A first year check up!

Before classes stopped we caught up with our first ever NC Oral Health Care (Dental Nursing) Preparing for Practice class to find out more about the course...

Arlene Robertson – Lecturer

“This new course is only being delivered in two colleges across Scotland. It’s a staged approach to a dental nursing qualification, which has never been on offer until now. It allows those who do not have the relevant qualifications to progress to further study.

Students cover a wide range of subjects and gain clinical skills required to work in a dental practice, such as:

• Oral health assessment and improvement
• Dental anatomy
• Safe practices
• First aid
• Decontamination
• Infection prevention
• Dental instruments and materials

Students also develop transferable life skills - effective communication, working with others, behaviour change techniques, etc. There is no formal work placement, however outings and guest speakers enrich the student experience.

As a lecturer I support students with their learning but it’s extremely important to help support their mental and emotional health too. The College offers lots of support to students with medical, mental, emotional and educational concerns. 

I enjoy seeing the students develop skills and grow in confidence, but one of the best things about teaching this course is seeing the impact it has on personal habits. It’s great to see knowledge being put into practice in a professional and personal way, as students change negative tooth brushing and diet habits to positively impact their health.

The dental industry is changing massively, as the government put a strong focus on ‘community’ and ‘prevention’ by integrating other health topics such as smoking cessation, drugs and alcohol, sexual health, diabetes, etc. This could create many opportunities for future dental nurses.

If you have an interest in oral health and are looking for a career in the dental industry this course will provide a strong foundation.”

Gillian

“Dentistry has always been of interest to me but life just seemed to get in the way. I wasn’t working and this opportunity became available.

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my college experience - I would highly recommend it. The course covers dental anatomy, diet, cause of caries, dental standards and much more. I really enjoyed working with others and practice in the surgery.

Having a sense of achievement has motivated me. I hope to move into dental nursing - it will be excellent to have a fantastic career which I have worked hard for.”        

Megan

“I came to college to make a better life for me and my daughter. I hadn’t really socialised with anyone in a couple of years, so I had concerns about fitting in and meeting new people.

College has given me the confidence and support I needed. My communication skills have improved and I’ve gained more knowledge about working with the public.

I hope to go into dental nursing and this course will be a stepping stone to my next career move.”         

Rebecca

“Ayrshire College is a great place. I’ve learned loads about the dental environment and dental anatomy. I really enjoyed the practical elements of the course, such as decontamination.

I hope to become a Dental Nurse and maybe even a Dentist. This course will make a big difference to my future.”

We still have places available for 20/21 – apply now!