Blog

  • Qualification of the month – New Fluoride Varnish Application

    Qualification of the month – New Fluoride Varnish Application

    NEBDN is supporting its course providers by sharing monthly articles named ‘Crowning Courses’, to highlight the Post-Registration qualifications on offer for accreditation. The articles are also useful for qualified dental nurses wanting to progress their careers, or those thinking of becoming a course provider wanting to know more about the qualifications we offer and how the course syllabus works.

    This month’s Crowning Courses article features our new Fluoride Varnish qualification, launching 1 November 2020!

    The course at a glance

    NEBDN course providers offering the Fluoride Varnish qualification can support qualified dental nurses in the progression of their Post-Registration journey.

    The new qualification acts as a natural progression for those who have undertaken NEBDN’s Oral Health Education (OHE) qualification, or it can be taken as a stand-alone course without having to hold the OHE qualification prior to registration.

    The course content

    Information on our Fluoride Varnish qualification or syllabus will be released on our website 1 November following the launch date.

    Exam schedule – no exam

    This is the first NEBDN qualification that is Record of Competence based only, with on-demand registration and award on achievement; allowing course providers and students to work to their own schedule. (Course provider timescales may differ for completion of the RoC.)

    Success stats

    • New vocational qualification
    • Online portfolio RoC based only
    • No written exam
    • On-demand registration and award on achievement – no need to work around NEBDN’s schedule
    • £95 course fee to NEBDN (other Post-Registration qualifications are £195)
    • No accreditation fee for existing course providers (£500 for new applicants)
    • Featured on our course provider search list
    • Currently, we have 6 course providers offering this course following our trial qualification success

    As an awarding organisation, NEBDN offer the most Post-Registration qualifications across the UK in Radiography, Implant, Sedation, Oral Health, Orthodontics, Special Care and Fluoride Varnish. Offering a wider range of qualifications provides flexibility for course providers wanting to expand and grow their businesses, as it allows students to stay within the same course provider practice when moving on to another area of dental nursing.

    Process for accreditation

    For more information, or to apply for accreditation, please contact the accreditation team at accreditation@nebdn.org or telephone us on 01772 429917.

    Benefit of choosing an NEBDN accredited course

    • NEBDN’s long-standing reputation outweighs many competitors, with over 75 years of providing dental nursing qualifications in both pre-registration and post-registration areas.
    • Our primary qualification is recognised by a regulatory body, and as a registered charity we don’t charge any hidden fees or incentives, because our vision is to support the education and development of dental nurses in the UK.
    • All candidates who successfully pass their qualifications are awarded certificates of completion as opposed to certificates of attendance which are of different relevance.
    • Holding accreditation for delivery of qualifications indicates that the standards for education, policies, process and procedures in place, highlight an effective quality management system which is the core foundation of a course provider.
    • An accredited qualification could be more favourable with employers who are aware of the standards required to achieve qualification.

    Costs

    • Accreditation fee for existing course providers – no charge
    • Accreditation fee for new course providers £500
    • Course fee to us £95* per candidate

    *Additional fees to students may apply, subject to each course provider policy and course schedule

    Where can this qualification take me?

    A qualified dental nurse who completes the qualification in Fluoride Varnish Application provides dental nurses with an educational experience in knowledge, critical understanding, intellectual skills, practical skills and personal attitude. This will enable them to provide effective fluoride varnish application within a community-based programme and/or on prescription from an appropriately qualified Dental Care Professional, or as part of a specific patient structured dental health programme.

    How do I register my interest?

    If you are a student wanting to take the NEBDN qualification in Fluoride Varnish Application, please share your interest with your course provider who can email us for accreditation details.

  • NEBDN pays tribute to Janet Goodwin – former Chair of NEBDN

    NEBDN pays tribute to Janet Goodwin – former Chair of NEBDN

    It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Janet Goodwin at home in Blackpool after a long battle with breast cancer.

