PDA Orthodontic Dental Nursing SCQF level 8

Professional Development Awards (PDAs) extend or broaden professional or vocational skills and are linked to National Occupational Standards.

The PDA in Orthodontic Dental Nursing at SCQF level 8 is aimed at dental nurses and covers the depth and breadth of knowledge required to work effectively in a dental environment that delivers orthodontic treatment.

This qualification is available through colleges, training providers and some employers. It has been designed to be delivered as a taught course and will normally be available as a combination of workshops and self-directed study.

The PDA in Orthodontic Dental Nursing at SCQF level 8 has been developed in partnership with educationalists from the dental sector.

It will help employers meet skills gaps and provide continuing professional development for staff, while learners will gain knowledge and skills needed for progression in the workplace.

This PDA provides progression routes to further study (see Progression).

This qualification is for registered dental nurses who are seeking to extend their clinical duties within their professional scope of practice, as defined by the General Dental Council (GDC).

Access

Access to this PDA is at the discretion of the centre. Candidates should be registered with the GDC. Candidates undertaking this PDA may require to have been disclosed under the PVG scheme (2011), standard or enhanced.

The content of the PDA is aligned with the National Occupational Standards for Dental Nursing.

Learners will have the opportunity to progress to the HND in Dental Nursing.

Specific subject expertise is required to deliver this qualification which is detailed in the Group Award Specification (Arrangements Document). To gain approval for this qualification centres should complete and submit a Qualification Approval Application Form. The Business Development Team can provide guidance in completing this form.

Assessors and verifiers must be able to meet SQA's general requirements as outlined in the guide to approval.

The Unit specification gives detailed information on the Evidence Requirements and approaches to assessment for the Unit.

Assessment will allow candidates to enhance their own practice. The use of reports and projects is crucial to this.

Group Award code: GJ72 48

The PDA in Orthodontic Dental Nursing at SCQF level 8 consists of one mandatory double-credit Unit:

Dental Nursing: Orthodontics H0BN 35

For further information on this qualification please refer to the Group Award Specification.