An Opportunity to share your knowledge with a new Dental Graduate!
We are looking for qualified and experienced dental practitioners and dental practices to become Educational Supervisors (Trainers) starting 01 September 2026 on our Dental Foundation and Dental Therapy Foundation Training schemes across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Winchester, Hampshire and Isle of Wight.
Dental Foundation Training is a programme designed to support newly qualified dental graduates entering NHS Primary Dental Care for the first time and completion of the programme will result in the dentist being awarded a nationally (UK) recognised Certificate of Completion of Dental Foundation Training. Foundation Dentists are appointed to approved training practices for a period of 12 months and are required to attend all the Thames Valley & Wessex weekly day-release educational programme, usually held on Thursdays.
Dental Foundation Training is entirely funded by the NHS. Trainees follow the UK Dental Foundation Training curriculum and are expected to complete regular assessments and a number of written and practical assignments. Educational Supervisors (Trainers) carry out direct observation (DOPS) of trainees and complete assessments and other exercises with the trainee and jointly record these in the e-Portfolio.
Applications for the Dental Foundation Training Scheme have now closed, however we are still accepting applications for the Dental Foundation Therapy Training Scheme.
If you are considering applying as an Educational Supervisor for the 2025/2026 Dental Foundation Training Scheme, will be released in the Autumn, however, in the meantime, we recommend that you read the Educational Supervisor Guidelines.
GDP Appraisals
Appraisal is a requirement of both the National Performers List Regulations and the General Dental Services Contract, so participation will allow you to meet your contractual obligations.
An Appraisal provides a chance to focus on your career progression and build a tailored Personal Development Plan for your 5-year CPD cycle. It also allows an opportunity to reflect on your health and wellbeing and to take stock by talking through achievements and challenges with an experienced dental professional.
It is not an assessment nor a performance management tool, however Educational Supervisors are expected to evidence satisfactory participation in the Thames Valley & Wessex appraisal process.
You will receive 3 hours of certificated verifiable CPD for your appraisal meeting and it is entirely free to take part. If you would like to take up this opportunity, please email england.dental.southeast@nhs.net and put GDP Appraisal in the subject
Educator Development
On appointment, Educational Supervisors will be expected to :
1) Attend the 4 day Developing Dental Educators Course if not previously completed
2) Attend some of the DFT’s day release sessions on the scheme to which you are appointed
3) Attend a minimum of 14 sessions (half-days) of Thames Valley & Wessex Dental Office meetings and activities to support the trainee and the scheme.