    Janet began working in dentistry in 1971, and worked in general practice, community, dental hospitals and further education, including roles as Nurse Manager at Leeds Dental Institute and Qualifications Manager at NEBDN, for whom she also volunteered as an examiner and as Chairman – only the second dental nurse to be Chair of NEBDN. She was also a Past President of the Oral Health Foundation, was the first dental nurse to be a member of the General Dental Council and a past Chair of its Standards Review Group, as well as a former Governing Body member of Nugent Care Charity in Liverpool, and a development manager for the Strategic Health Authority. She consulted on management and educational projects with City & Guilds as Chief Examiner, and with Dental Team Qualification in the development and delivery of DCP programmes.

    Kate Kerslake, CEO at NEBDN, commented: “Janet was a warm and caring person and she will be sadly missed. Janet frequently attended NEBDN events offering her expertise and support to dental nurses and fellow professionals and has contributed years of service to NEBDN in her many roles, and for that we are truly grateful.”

    We are very saddened by this news and our thoughts and prayers go out to her family and loved ones.

    *Information provided by BADN.

     

  • Qualification of the month – Orthodontics

    Qualification of the month – Orthodontics

    NEBDN is supporting its course providers by sharing monthly articles named ‘Crowning Courses’, to highlight the Post-Registration qualifications on offer for accreditation. The articles are also useful for qualified dental nurses wanting to progress their careers, or those thinking of becoming a course provider wanting to know more about the qualifications we offer and how the course syllabus works.

    This month’s Crowning Courses article features our Orthodontics qualification.

    The course at a glance

    NEBDN course providers offering the Orthodontics qualification can support qualified dental nurses in the progression of their Post-Registration journey.

    NEBDN’s certificate in Orthodontic Dental Nursing is one of our Post-Registration qualifications aimed at registered dental nurses in specialist practice, where skills and knowledge above general dental nursing training would be advantageous in the workplace.

    The course content

    For more information on our Orthodontics qualification or syllabus click here

    Exam schedule

    Currently NEBDN provide two exam dates a year in March and September for all Post-Registration exams.

    Prior to sitting the exam, candidates are required to complete a work-based assessment portfolio called the Record of Competence, which can now be completed online for ease of use to candidates, course providers and the environment.

    Click here for full exam schedule.

    Success stats
    Third searched for Post-Registration qualification in 2020
    Over 4,000 Orthodontics page visits on our website since January 2020, with over 1,600 course provider searches for the qualification this year.
    • Currently, we have 16 course providers offering this course, and as you can see above, the demand is there for new students to join.

    Following a recent survey to Post-Registration candidates, the below quotes highlighted how candidates feel towards studying their Post-Registration course and if they would consider using another awarding organisation for their Post-Registration qualifications.

    “No. No others are recognised on the same level as an NEBDN qualification.”

    “No, highly recommended NEBDN with it being a national recognised qualification.”

    “Really good course. Straight forward and really informative – I was hesitant to start the qualification due to thinking it may be too hard work, but I have thoroughly enjoyed it!”

    As an awarding organisation, NEBDN offer the most Post-Registration qualifications across the UK in Radiography, Implant, Sedation, Oral Health, Orthodontics and Special Care. Offering a wider range of qualifications provides flexibility for course providers wanting to expand and grow their businesses, as it allows students to stay within the same course provider practice when moving on to another area of dental nursing.

    Process for accreditation
    For more information, or to order an accreditation enquiry pack, please complete the Contact Form and return to the accreditation team at accreditation@nebdn.org or telephone us on 01772 429917.

    Benefit of choosing an NEBDN accredited course
    • NEBDN’s long-standing reputation outweighs many competitors, with over 75 years of providing dental nursing qualifications in both pre-registration and post-registration areas.
    • Our primary qualification is recognised by a regulatory body, and as a registered charity we don’t charge any hidden fees or incentives, because our vision is to support the education and development of dental nurses in the UK.
    • All candidates who successfully pass their qualifications are awarded certificates of completion as opposed to certificates of attendance which are of different relevance.
    • Holding accreditation for delivery of qualifications indicates that the standards for education, policies, process and procedures in place, highlight an effective quality management system which is the core foundation of a course provider.
    • An accredited qualification could be more favourable with employers who are aware of the standards required to achieve qualification.
    • Accredited courses offer guided learning hours and credits – where appropriate these can be transferred to further education, whereas non-accredited courses cannot offer this opportunity.
    • Students can purchase the widely recognised NEBDN pin badge that dates back to 1951!

