First there was the introduction of professional registration back in 2007 and now there is the fantastic news regarding Avril Ware, the first Dental Nurse in the Yorkshire region to graduate from the University of Hull with a new foundation degree for qualified Dental Nurses.
The University of Hull, where Avril graduated, is only the second university in the country to offer this degree.
The future is certainly looking bright for Dental Nurses and these are very exciting times as the Dental Nurse role is becoming more and more recognised and respected amongst the medical field.
So what exactly is the Foundation Degree in Post-qualifying Dental Nursing Practice?
This qualification requires applicants to hold the National Certificate in Dental Nursing or an equivalent qualification, such as the NVQ in Oral Health and Dental Nursing. It is aimed at Dental Nurses wishing to expand their dental knowledge in order to improve their nursing skills and also Dental Nurses wishing to climb up the career ladder and train as a Dental Therapist for example.
Avril is clearly thrilled with her fantastic achievement and will have surely inspired many Dental Nurses across the country to advance themselves further.
She said: ‘Dental nursing is becoming much more respected as a career and qualifications like this really do help raise the profile.
‘I am now applying to dental school and places are really competitive – this foundation degree will help me stand out from the other applicants.
‘I would recommend the course to others who are looking to increase their knowledge and skills in dental nursing or like me want to take the next step into areas such as dental therapy.’
For all Dental Nurses who have busy lives or cannot afford to attend University full time, there is the option of studying for the degree on a part time basis as well as full time. The full time option requires two years in order to complete the course and the part time option requires four years.
How can I find out more?
Currently, there are two universities in the country which offer the foundation degree- the University of Hull and the University of Northampton. More specific information about the degree can be found at:
www2.hull.ac.uk/fhsc/courses/foundationdegrees/dentalnursepractice.aspx
www.northampton.ac.uk/courses/410/dental-nursing-fdsc/
If you are seriously considering advancing yourself and your career, then this course is for you. It is now time for us to shine!