Dental Nurse - Apprentice Somerset

Job description

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 jobAs 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 & trainingYou 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 applicantsApplicants 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 specificationApplicants should possess the attributes and experience outlined in the sections above.

Disclosure and Barring Service CheckThis 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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Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

Yeovil

Type of Contract

Full-time jobs

Published at

21-05-2026

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English