    Costs
    • Accreditation fee for existing course providers – no charge
    • Accreditation fee for new course providers £500
    • Course fee to us £195* per candidate
    *Additional fees to students may apply, subject to each course provider policy and course schedule

    Where can this qualification take me?
    A qualified dental nurse who is awarded the NEBDN certificate in Orthodontics, will learn a mixture of treatment styles using removable appliances such as wire orthodontic techniques and the use of standard Edgewise systems and functional appliances which are widely used in many specialist practices. This qualification also emphasises the medico-legal aspects of treatment and the importance of good communication between patient and the dental team.

    Successful completion of this qualification will enhance your professional development and provide evidence to employers that you have had thorough training in this specialist area.

    Search for a course provider. 

  • Post-Registration online exam FAQs

    Post-Registration online exam FAQs

    Before the exam

    Where should I be doing my exam?

    In a quiet and clear working environment where you are comfortable to take your examination without being disturbed – this can be at home or in the workplace, however you must use the same device that you used in your preparation session.

    Do I need to do anything else in preparation for my exam?

    No, providing you have downloaded the exam app, completed the tutorial and read and understood all guidance given.

    Do I need to download the exam app again before the exam?

    It is important that you use the same device for the exam that was used during the preparation session. The app will still be on your computer/laptop for the exam. You will only need to download the app once onto your device.

    How do I get back into the app for the exam?

    The app is automatically downloaded onto your desktop. It will remain there from your practice session. You will need to double click on the app icon which will look similar to the image below.

    Once you have double clicked on the app it will automatically open the log in page. Your log in details can be found on the emails sent by assessmentandawards@nebdn.org.

    What time will the exam be?

    Candidate information packs have been sent to course providers with the timetable for your exam. If you are unaware of the start time please contact you course provider directly.

    Do I need to make sure my laptop is plugged into a power source for the exam?

    Yes, you will need to ensure your laptop is plugged into a power source so that it does not lose battery power during the exam.

    Do I need to do the tutorial again?

    You are not required to do the tutorial again. However, it will be available for you to revisit at any time up until 30 minutes before the exam start time.

    My log in details are not working, what should I do?

    Please carefully read the email with your log in details and try to re-type in the ID’s given. Please note that the exam ID, user ID and password are case sensitive. If the log in details do not work after several attempts please contact the team on assessmentandawards@nebdn.org.

    During the exam

    Will NEBDN be there to help me on the day if something goes wrong?

    Don’t panic! We will have a dedicated team available for you to contact on 01772 429917.

    What happens if I lose internet connection when completing the workbook?
    If you lose internet connection during your exam please do not panic!

    Internet connection is required at the beginning and end of the examination. If your internet connection is lost during the exam please continue to answer the questions as normal as the data will still be recorded in the application. Usually after a few minutes your internet connection should reconnect without intervention. If you cannot submit your assessment at the end of your exam you will receive the following error message:

    Click Retry once and if the connection is not successful click Exit. You will then need to reconnect your internet and log back into the exam app. Upon logging in to the app it will automatically submit your assessment.

    Can I go back and complete the tutorial after I have started the exam?
    Once you have started the exam you will be unable to go back and see the tutorial.

    Can I have a pen and paper with me during the exam?
    Yes, candidates are permitted to use a pen and paper during the examination to make notes.

    How will I know how much time I have left?
    In the bottom right hand corner of your screen, the time remaining in the exam will start to count down as soon as you click START.

    How do I finish the exam and submit my answers?
    Once you have finished the exam and are ready to submit your assessment you will need to click on the MENU button. This can be found at the bottom of the screen in the middle. Once you click this you will be given several options. To submit your exam, you will need to click the top button which is FINISH EXAM.

  • Qualification of the month – Oral Health Education

    Qualification of the month – Oral Health Education

    NEBDN is supporting its course providers by sharing monthly articles named ‘Crowning Courses’, to highlight the Post-Registration qualifications on offer for accreditation. The articles are also useful for qualified dental nurses wanting to progress their careers, or those thinking of becoming a course provider and wanting to know more about the qualifications we offer and how the course syllabus works.

