Supporting newly qualified dental therapists into practice: a longitudinal evaluation of a foundation training scheme for dental therapists (TFT)

Key Points Provides an evaluation of a foundation training scheme for dental therapists and includes a longitudinal view of the work experiences of dental therapists. Highlights that dental therapists can feel unprepared for starting work and shows how they benefit from support. Voices concerns regarding the challenge of maintaining therapy skills when carrying out mostly hygiene work in practice. Objectives Focused on the dental therapists foundation training (TFT) scheme run by the Postgraduate Dental Deaneries of Oxford and Wessex (NHS Education South Central – NESC) the objectives were (1) to evaluate the TFT 2010/11 scheme, identifying strengths, areas for development and drawing comparisons with the 2009 evaluation; and (2) to follow-up previous cohorts, reporting current work and retrospective reflections on the scheme. Methods Data were collected from 2010/11 ('current') trainees (n = 10) through group discussion, questionnaire and portfolio extracts. Eleven past-trainees from 2008/09 and 2009/10 took part in a structured telephone interview or responded to questions via e-mail. Results Data from 2011 consolidated that collected earlier. The scheme was highly valued. Current participants thought the scheme should be mandatory and all past-participants would recommend it to others. Trainees attributed an increase in confidence and ability in their clinical skills to participation in TFT. Current trainees' concerns about finding therapy work were echoed in past-participants' post-scheme employment. Conclusions At the point of qualification, trainees do not feel well-prepared for starting work as dental therapists. Opportunity to develop confidence and skills in a supportive environment is a key benefit of the scheme. Maintaining ability in the full range of duties requires continued use of skills and the opportunity to do this remains an ongoing challenge.