The terminology for ‘vocational training’ is increasingly being changed to ‘dental foundation training’. Usage of both terms may vary across the UK. This section therefore uses both terms to reflect the current situation. In the NHS across the UK, Vocational Dental Practitioners (VDPs)/Foundation Dentists (FDs) spend a year in approved practices, working on standard contracts undertaking training.
VT/FT introduces new graduates to general practice and gives you a protected environment to work in for a year. Each VDP/FD has a trainer dentist in the same practice. The trainer provides the VDP/FD with supervision and help whenever it is needed, as well as meeting with the VDP/FD for regular tutorials. The trainer takes responsibility for the acts and omissions of the VDP/FD under GDS Regulations but the VDP/FD, as a registered dentist, will be liable for their conduct and patient wellbeing.
VT/DFT advisers inspect practices and advise deaneries on the appointment of trainers. Trainers then appoint and employ the VDPs/FDs and pay them. The NHS reimburses the salary and National Insurance contributions to the trainer, whilst also paying the trainer an allowance for time spent giving training support. The practice is funded by the NHS to cover the treatments provided.
Aims
The aims of VT/FT are to:
introduce you to general dental practice
identify personal strengths and weaknesses and balance them through a planned programme of training
enable you to practise and improve skills free from undue financial pressure
promote peer and self-review
develop the ethos of professional education, training, self-evaluation and audit as a continuing process throughout your working life
include a variety of training opportunities for newly qualified dentists in different settings
provide flexible training pathways towards further development and specialisation
give an overview of dentistry in all areas of practice.
Further information
The BDA's Final Year Guide gives much more detailed information about VT/FT. You can also read our pages about becoming a newly qualified dentist.
