Dental Foundation Training for dentists
Dental Foundation Training (DFT) is a postgraduate training programme that supports newly qualified dentists as they move from dental school into independent professional practice.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, foundation training is generally required for dentists wishing to work in NHS general dental practice in future. Scotland operates its own equivalent Dental Vocational Training programme. Applicants may be able to apply to more than one scheme, subject to the relevant eligibility and recruitment requirements. All home UK graduates should be able to access a space on a scheme, as part of the List A arrangements, providing requirements are met.
Trainees will receive a salary paid by the NHS and the hosting practice is compensated for their supervision.
Eligibility and applications
Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements for their chosen scheme. These generally include holding a recognised dental qualification and meeting the relevant General Dental Council (GDC) registration requirements by the specified dates. Right-to-work requirements also apply.
Recruitment is run nationally. It is competitive and application processes and deadlines vary between Scotland and the rest of the UK.
Dental Foundation Training – England, Wales and Northern Ireland Dental Vocational Training – NHS Education for Scotland