We are delighted to welcome our new trainee dental nurse, Harriet, to the Arden House Team. Harriet joined Arden House in May and has already proved herself to be helpful, friendly and a quick learner. Harriet knows all about 5 star customer service and has spent the last few years sailing round the world as chief stewardess working on board luxury yachts. She wanted to settle down on land and has chosen to start a new career as a trainee dental nurse.
Katie Glancy, our practice manager, caught up with Harriet to find out how she’s been getting on.
Katie: Why did you decide to become a dental nurse?
Harriet: I’ve always had an interest in teeth and my own oral health. It was my sister-in-law who’s a dental nurse in Sweden who really got me interested in the profession and planted the seed in my head to become a dental nurse myself.
Katie: Can you explain to our readers how long it takes to become a dental nurse and what the training involves?
Harriet: I am studying the NEBDN (National Examining Board for Dental Nurses) syllabus and that takes 18 months. This involves attending class one full day a month, along with lots of home study and a work placement here at Arden House for a minimum of two days a week. The course also requires me to complete a Record of Experience of all my day to day tasks at the practice. At the end of the course there is a written exam followed by a practical exam.
Katie: How have you found your first few weeks at Arden House?
Harriet: I’ve really enjoyed my first month at Arden House. Everyone’s been very welcoming and I’ve already learned so much!
Katie: What are you most looking forward to during your training?
Harriet: I’ve looking forward to learning from all the experienced Arden House staff and to gain enough experience and confidence to one day give the best chairside support to the dentists.
Katie: What would be your advice for someone wanting to train to be a dental nurse?
Harriet: I’m still at a very early stage of my training, but hard work and dedication will definitely help you along the way. Being interested in dentistry in general is a must and a great eye for detail is a big plus. And an interest in working with people!
Katie: What do you like to do in your spare time when you aren’t learning everything there is to know about dentistry and Arden House?
Harriet: I love spending time with my family. I love the outdoors and I try to get out on a hike whenever I can. I also really enjoy horse riding, going to the gym and reading crime novels.
Thanks Harriet. We’re really enjoying working with you and we look forward to following your journey over the coming months and years!
