Aspects of the dental vocational training experience in the South East of England

Abstract

To determine aspects of the 'lived experience' of dental vocational training (VT) for vocational dental practitioners (VDPs) and their trainers. A qualitative study: semi-structured interviews were conducted with the participants halfway through VT and once the VT year had been completed. Two consecutive cohorts of 13 and 22 VDPs and their trainers. The experience of VT for the VDPs and their trainers is presented together with a model of VDP progression through the VT year. VT is a success for VDPs and their trainers. Not one VDP would have wanted to enter general practice without VT. With very few exceptions the trainers considered VDPs capable of independent practice, post VT. Trainers were considered as positive role models by their VDPs. VT facilitates the transition of novice dentists into competent practitioners.