> Pre University
Pathway to Dentistry Course
A 2-Day Introduction to the World of Dentistry Plus One Week of Work Experience for Aspiring Students.
Next course taking place 11th & 12th July 2026
The Complete Dental University Preparation Course for Aspiring Dentists
Are you considering a career in dentistry?
Getting into dental school is highly competitive. Universities are looking for more than excellent grades – they want applicants who can demonstrate commitment to the profession, understand the realities of dentistry, and possess the communication, professionalism and practical skills required to succeed.
The Pathway to Dentistry Course has been specifically designed to help aspiring dentists strengthen their university applications, gain practical experience, develop confidence, and make informed decisions about their future careers.
Whether you are a GCSE student, sixth form student, gap year applicant or graduate considering dentistry, this comprehensive programme provides valuable insight into the profession and the dental school application process.
Book your place today and take the first step towards becoming a dentist.
Experience Life as a Dentist Before You Apply to Dental School
The Pathway to Dentistry Course has been designed for aspiring dentists who want to gain a genuine understanding of the profession before applying to university. Whether you're already committed to a career in dentistry or still exploring your options, this unique programme provides an invaluable opportunity to experience the realities of modern dental practice.
You'll learn directly from experienced dental professionals and university lecturers, gain hands-on experience performing a range of common dental procedures, and develop a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed as both a dental student and future clinician.
This course is split into two parts:
Part 1: A 2-day Introduction to Dentistry course involving interactive learning, hands on workshops, and 2 interview sessions.
Part 2: An optional 1-week dental work experience placement offering the opportunity to shadow a dentist at a practice near you.
Part 1: 2-Day Introduction to Dentistry Course
Our immersive two-day course offers a practical and engaging introduction to the world of dentistry. Through a combination of hands-on workshops, interactive learning and expert-led teaching, you'll gain insight into the skills, knowledge and professionalism required within the dental profession.
Throughout the course, you'll have the opportunity to:
Learn from experienced dentists and current university lecturers
Develop practical clinical skills in a simulated learning environment
Explore common dental procedures and techniques
Gain insight into patient care and communication
Understand the dental school application process
Ask questions and hear first-hand experiences from dental professionals and current students
For students preparing to apply to dental school, the course also includes dedicated interview preparation sessions. You'll take part in realistic interview scenarios and receive personalised feedback from experienced interviewers, university lecturers and current dental students to help build confidence and improve performance.
The practical sessions include amalgam and composite fillings, root fillings, tooth anatomy, scaling teeth and basic hygiene procedures, charting, suturing, and taking impressions.
A Certificate in Pre-Dental Training from Tipton Training will be rewarded to all students on completion of the course.
Locations & Dates
Manchester:
11th & 12th July 2026
Duration
2 Days
Timings
10am - 4pm
Course Fee
£995 inc. VAT
Secure your place
6-12-month 0% interest finance plans available
Book now
Book now
Part 2: 1-Week Work Experience
Once students have completed the 2 day course, we also offer an optional 1-week of work experience.
We will match you with a local dental practice where you will have the opportunity to shadow a dentist and observe real patient care. This placement is a valuable addition to your university application and provides first-hand exposure to the profession.
We strive to arrange placements for all participants, but availability depends on local practices. If a placement cannot be arranged, we will provide alternative guidance on securing dental work experience.
Who Is This Course Suitable For?
This programme is ideal for:
GCSE students considering dentistry
Sixth form students preparing university applications
College students
Gap year applicants
Graduate-entry dental applicants
International students interested in UK dental schools
Whether you are certain about pursuing dentistry or still exploring your options, this course will provide valuable insights, practical experience, and expert guidance to help you make informed decisions about your future.
It’s ideal for students who want to strengthen their university applications, gain hands-on experience, and develop key skills needed for a successful career in dentistry.
No prior experience is needed, just enthusiasm and an interest to learn more about what dentistry entails.
What You'll Learn During the 2-Day Introduction Course
The programme provides a comprehensive introduction to dentistry, helping students explore a career as a dentist while gaining valuable dental work experience and practical clinical skills. Designed to support dental school applications, the course develops students' understanding of the profession, strengthens interview performance, and provides hands-on experience that helps prepare them for a future career in dentistry.
