Qualification Code:

L3DDENTAL

Duration:

12 months

Delivery Method:

Online

Cost:

£2040


Course Overview

Launch Your Career as a Qualified Dental Nurse with Online Learning and On-the-Job Support

The NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma in the Principles and Practice of Dental Nursing is the recognised qualification for those who want to become GDC-registered dental nurses. If you are looking to become a qualified dental nurse, this is the course for you.

Designed to fit around your working life, this course is delivered online with regular assessor visits to your place of work, providing flexible, structured learning with expert guidance and support throughout.

Whether you’re just starting in the sector or already working as a trainee dental nurse, this qualification will give you the knowledge and hands-on skills required to support dentists, hygienists, and patients in a clinical setting.

Why Choose This Course?

✔ GDC-Approved Qualification – Leads to professional registration as a dental nurse in the UK. See HERE for approval information.
✔ Flexible Online Delivery – Study around your schedule with structured remote learning.
✔ Assessor Workplace Support – Receive personalised, in-practice guidance throughout your course.
✔ Nationally Recognised – Regulated by Ofqual and awarded by NCFE CACHE.
✔ Suitable for New & Current Dental Staff – Ideal for those in employment or placement in a dental setting.
✔ Resources – FREE textbooks and  online resources included.

What Will You Learn?

The diploma covers the full range of knowledge, skills, and behaviours expected of a dental nurse, including:

  • Health and Safety in the Workplace – Following dental practice protocols to maintain a safe environment.
  • Cross-Infection Control & Decontamination – Understanding the importance of infection prevention procedures.
  • Clinical Chairside Support – Preparing instruments, assisting during procedures, and patient reassurance.
  • Patient Care & Communication – Supporting patients before, during, and after treatment.
  • Radiography & Record Keeping – Working with dental imaging and maintaining patient confidentiality.
  • Oral Health Promotion – Educating patients on dental hygiene and preventative care.

How Is It Delivered?

This programme is designed for maximum flexibility with robust support:

  • Online Learning – Access to our eLearning platform for independent study, quizzes, and resources. Click HERE for a module example.
  • Workplace Assessor Visits – Regular visits from a qualified assessor to review progress and carry out observations.
  • On-the-Job Application – Learn in your real working environment, applying knowledge directly to practice.
  • Professional Tutor Support – One-to-one guidance to keep learners on track and progressing.

The course typically takes 12 months to complete, depending on learner progress and employer support.

By the end of the programme and to become a Dental Nurse, you will achieve the following qualification and 49 credits:

Upon completion learners will be eligible to apply to the General Dental Council as a dental nurse.

To enrol, learners must:

  • Be employed or placed in a dental practice for the duration of the course
  • Be committed to completing online learning and in-practice assessments
  • Have a genuine interest in working in the dental healthcare sector

No prior qualifications are required, but a good standard of English and communication is beneficial.

Upon successful completion, learners can:

✔ Apply for registration with the General Dental Council (GDC)
✔ Progress into roles such as Senior Dental Nurse, Practice Manager, or Oral Health Educator
✔ Move into apprenticeships or higher-level dental qualifications, including dental hygiene and dental therapy

We provide a number of options to support you fund and finance this course. These include:

  • Advanced learner loan – this is a government loan which is not means tested (meaning no financial searches are complete). You pay the loan back via your salary but only when you earn over £27,295 per year. Bursaries are also available to help you with travel and childcare.
  • 12 month payment plan – we can support learners to spread the cost of their training over the 12 month period in equal instalments at 0% interest.
  • Course Fee Money-Back Guarantee – On eligible courses, if you attend, complete the required learning, follow tutor guidance and still do not pass, we will refund your course fee.

Over 10,000 people have begun their clinical career with us.

Our clients include the largest NHS ambulance services, and leading multinational corporations. We have trained thousands of students, helping them to achieve their dreams.

Want to know more?

Complete our short online form for more information about any of our programmes or to find out how we can work with your organisation to develop your employees

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