    This month’s Crowning Courses article features our Oral Health Education (OHE) qualification.

    The course at a glance
    NEBDN course providers offering the OHE qualification can support qualified dental nurses in the progression of their Post-Registration journey.

    NEBDN’s certificate in OHE is specifically designed to equip a dental nurse wishing to develop professionally to become an oral health educator, with the knowledge and skills required to be able to effectively deliver oral health care messages, educate various patient groups and have the ability to adapt information and communication to the specific needs of the patient.

    The course content
    For more information on our OHE qualification or syllabus click here

    Exam schedule
    Currently NEBDN provide two exam dates a year in March and September for all Post-Registration exams.

    Prior to sitting the exam, candidates are required to complete a work-based assessment portfolio called the Record of Competence, which can now be completed online for ease of use to candidates, course providers and the environment. Click here for full exam schedule.

    Success stats
    • Most searched for Post-Registration qualification in 2020 on our website
    • Over 7,000 OHE page visits on our website since January 2020, with over 1,600 course provider searches for the qualification this year.
    • Currently, we have 33 course providers offering this course, but as you can see above, the demand is there for new students to join.

    Following a recent survey to Post-Registration candidates, the below graph shows the percentage of how many candidates felt a Post-Registration course helped towards career development, with 87% of candidates agreeing it provides future opportunities to use it in practice.

    As an awarding organisation, NEBDN offer the most Post-Registration qualifications across the UK in Radiography, Implant, Sedation, Oral Health, Orthodontics and Special Care. Offering a wider range of qualifications provides flexibility for course providers wanting to expand and grow their businesses, as it allows students to stay within the same course provider practice when moving on to another area of dental nursing.

    Process for accreditation
    For more information, or to order an accreditation enquiry pack, please complete the Contact Form and return to the accreditation team at accreditation@nebdn.org or telephone us on 01772 429917.

    Benefit of choosing an NEBDN accredited course
    • NEBDN’s long-standing reputation outweighs many competitors, with over 75 years of providing dental nursing qualifications in both pre-registration and post-registration areas.
    • Our primary qualification is recognised by a regulatory body, and as a registered charity we don’t charge any hidden fees or incentives, because our vision is to support the education and development of dental nurses in the UK.
    • All candidates who successfully pass their qualifications are awarded certificates of completion as opposed to certificates of attendance which are of different relevance.
    • Holding accreditation for delivery of qualifications indicates that the standards for education, policies, process and procedures in place, highlight an effective quality management system which is the core foundation of a course provider.
    • An accredited qualification could be more favourable with employers who are aware of the standards required to achieve qualification.
    • Accredited courses offer guided learning hours and credits – where appropriate these can be transferred to further education, whereas non-accredited courses cannot offer this opportunity.
    • Students can purchase the widely recognised NEBDN pin badge that dates back to 1951!

    Costs
    • Accreditation fee for existing course providers – no charge
    • Accreditation fee for new course providers £500
    • Course fee to us £195* per candidate
    *Additional fees to students may apply, subject to each course provider policy and course schedule

    Where can this qualification take me?
    A qualified dental nurse who is awarded the NEBDN certificate in OHE will be able to take a more active role in the promotion of oral health and work with patients to help prevent oral disease. You will be responsible for motivating and educating patients to make positive changes to their oral health care routine, and help patients change their behaviour and understand the causes of dental disease.

    Undertaking this qualification will also help to develop your communication skills, which is essential for delivering oral health education and being an effective educator.

    Search for a course provider 

     

     

     

     

  • Special Recognition Awards 2020 – call for nominations now open!

    Special Recognition Awards 2020 – call for nominations now open!

    Do you know someone who has made a major impact on:
    ▪ Contribution to dental nursing developments
    ▪ Contribution to dental nurse training and education
    ▪ Contribution to NEBDN’s work

    If you do, then please join us in nominating someone for a Special Recognition Award!

    What is a Special Recognition Award?
    A Special Recognition Award is for individuals who have demonstrated dedication, outstanding service and commitment to NEBDN and/or the education and training of dental nurses through involvement and achievement at a national or UK level.

    The award may recognise a specific single achievement (e.g. for a specific project) or achievements over a significant period of time (e.g. a significant contribution for a number of years).

