Learning outcomes review

The GDC commenced a review of the learning outcomes applicable to the dental team in 2022. These outcomes are detailed in  Preparing for Practice which is the current document against which education providers must base their programmes.

The review of the learning outcomes culminated in a new framework being developed which was open to public consultation from October 2022 to January 2023. Following valuable feedback from stakeholders and dental professionals, we have published the consultation outcome report

The Safe Practitioner: A framework of behaviours and outcomes for dental professional education

The newly agreed curriculum, The Safe Practitioner: A framework of behaviours and outcomes for dental professional education, will take effect from September 2025. The revised learning outcomes and behaviours for each profession can be downloaded below:

• Clinical Dental Technician
• Dentist
• Dental Hygienist
• Dental Nurse
• Dental Technician
• Dental Therapist
• Orthodontic Therapist

To learn more about the learning outcome review process and how future reviews will be conducted, please see our Learning Outcomes Review Process.

Transition to the new curriculum

Engagement with education providers will commence in February 2024. Providers will be asked to complete transition documents to explain how they will move onto The Safe Practitioner framework and support will be provided by the Education Quality Assurance Team.

If you have any questions about the transition plans or the support that can be provided, please contact the Education Quality Assurance team.