Becoming a dental nurse tutor is a natural path of progression for some in the dental industry, and it can be a position that holds a lot of interest and stimulation as you help to guide the next generation of excellent dental nurses. But what does the role entail, and how do you become a tutor?
The Role
Dental nurse tutors play an essential part in the training and teaching of new dental nurse employees. They are there to guide students through the coursework they have to complete and to prepare them, not just for work, but also for the exams that come at the end of studying. Being a tutor can be a demanding job which requires patience, kindness and understanding, alongside a good working knowledge of the industry – but it can also be incredibly rewarding to guide your students in their studies.
The Requirements
Dental nurse tutors must hold additional qualifications that go beyond the standard dental nurse diploma. Originally the PTLLS, the now Level 3 in Education and Training is the bare minimum requirement for employability by any reputable dental training course provider, and it can also be completed at Levels 4 and 5 with trusted course providers.
While the education and training qualification is one of the more vital components, you will also be likely to need additional qualifications gained throughout your dental nurse career, which could include radiograph or oral health education training. This further training demonstrates not only your commitment to dentistry and your passion for the industry, but also your understanding of potential course materials, which will make you a better candidate for future tutor employment.
As well as formal qualifications, you will need to have excellent interpersonal skills – you will need to be able to communicate efficiently and helpfully, as you’ll be regularly contacting students and other dental professionals. Alongside this, you’ll need strong time management, organisational and project management skills, and the ability to be friendly and approachable as you help students gain their qualifications and prepare for stressful exams. They will look to you for guidance and assume you are all-knowing, so being clear and concise while keeping a calm head is a must, too.
Summary
Dental nurse tutors undertake the role with the understanding that they will be helping new students to enter the dental industry. Therefore, they must be prepared to guide and nurture the new generation of dental nurses – which also means being willing to put in a lot of hard work. By gaining Level 3, 4, or 5 in Education and Training in addition to any other complementary qualifications, you can ensure that you are able to share the best, most up to date industry knowledge with the newest recruits, thereby helping them on their way in successful and lucrative careers while you continue to grow within your own.
By Natasha Garthwaite BSc, RDN