Management of dentist training has recently been devolved to HEE local teams (was previously run by a couple of teams for the wider organisation). Dentists assessment is now being made more robust → starting to do an 'RCP' (Review of Competence to Progress). The RCP process is being modelled on the trainee doctors ARCP process, however postgraduate dental training for newly qualified dentists - Dental Foundation Training (DFT) - is a one-year programme, so there is only one review.
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The Training Practices are attached to a a Foundation Scheme , and in charge of each Scheme is a Training led by a Training Programme Director (TPD) [ East of England has 7 geographically-based schemes.]. Dental Foundation Training lasts for one year, and during this period the FD attends 30 days of Day Release Course (DRC) at the Scheme centre, this usually takes place on a Friday. The Course is divided into three terms. During those weeks when the Day Release Course is being attended, the FD works in the practice for only 28 hours.
Each FD has an on-line e-portfolio, which is used as an educational aid throughout the year. On a regular basis the FD records achievements and concerns, and describes and analyses events that have occurred recently. The Trainer works with the FD and the Portfolio to produce action plans and regular assessments of development.
On completion one year of Dental Foundation Training, FDs are eligible to for an NHS Performers List number; this enables them to treat NHS patients.
Dentists who apply to a LETB for competency assessment, in lieu of completing training in a deanery approved training scheme, will need to demonstrate that they have achieved the competencies set out in Form GDS1; this includes a requirement to have gained experience of working in the NHS and to have an understanding of NHS rules and regulations in respect of dental treatment. Need to get clarification on this last paragraph.
(Source - HEE East of England)
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