By Bethan Jones, DCT2 in Orthodontics, Swansea

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The early career day organised by the British Orthodontic Society (BOS) Training Grades Group (TGG), is aimed at dental graduates who wish to pursue a career in orthodontics or find out more about this unique specialty. The course provides information about the recruitment process for specialty and post-CCST training, from a consultant and candidate perspective.

On Friday 11 November 2022, the meeting was held at the Jurys Inn in Sheffield, where over 40 delegates gathered from various stages of dental training, including foundation trainees, core trainees and general dental practitioners. The day commenced with an introduction and welcome from Robert Conville and Mohamed Hania, both current TGG committee members. Multiple talks were organised into the busy schedule. Richard Needham spoke about 'National Recruitment: Applying and Preparing for the interview', which included an overview of the timeline for application. Tom Frawley provided an insight into the clinical component and Hanieh Javidi outlined the academic component of the orthodontic training programme. A lecture that focused on the self-assessment form which is used during the application process and how to score well on your portfolio was extremely helpful and clearly delivered by Hayley Llandro.

An invaluable insight into orthodontics and an opportunity to engage with other delegates who share a common goal

Throughout the day, it was interesting to learn about the variety of routes taken into orthodontic training by current specialty registrars (StRs). An interactive session run by current trainees at Birmingham, Sabrina Pahal and Malaaika Al-Koky, provided an insight into the application process and the opportunity to answer many questions. Life as an StR and post-CCST in orthodontics was delivered through the eyes of current post-CCSTs, Robert Conville and Mohamed Hania. It was interesting to learn how the structured timetable can vary depending on the location of training but usually comprises of multiple clinical sessions (new patient and treatment) with allocated time for teaching and the research component of the programme. They explained how most training posts are based at both a university and district general hospital which increases experience and learning amongst a range of colleagues. Amar Hassan, a current StR in Liverpool, provided a useful presentation on CV building and interview advice after recently completing the competitive selection process himself.

The day concluded with round table discussions involving the presenters from the day, which provided delegates with an informal opportunity to ask any questions. Time was further spent developing an understanding into the portfolio and interview stations, whilst taking on board tips and tricks ready for the application process.

In summary, the meeting organised twice yearly by the BOS provides an invaluable insight into orthodontics and an opportunity to engage with other delegates who share a common goal in considering a career within this dental specialty. I want to take this opportunity to thank the BOS TGG for organising this event and would highly recommend this day to anyone interested in orthodontics.