Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship (Level 3)

Dental Laboratory Apprentice – Level 3 Dental Technician Job Title: Dental Laboratory Apprentice – Level 3 Dental Technician Department: Dental Laboratory Reports to: Laboratory Manager / Clinical Dental Technician / Senior Dental Technician Apprenticeship: Level 3 Dental Technician Employment Type: Apprenticeship / Full-time Job Purpose To undertake structured workplace training and education towards qualification as a Level 3 Dental Technician, developing the knowledge, practical skills and professional behaviours required to work safely and effectively within a dental laboratory. The Apprentice Dental Technician will learn to receive, assess, design, manufacture, finish, quality-check and dispatch dental appliances and laboratory work under appropriate supervision. The role will provide practical experience across fixed and removable prosthodontics, dental materials, digital dentistry and CAD/CAM, quality assurance, infection prevention and control, health and safety, professional conduct and communication. The apprentice will work progressively towards the knowledge, skills and behaviours required for GDC registration as a Dental Technician through the approved education and training programme. Regulatory and Professional Framework The apprentice will be expected to work in accordance with: • General Dental Council (GDC) Standards for the Dental Team. • GDC guidance relating to trainee/student dental technicians. • GDC requirements for education and training leading to registration. • The laboratory's policies, procedures and quality management system. • Relevant legislation relating to health and safety, medical devices, confidentiality, data protection and infection prevention and control. • The requirements of the approved Level 3 Dental Technology qualification and training provider. The GDC confirms that trainee dental technicians may be employed while undertaking a recognised programme leading to GDC registration, but they must receive appropriate training and supervision. A named GDC registrant must take responsibility for their supervision until registration is achieved. ________________________________________ Key Responsibilities 1. Dental Laboratory Practice and Appliance Production The apprentice will develop competence in the complete laboratory workflow, including: • Receiving and registering dental laboratory prescriptions and work. • Checking prescriptions, impressions, models, scans and accompanying information. • Identifying incomplete, unclear or potentially unsafe prescriptions and escalating concerns appropriately. • Preparing and organising laboratory work according to the prescription and laboratory workflow. • Developing practical skills in model and appliance production. • Assisting with the manufacture, finishing, polishing and preparation of dental appliances. • Developing appropriate hand skills and laboratory techniques. • Carrying out work within the limits of competence and level of training. • Completing labora