GDC seeks views on new approach to dental education

14 September 2010

A NEW approach to dental training has been set out by the GDC which focuses on quality patient care and professional standards.

The council has drawn up a fresh set of learning outcomes for dental qualifications that lead to GDC registration. It’s proposed the document Learning Outcomes will replace both the dentists’ curriculum The First Five Years and the dental care professional curricula Developing the Dental Team.

The GDC has launched a consultation on Learning Outcomes and is seeking the views of various groups including dentists, dental and DCP students, those involved in dental training and education, professional associations and other regulatory bodies.

The GDC said the content of Learning Outcomes was “guided by the priorities of the government White Paper Trust, assurance and safety” which include:

• safety and quality of care for patients
• sustaining, improving and assuring professional standards
• no unnecessary burdens
• UK standards with country-specific flexibility.

The council has focused on four key areas: clinical, communication, professionalism and management and leadership. Learning Outcomes sets out the GDC’s expectations for each different registrant group.

Education committee chairman Kevin O’Brien said: “It’s very important we hear from people involved in all areas of dentistry. The outcomes that have been produced are intended to reflect the knowledge, skills, attitudes and behaviours the registrant must have to practise safely, effectively and professionally in the relevant registration category.

“The aim is to develop a rounded professional who, in addition to being a competent clinician or technician, will have the range of professional skills required to begin working as part of a dental team and be well prepared for independent practice.”

The consultation closes on Friday, December 3, 2010. For more information visit the GDC website here