Dental vocational training: some aspects of the selection process in the South East of England

Abstract

To explore aspects of the dental vocational training (VT) selection process. Thirty-five vocational dental practitioners (VDPs) and each of their trainers. The descriptive analysis of the VT year as experienced by these subjects has been previously described. Using a semi-structured interview format, the participants were interviewed once the prospective VDPs had secured a VT position. The interview transcript data were subject to a constant comparative analysis and a model of the typical selection experience was developed. The selection experience of the partnership that best fits the model is presented and where appropriate this is compared to the other VT partnerships. VDPs favoured practices close to their homes. A degree of formality within a pleasant atmosphere would result in an offer being accepted. For the trainer, again a local applicant was favoured, but above all else the prospective VDP had to fit into the practice team. The VT selection experience is not an easy one for VDPs - neither is it for trainers. The more effort participants put into the selection process, the more they are likely to achieve what they want. This is true not only for prospective VDPs finding a practice of their choice, but also for trainers finding a VDP who will become a successful member of the team.