    Criteria
    To be considered for a Special Recognition Award, an individual will need to have achieved one of the following roles, being or having been actively involved:
    ▪ Contribution to dental nursing developments
    ▪ Contribution to dental nurse training and education
    Or
    Given more than five years’ service to NEBDN as a volunteer.

    How to nominate?
    Three awards will be given in total, one nomination from each category.
    For a nomination form or further information on how to nominate, please email SRA@nebdn.org

    The closing date for nominations is 18 September 2020.

  • Online assessment (COVID-19) update #10

    Online assessment (COVID-19) update #10

    Following on from a successful online written examination for the National Diploma in July, we are now working to offer online exams for the next set of 2020 Post-Registration and National Diploma qualifications. This includes the September Post-Registration exams, upcoming online OSCE and the November Diploma written exam.

    Online exam dates:
    • Post-Registration exams will take place on 11 September 2020
    • National Diploma OSCEs will take place over multiple dates as follows: 18, 19, 25 and 26 September 2020
    • National Diploma written exam will take place on 7 November 2020

    We will shortly be sharing further information with course providers and candidates about;
    • How this will operate
    • Technical requirements
    • Details regarding the opportunity for candidates to test the system in advance of the exam

    Record of Competence (RoC)
    For candidates due to sit Post-Registration exams in September 2020, we have previously communicated the extended deadline to course providers to return the completed RoC paperwork to NEBDN as 28 February 2021. This will mean that achievement of the qualification will now rely on when we receive the completed RoC, following a pass in the September exam.

    Record of Experience (RoE)
    For candidates due to sit the Diploma written exam in November 2020, we have previously communicated the extended deadline to course providers to return the completed RoE paperwork to NEBDN as 31 December 2020. Candidates that need more time completing their RoE due to exceptional circumstances should speak to their course provider to discuss the options. This is to ensure that candidates stand the best chance of being prepared for the OSCE examination.

    Deferrals
    We acknowledge that at the moment times are uncertain, and candidates may struggle to complete their RoE/RoC. Therefore, we have agreed to waive the deferral fee for any candidates who need to defer their examination from the Post-Registration September 2020 exams or National Diploma November 2020 exam. If you wish to defer your exam, please speak to your course provider.

    Any further queries must be discussed directly with your course provider, as NEBDN is not able to advise on personal issues or matters. Your course provider will be able to support you further and we wish all our candidates the best of luck in their upcoming exams!

  • Online assessment (COVID-19) update #9

    Online assessment (COVID-19) update #9

    Well done to all 823 candidates and support teams involved in NEBDN’s first online exam yesterday. We are pleased to report that the management of the online exam was a huge success!

    You will receive your results on or before 14 August 2020. We will be in touch as to how you will access your results in due course. More information on the next steps including those sitting the online OSCE will follow in the coming weeks once results are issued.

    Please check our news page for further information or follow our social media pages for live updates.

  • Online assessment (COVID-19) update #8

    Online assessment (COVID-19) update #8

    NEBDN Exam Day: 10 of your top questions answered

    1. 1. Do I need to download the app again? – You DO NOT need to redownload the app onto your device. However, you must ensure you are using the same device that you used in your practice session on 10 July.
    2. 2. Where can I find the app? – Click the ‘Start’ button in the bottom left hand corner. Scroll through the apps until you reach the apps that start with the letter N. There you will find NEBDN Maxexam. Click on to this folder and click on to the MaxExam app. This will then launch your log in page.
    3. 3. I haven’t received my log in details, what should I do? – All log in details have now been sent by assessmentandawards@nebdn.org. If you have not received log in details for each session (MCQ and EMQ) from this email address please check your spam or junk folder before contacting us.
    4. 4. Can I do the tutorial again before the exam? – Yes, you can do the tutorial again before the exam starts. You can complete any time after you have received your log in details up to and until 30 minutes before the exam start time. Please be aware this is not mandatory.
    5. 5. Do I need a webcam on 23 July? – No, you do not require a webcam on 23 July.
    6. 6. Will I need to show my ID on 23 July? – Please ensure you have your ID (e.g. passport or driving licence) with you on the exam date as you may be required to present this.
    7. 7. Where can I find all the information about my upcoming exam? – Your course providers should have sent to you a candidate information pack relating to your exam. Please read this candidate information carefully.
    8. 8. Where should I be doing my exam? – In a quiet and clear working environment where you are comfortable to take your examination without being disturbed – this can be at home or in the workplace, however you must use the same device that you used in your practice session on 10 July.
    9. 9. Do I need to do anything else in preparation for my exam? – No, providing you have downloaded the exam app, completed the tutorial and read and understood all guidance given.
    10. 10. Will NEBDN be there to help me on the day if something goes wrong? – Don’t panic! We will have a dedicated team available for you to contact on 01772 429917.
  • Qualification of the month – Radiography

