Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2026: building Scotland’s dental nursing workforce

Scottish Apprenticeship Week 2026: building Scotland’s dental nursing workforce

Scottish Apprenticeship Week, 2 to 6 March 2026, celebrates how apprenticeships support individuals, employers and Scotland’s economy. This year’s theme, ‘working in Scotland’, shines a light on the real impact apprenticeships have across the country.

At NES, the dental directorate is marking the week by highlighting the modern apprenticeship in dental nursing, a key route into a professional and rewarding career.

The programme provides the first step in a structured career pathway, equipping apprentices with the knowledge, skills and behaviours required for registration with the General Dental Council and practice as a dental nurse.

Delivered annually through a blended learning model, the programme combines structured teaching and assessment with practical, workplace experience. Employers provide on-the-job supervision and clinical exposure, while NES delivers off-the-job learning through its five Dental Education Centres in Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness.

This flexible approach reduces geographical barriers and enables participation from across Scotland. Apprentices can learn within their own communities while gaining a nationally recognised qualification.

There are currently 85 dental nurse apprentices employed in general dental practices and NHS Boards across Scotland, undertaking this fully funded ‘earn as you learn’ route.

By investing in apprenticeships, Scotland is not only supporting individuals into meaningful employment, it is strengthening the sustainability of the dental workforce for the future.

Find out more via Turas https://learn.nes.nhs.scot/33932

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