Day 1: Introduction to Dentistry, Clinical Skills & Interview Preparation
The first day focuses on introducing students to the dental profession while developing fundamental clinical skills used in everyday practice. Highlights include:
✔ Introduction to dentistry as a profession
✔ NHS and private dentistry overview
✔ Dental school application guidance
✔ Handpiece training exercises, scaling and scanning techniques
✔ Dental examinations and patient assessment
✔ Suturing workshop
✔ Dental school interview preparation & mock interview techniques
Day 2: Tooth Anatomy, Restorative Dentistry & Hands-On Practice
The second day builds upon the foundations established on Day 1 and provides students with further practical experience in some of the most commonly performed restorative dental procedures. Highlights include:
✔ Tooth anatomy and morphology
✔ Amalgam filling techniques
✔ Composite (white) filling techniques
✔ Restorative dentistry practical sessions
✔ Hands-on clinical experience
✔ Continued interview preparation and feedback
✔ Understanding life as a dental student and future dentist
Interview Practice – Mock interviews with expert feedback.
Interactive Learning – Engaging activities that bring dentistry to life.
Unique Experience - Gain a deeper understanding of the field.
Gain Insights - Learn a basic understanding of routine procedures.
Gain Valuable Practical Experience
One of the most unique aspects of the 2-day Pathway to Dentistry Course is the opportunity to gain practical exposure to dentistry.
Students may have the opportunity to:
Develop basic manual dexterity skills
Experience simulated clinical exercises
Explore dental materials and equipment
Observe clinical workflows
Learn about patient-centred care
Understand treatment planning processes
These experiences help students develop a deeper appreciation of the profession before applying to university.
Interview Preparation for Dental School
Many students find the interview stage one of the most challenging parts of the admissions process.
Our 2-day programme helps students develop confidence by exploring:
Multiple Mini Interview (MMI) formats
Communication skills
Ethical scenarios
Professional judgement
Teamwork and leadership questions
Reflection and self-awareness
Students gain a clearer understanding of what admissions tutors are looking for and how to present themselves effectively.
Meet Our Course Lecturers
During the course, you will be taught by one of our experienced lecturers, gaining insights from their years of clinical and teaching expertise.
You will also be supported by current 5th-year dental students, who will guide you throughout the course, answer any questions about university applications, and share first-hand tips on preparing for a successful career in dentistry.
This combination of expert teaching and peer support ensures you get the knowledge, confidence, and guidance needed to take the next steps toward your future in dentistry.
Dr Andy Carragher
LDS RCS, BDS, MClinDent, CPS
Dr Andy Carragher brings a wealth of real-world expertise to his teaching including a 12-year role as Senior Clinical Lecturer in Restorative Dentistry at Liverpool University Dental Hospital, where he taught hundreds of dental students the core skills, clinical techniques, and professional mindset needed to succeed in the field.
Now a Senior Lecturer with Tipton Training, Andy specialises in advanced composite techniques and is uniquely placed to guide aspiring dental students. With his insider knowledge of university-level dentistry education and years of mentoring future dentists, he understands exactly what admissions teams look for—and how to help students stand out from the crowd.
Dr Ash Rayarel
BDS, MFGDP(UK), MSc (Aesthetic and Restorative Dentistry)
Dr Ash Rayarel is a highly experienced clinician and educator with over 30 years in dentistry. He is Clinical Director at Tipton Training, the UK’s largest private postgraduate dental academy, and has been delivering high-quality teaching to dentists across the UK and internationally for over 15 years. Ash also holds a teaching and mentoring role at the University of Manchester Dental Hospital, supporting final-year students as they prepare to enter the profession.
Passionate about education, he has guided thousands of dentists and students, helping them develop the skills, confidence, and insight needed for a successful career in dentistry. His experience in both academic and clinical settings gives aspiring dentists a unique perspective on the pathway into the profession.
Testimonials
Why Choose Tipton Training?
Tipton Training is one of the UK's most respected providers of dental education.
We were the first private dental education provider to achieve Centre Accreditation from the Royal College of Surgeons of England and have supported thousands of dental professionals throughout their careers.
Students benefit from exposure to:
Experienced dentists
Clinical educators
University lecturers
Dental school admissions insight
Real-world clinical environments
Our goal is to help aspiring dentists gain meaningful insight into the profession and maximise their chances of success during the dental school admissions process.
FAQs
Do I need any prior experience to attend the course?
Who is the course aimed at?
Where is the course held?
Who will be leading the course?
What time does the course start and finish each day?
Do I need to bring anything with me?
Will meals be provided during the course?
How does the optional one-week work experience placement work?
Is the work experience placement guaranteed?
How will this course help with my university application?
What kind of interview preparation is included?
Will I receive a certificate at the end of the course?
What should I do if I’m unsure whether dentistry is the right career for me?
How do I sign up for the course?
Are there finance options?
> Contact us
Book or register your interest - just fill in this form
Or contact us on email or by phone:
