Yeovil College Leads the Way in Tackling Dental Technician Skills Shortage
Yeovil College is helping to transform the future of dental technology education, developing an innovative apprenticeship pathway that is producing the next generation of highly skilled Dental Technicians.
Launched just four years ago in response to a national decline in Dental Technician numbers, and as part of the flagship West of England Institute of Technology, the programme combines academic study with practical workplace training, creating work-ready professionals equipped with both traditional technical expertise and the latest digital technologies.
Drawing on its extensive experience in apprenticeships and digital engineering, Yeovil College worked closely with industry partners and received support from the NHS to design a new approach to training Dental Technicians. Graduates of the programme are eligible to register with the General Dental Council (GDC) and become part of the professional dental team.
The College’s flexible and blended delivery model has enabled learners from across the South of England to access specialist training, attracting students from Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Dorset, Hampshire, Avon and beyond. Without this innovative approach, many aspiring Dental Technicians would have had limited access to the profession.
To maximise opportunities for both new entrants and existing dental laboratory employees, Yeovil College has developed both a Level 3 apprenticeship programme and an Open University Foundation Degree. Plans are also underway to introduce a Level 6 qualification, creating a clear progression route for those looking to advance their careers further.
The College is also exploring future collaborations with Health Sciences University in Bournemouth to support the launch of a new Clinical Dental Technician programme from 2027.
The success of the Yeovil College model is now being recognised nationally. Education providers in London, Birmingham and Sunderland have announced plans to launch similar programmes, building on the blueprint first developed in Somerset.
This year, Yeovil College will welcome 46 students onto its Dental Engineering programmes, a significant milestone in helping to address a critical workforce shortage and secure the future of the profession.
Mark BoltoN, Principal & CEO, Yeovil College, said:
“Dental Technicians play a vital role in patient care, yet the profession often operates behind the scenes. We are incredibly proud that Yeovil College has been able to develop an innovative training model that is not only supporting employers across the South of England but is now influencing provision nationally. The growth of our programmes demonstrates the demand for high-quality technical education and the importance of strong employer partnerships.”
The College has praised the employers who have embraced the programme and invested in apprentices, helping to create opportunities for future generations of Dental Technicians.
“The success of this programme would not be possible without the commitment of employers who continue to support apprentices and believe in the future of the profession. Their investment is helping to secure the long-term sustainability of this vital sector.”
As Yeovil College continues to expand its provision, it remains committed to addressing regional and national skills shortages through innovative, employer-led education that delivers real outcomes for learners, employers and industry.