At Tempdent, we celebrate how apprenticeships not only equip individuals with the skills and experience to begin or enhance their dental careers, but also build the invaluable skills for life that sustain long-term growth and success.
This year’s National Apprenticeship Week theme ‘Skills For Life’ provides the perfect opportunity to introduce Ellie R, Tempdent Workplace Assessor, who has demonstrated how an apprenticeship not only serves as a career springboard, but sets the foundation for a varied and inspiring career in dentistry.
We first met Ellie when she came to us as an apprentice Dental Nurse…
A journey that began at Welldene Dental Clinic, Ashford
Ellie’s path into the dental sector began at Welldene Dental Clinic in Ashford, where she worked as a receptionist. Watching her sister thrive as a Dental Nurse, Ellie felt inspired to follow in her footsteps.
Additionally, a colleague who was already enrolled in Tempdent’s Dental Nursing Apprenticeship encouraged Ellie to join. This recommendation, coupled with her curiosity about the clinical side of dentistry, led her to take the leap.
The blend of on-the-job training and formal education helped Ellie develop foundational skills, setting her up for a successful career, initially as a Dental Nurse, but opening up many opportunities beyond that.
The power of apprenticeships
Ellie found the apprenticeship to be the perfect way to build her knowledge and confidence while working in a dental practice.
“I think apprenticeships are an amazing way to work and train at the same time,” Ellie says. “The best part of my apprenticeship was learning new skills and being supported by my portfolio assessor, who was always there when I needed her.”
These skills for life - such as time management, communication, and clinical expertise - became the foundation for Ellie’s success and empowered her to continue growing professionally.
From Learner to Mentor
Ellie’s positive experience with her Tempdent Tutor Assessor inspired her to follow a similar path after completing her apprenticeship. With her qualification and practical experience under her belt, Ellie joined Tempdent as a Workplace Assessor, ready to support the next generation of apprentices.
“I always knew I wanted to do assessing after I qualified,” Ellie shares. “I saw the job advertised, and since I had such a good experience learning with Tempdent, I jumped at the chance to join the company.”
In her new role, Ellie visits dental practices to support Tempdent apprentices, conduct observations, and provide valuable feedback.
Giving back to the apprenticeship community
Ellie’s own apprenticeship has shaped how she approaches her role as a Workplace Assessor. Having been through the apprenticeship process herself, she understands the challenges learners face and strives to provide the same encouragement she once received.
“I feel as though I understand a lot of what is required from the learner as I have been there myself,” Ellie explains. “I enjoy going out and meeting the learners, guiding them in the right direction, and giving feedback. It’s nice to see them feel they have achieved something.”
By sharing her experience and expertise, Ellie helps apprentices develop their own skills for life - skills that will not only support their immediate career goals but also open doors to future opportunities within dentistry.
Building a brighter future
Ellie’s journey demonstrates the long-term value of apprenticeships in creating meaningful careers. Through her experience, she gained practical skills, clarity about her career path, and a passion for mentoring others. Her story perfectly aligns with the theme of this year’s National Apprenticeship Week, showcasing how the skills gained through apprenticeships can lead to lasting personal and professional growth.
If you’re ready to gain skills for life and explore a career in dentistry, talk to us about our apprenticeship programmes, or view the course brochures here.
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