Scottish Vocational Qualification in Dental Nursing

Skills for Health are undertaking a review of the Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ) in Dental Nursing at Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) Level 7. 

Background 

The SVQ in Dental Nursing at SCQF Level 7 when taken with the required knowledge qualification allows registration with the General Dental Council as a Dental Nurse. 

This SVQ is based on the Oral Health (Dental Nursing) National Occupational Standards (NOS). These NOS are also being reviewed to align to the Safe Practitioner Standards for Dental Nurses. Once updated, the SVQ in Dental Nursing at SCQF Level 7 will then be revised accordingly.  

The need  

The need to revise this qualification has arisen following the introduction of new Safe Practitioner Framework, developed by the General Dental Council (GDC). This new framework sets out behaviours and outcomes for dental professional education, which the SVQ must now reflect. 

The SVQ in Dental Nursing at SCQF Level 7 is also a component in the Modern Apprenticeship in Dental Nursing. Skills Development Scotland will be undertaking work to revise this Modern Apprenticeship in Dental Nursing.  

Next steps 

Skills for Health carried out a public consultation which closed on 14 February 2025. If you’d like to stay updated, complete the form below.