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Apprentice Dental Nurse

Writtle Dental Practice · Chelmsford · posted 1 June 2026

Wage
£14,508 a year
Hours
30 hours a week
Duration
1 Year 9 Months
Level
Advanced (Level 3)
Standard
Dental nurse (level 3)
Starts
1 October 2026
Closing date
1 August 2026
Positions
1

Apply on the official government service →No Apprentice League account needed — we never gate applications.

Your main duties will be assisting the dentist with preparing instruments and equipment, mixing different materials as required and providing suction support.

You will undertake your practical duties such as:

  • Cross infection control and decontamination
  • Chair side clinical treatments supporting the dentist
  • Processing of x-rays
  • Accurate record keeping in line with the GDPR

Possible rotation in the practice may also involve working in central decontamination and reception duties.

Your training

  • Working towards the Level 3 Dental Nurse (GDC 2023) Apprenticeship Standard
  • Fortnightly college workshops at Colchester Institute (Colchester Campus)
  • During the course all students are observed regularly in the workplace undertaking clinical duties and ensuring they are following safe working practice

Where it leads

  • Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship you will gain a Licence to Practice Qualification that will allow you to register with the General Dental Council (GDC) and you can move into registered/qualified positions. Once qualified and GDC-registered, dental nurses can work in NHS or private practices, community dental services, hospitals or the armed forces.
  • There are also opportunities to progress into dental radiography, oral health education, orthodontic nursing, sedation nursing, dental practice management, and dental hygiene or therapy (with additional training).

About Writtle Dental Practice

Writtle Dental Practice is a friendly, local family practice in Chelmsford, where comfortable, high quality dental care is their passion. They combine a calm and relaxed atmosphere, outstanding patient care and the latest techniques to create the ultimate dental experience for their patients.

They provide Private, Denplan and NHS dental care as well as treatments such as tooth whitening, cosmetic dental treatment (including veneers) as well as clear braces, composite bonding and dental implants.

Things to consider

The successful applicant will be required to undertake a DBS check and complete a course Hepatitis B vaccinations. Commencement of work can be negotiated individually depending on personal circumstances and commitments, such as GCSE or A-Level examinations.

Skills they're looking for

Communication skillsAttention to detailCustomer care skillsTeam workingInitiativeNon judgementalPatienceManual dexterityTrustworthiness

Entry requirements

  • GCSE 5 GCSE's including maths and English (grade 9-4/A*-C) — essential
  • GCSE Science is also preferred for career progression (grade 9-4/A*-C) — desired

Where you'll work

  • 4 LAWFORD LANE, WRITTLE, CHELMSFORD, CM1 3EA

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