NZDA Vocational Training Courses

The New Zealand Dental Association (NZDA) recognises that strong dental practices rely on knowledgeable, skilled and well-supported teams. Dental assistants, practice administrators and all other team members play an important role in the safe, efficient and effective delivery of dental care. Their contribution supports patients, clinicians and the wider practice, helping dental teams work well and provide a positive patient experience.

NZDA’s vocational training courses are designed to build the practical knowledge, workplace capability and role-specific skills needed within the New Zealand dental practice environment. The programmes also provide a structured approach to staff development, helping to build knowledge, skills and capability across the dental practice team.

Students who successfully complete their course will receive formal NZDA recognition of their learning and achievement.

Vocational Training Courses

Enrolment

Enrolments for the NZDA Certificate in Dental Assisting and the NZDA Certificate in Dental Practice Administration are open from November to January, with the course commencing in February.

To enrol, students must:

• be employed by an NZDA Member for a minimum of 20 hours per week at the time of enrolment and throughout the course
• have a supervising dentist who is an NZDA member and is willing and able to support their progress and take responsibility for the required workplace assessments
• have access to a reliable computer or mobile device and internet connection.

The supervising dentist retains overall responsibility for supporting the student’s progression through the course and ensuring completion of the required workplace assessments.

Course Support

The NZDA Vocational Training Courses are coordinated by the NZDA Vocational Training Team based at NZDA House in Ellerslie, Auckland.

More Questions?
More information about the NZDA vocational training courses can be found on our FAQs page, which answers commonly asked questions about each course.

If you still have questions and would like to discuss these, please contact:

Karen Priddy
Vocational Training Coordinator