    Qualification of the month – Radiography

    NEBDN is supporting its course providers by sharing monthly articles named ‘Crowning Courses’, to highlight the Post-Registration qualifications on offer for accreditation. The articles are also useful for qualified dental nurses wanting to progress their careers, or those thinking of becoming a course provider and wanting to know more about the qualifications we offer and how the course syllabus works.

    This month’s Crowning Courses article is on our Radiography qualification.

    The course at a glance

    NEBDN course providers offering the Radiography qualification can support qualified dental nurses in the progression of their Post-Registration journey. Offering this qualification provides an opportunity for dental nurses to work autonomously under the direction of the clinician, whilst working within current UK legislation regarding ionising radiation, allowing them to perform under prescription as an IR(ME)R Operator, taking intra and extra oral radiographs of patients safely.

    The course content

    For more information on our Radiography qualification or syllabus click here

    Exam schedule 

    Currently NEBDN provide two exam dates a year in March and September for all Post-Registration exams.

    Our exam requirements include a work-based assessment portfolio called the Record of Competence, which can now be completed online for ease of use to candidates and course providers.

    Click here for full exam schedule.

    Success stats

    Most searched for Post-Registration qualification in 2019 and most searched for qualification on our course provider search list.
    Over 5,018 Radiography page visits on our website since January 2020, with over 700 course provider searches for the qualification.
    • Currently, we have 26 course providers offering this course, but as you can see above, the demand is there for new students to join.

    As an awarding organisation, NEBDN offer the most Post-Registration qualifications across the UK in Radiography, Implant, Sedation, Oral Health, Orthodontics and Special Care. Offering a wider range of qualifications provides flexibility for course providers wanting to expand and grow their businesses, as it allows students to stay within the same course provider practice when moving on to another area of dental nursing.

    Process for accreditation

    For more information, or to order an accreditation enquiry pack, please complete the Contact Form and return to the quality assurance team at accreditation@nebdn.org or telephone us on 01772 429917.

    Benefit of choosing an NEBDN accredited course

    • NEBDN’s long-standing reputation outweighs many competitors, with over 75 years of providing dental nursing qualifications in both pre-registration and post-registration areas.
    • Our primary qualification is recognised by a regulatory body, and as a registered charity we don’t charge any hidden fees or incentives, because our vision is to support the education and development of dental nurses in the UK.
    • All candidates who successfully pass their qualifications are awarded certificates of completion as opposed to certificates of attendance which are of different relevance.
    • Holding accreditation for delivery of qualifications indicates that the standards for education, policies, process and procedures in place, highlight an effective quality management system which is the core foundation of a course provider.
    • An accredited qualification could be more favourable with employers who are aware of the standards required to achieve qualification.
    • Accredited courses offer guided learning hours and credits – where appropriate these can be transferred to further education, whereas non-accredited courses cannot offer this opportunity.
    • Students can purchase the widely recognised NEBDN pin badge that dates back to 1951!

    Costs

    • Accreditation fee for existing course providers – no charge
    • Accreditation fee for new course providers £500
    • Course fee to us £195*
    *Additional fees to students may apply, subject to each course provider policy and course schedule

    Where can this qualification take me?

    A qualified dental nurse who is awarded the NEBDN certificate in Dental Radiography, will be able to act under prescription as an IR(ME)R operator, in order to safely take intra-oral and extra-oral radiographs of patients. The additional skills acquired, together with the knowledge gained, will enhance your CV and bring benefits to your employer and to patients.