Sir, I am writing to discuss my experiences after recently completing General Professional Training (GPT) in the North East since graduating from the University of Manchester in 2015.

Many undergraduates and dentists to my knowledge are not aware of what GPT is or what it offers to new graduates. The majority of jobs available after national recruitment and graduation are one-year foundation posts; however, there are some longer two-year GPT schemes available.

GPT is a two-year longitudinal training programme which encompasses Foundation Training and Dental Core Training Level 1. As of 2017, there are only two remaining GPT schemes available, one in the North East and the other in Yorkshire & Humberside.

Over the two-year post, GPTs spend 50% of their time in a primary care (dental practice) setting and the other 50% in a secondary care (hospital) setting. Essentially, this means trainees spend alternate weeks in practice and hospital.

The hospital proportion was split into two halves:

  1. 1

    The restorative year

  2. 2

    A year split between paediatric dentistry and orthodontics/dental emergency clinic/oral surgery rotations.

I have found many positives to GPT. It has offered a wide exposure to all aspects of dentistry and close supervision from experienced consultants, boosting my practical experience following on from undergraduate level. The expected future GPT pay is 50% FD pay (£31,044), and 50% hospital pay (£36,461), therefore roughly £33,750, which is more than an FD salary. GPT offered separate MFDS study days in addition to FD study days. I believe this further guidance and mentoring allowed me to perform well in MFDS/MJDF examinations, which subsequently has led to me successfully completing MFDS Parts 1 and 2, and being awarded the TC White Medal Award from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow for my performance. Being employed for two years also allowed easier access and continuation of case reports/audits/papers/posters, boosting my overall CV and chances of gaining further hospital posts.

There are of course negatives to any job, and GPT provided a very steep learning curve at the beginning by exposing new graduates to complex procedures that are not usually performed at undergraduate level. A large amount of time was dedicated to note taking and dictation of letters, and due to the split between practice and hospital, patients sometimes have to wait longer to have their treatment due to only working every other week.

My overall experience through GPT has been extremely positive. I believe by completing GPT I have gained vast amounts of knowledge and experience in the hospital setting as well as carrying out my foundation training. It has allowed me to build a comprehensive portfolio and experience broader insight to more aspects of dentistry. The staff have been extremely supportive and ultimately provided a springboard for a career as a competent hospital dentist. I highly recommend GPT as an excellent route for new graduates who may be unsure if they want their careers in a hospital or practice setting.

1. by email