A U.K. dental firm has launched a 250,000 pound ($402,000 U.S.) apprenticeship program to train dental nurses.
Genix Healthcare is the first dental firm to launch such a large-scale program, according to the company. The program will be rolled out over the next 18 months and aims to recruit more than 100 trainee dental nurses.
The company said it set up the program to address the shortage of highly trained dental nurses and encourage young people to pursue a career in the dental profession.
Genix Healthcare owns 22 clinics in the U.K. and plans to expand its business with the help of the apprenticeship scheme. It will provide comprehensive training and support for the trainees and will take candidates to a level 3 qualification.
The program will be run in conjunction with City Training Services and will include training in customer services and working in a practice. Candidates will then have the option to move onto an advanced apprenticeship in dental nursing, which will involve working in a surgery and developing clinical skills during an 18-month period.
