- Health and safety in dental settings
- Infection control and prevention
- First aid and medical emergency response
- Communication and patient care
- Dental and regional anatomy
- Radiography and imaging techniques
- Periodontal disease and caries management
- Endodontic procedures support
- Extractions and minor oral surgery
- Prosthetic treatment support
- Oral and physical health education
- Quality improvement in dental practice
- Professional development and appraisal
- Professional competency and career progression
Tutor Bio
Hello, I’m xxx, a Tutor Assessor here at Tempdent. As a Level 3 Dental Nurse Apprenticeship Tutor, I work closely with each apprentice to make sure they feel supported, confident, and on track with their learning. Every week, I run one-to-one sessions tailored to your progress, alongside online group workshops where you build practical skills together with others on the same course.
I also stay in regular contact with your workplace mentor to guide you through challenges and celebrate your wins. My goal is to help you understand all of the course content and reach your full potential.
This course gives you everything you need to succeed, and I’ll be with you every step of the way!
Apprenticeship Funding
This apprenticeship is supported by government funding, making it a cost-effective way for dental practices to invest in staff development.
Levy-Paying Employers (annual payroll over £3 million):
The full £8,000 course fee is covered through your apprenticeship levy via your digital account. If your levy funds are fully used, co-investment is available, and your practice pays just 5% (£400), and the government covers the remaining 95%.
Non-Levy Paying Employers (SMEs) (annual payroll under £3 million):
Apprentices aged 16–21 are fully funded by the government, with no cost to your business. For apprentices aged 22 and over, your practice contributes only 5% (£400), while the government funds 95% (£7,600).
Courses available
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National Diploma in Dental Nursing - Online
This 12 months online dental nursing diploma course is comprised of a written examination, practical examinations and a workplace portfolio (Record of Experience).
The awarding body for the National Diploma for dental nurse qualification is the National Examining Board for Dental Nurses (NEBDN.) Tempdent is an accredited NEBDN training centre.
We offer a choice of weekend or evening classes through our online learning platform.
Who Should Attend
- Unqualified dental nurses already working as dental nurses
- Candidates interested in becoming a dental nurse
- Qualified but unregistered dental nurses who wish to obtain a dental nursing qualification and be registered with the GDC
- Overseas qualified dentists wishing to work as dental nurses in the UK
Intakes and Venues
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We have 2 intakes per year for our Dental Nurse course, please enquire. Check our website or call us on 020 8371 6700 for start dates.
- This course closes 2 weeks before the published start date.
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We are able to run the National Diploma qualification in-house at your dental practice by special arrangement. Please note that standard course fees may not apply.
- Classes are delivered online through live webinars and supported with online learning resources.
How to Book
- You will need to attend an online enrolment where your literacy and numeracy skills levels will be assessed via a 20 minute Level 1 Basic Skills Assessment.
- All experienced dental nurses will also need to sit a 15 minute Dental Initial Assessment in order to assess the existing level of dental knowledge.
- You will then have a 1:1 interview with a member of our training team who will provide successful applicants with a course acceptance letter.
- To book an enrolment, please contact us on 0208 371 6700.
Course Fee
- The course fee is currently only £1450 + VAT, excluding a £525.00 examination fee.
- We are able to offer Functional Skills support at an extra cost, if you did not attain a GCSE Maths or English at grade C or above.
- A non-refundable deposit payment of £600.00+ VAT will be required to complete your enrolment
Download the brochure
£1450.00
Apprenticeship in Dental Nursing - Online
The Apprenticeship in Dental Nursing is an 18 months government funded course and is comprised of 3 main components, which is acredited by City and Guilds Awarding Body. This course is part of our blended-based learning programme and offers students the chance to complete via our e-learning portfolio.
This qualification is comprised of 3 main components:
• City & Guilds Level 3 Extended Diploma in Dental Nursing
• Functional Skills English & Maths level 2 qualifications (unless exempt. Typical exemptions include Maths and English GCSEs grade A-C)
• Integrated End Point Assessment
This qualification is accredited by City & Guilds and is delivered via our online blended learning platform.
Candidates must be employed as a dental nurse before enrolling onto this course. If you are not currently employed as a dental nurse, please visit our Apprenticeship Jobs Section. Tempdent uploads new vacancies to the site on a daily basis
The Diploma in Dental Nursing is a privately funded course and is comprised of the Level 3 Dental Diploma. This qualification too is awarded by City & Guilds and is delivered through our online platform.
Who should attend
- Unqualified Dental Nurses already working in a Dental Practice
- Those interested in becoming a Dental Nurse and working in Dentistry.
- Unqualified Dental Nurses who wish to obtain a Dental Nursing Qualification and join General Dental Council (GDC) register as a Dental Professional.
Intakes and venues
- We have intakes starting every January, April, July and October.
- This is a blended learning (online) course.
How to book
Contact us to express your interest in the course. Once you have confirmed your interest, we will email you a registration link in order for you to complete your enrolment.
Once you have completed your enrolment process, you will be contacted by one of our administrators to confirm your acceptance on to the next course intake.
If you require any support in completing the enrolment process please do not hesitate to contact us at academysupport@tempdent.co.uk or 020 8371 6700.
Course Fees - payable by employer
Download the brochure
Funded if eligable
FAQs
How long is the apprenticeship?
The apprenticeship is 18 month long.
Do I need prior dental experience?
No you do not need previous dental experience. Whether you’re a school leaver, career changer, or someone already working in a dental setting, this programme provides the essential training to become a GDC-registered Dental Nurse.
Do I need a work placement before applying?
Candidates must be employed as a Dental Nurse for at least 30 hours per week. We work with dental practices across the UK who are looking for a new apprentice to join their team and learn on the job. Check out our dental apprenticeship vacancies to find a practice near you!
Is there an age limit?
Candidates must be ages 16+, making this apprenticeship ideal for any school leavers or someone looking for a career change.
What happens after completing the apprenticeship?
With a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification, this apprenticeship opens the door to long-term career progression in dentistry , including routes to become an Oral Health Practitioner, Dental Practice Manager , and even pathways toward becoming a Dental Hygienist or Dental Therapist.
What support will I get during training?
You will get a Tutor Assessor who works closely with each apprentice to make sure they feel supported, confident, and on track with their learning. They run one-to-one sessions tailored to your progress, alongside online group workshops where you build practical skills together with others on the same course. As well as regular contact should you need support with anything.