Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, we have adapted our course delivery to now encompass a combination of remote and flexible delivery methods. This includes easy to navigate online tutorials, video conferencing (classroom simulation) as well as face-to-face practical assessments and work placements – where safe and practical to implement. Therefore, you will require access to the internet and a computer to undertake this course.
Our flexible model allows you to continue to study in a safe, guided and fully supported manner with continued access to all learning, personal and wellbeing supports.
You will be advised by your facilitator on a case by case basis in relation to practical and work placement assessments, as some flexibility will be required during this challenging time.
This qualification provides the knowledge and skills needed to provide an advanced level of chair-side assistance to a Dentist, Dental Hygienist, Dental Prosthetist, Dental Therapist or Oral Health Therapist, which contributes to the quality of oral health care.
Additional specialised training and skills will be gained by successfully completing one of the elective specialisation.
Completion of the Radiography specialisation will enable the dental assistant to apply to the Department of Health (Victoria) for a licence to take both intra-oral and extra-oral radiographs under request from a licensed Dental Practitioner
Completion of the Oral Health Promotion specialisation will enable the dental assistant to provide a higher level of oral health instruction and guidance to patients, oral health promotion and implement an oral hygiene program
Delivery combines work experience and flexible training to competently and safely assist the dental professional during oral health care procedures.
Course duration is full-time 1 year, part-time 2 years.
Free TAFE and JobTrainer
You may be entitled to free tuition fees for this course if you meet the eligibility criteria for the State Government’s FREE TAFE for Priority Courses initiative. If you are aged 17-24 or looking for work, you may be eligible for 80% discount on the tuition fee through JobTrainer. Job Trainer is only available till June 2021. It's important to know that you may incur other fees, such as student services fees or materials fees, and you'll need to cover these costs yourself. To find out more, call 13 TAFE (13 8233).
Normally a Skills First student is only entitled to one Free TAFE fee waiver. However, you may be able to enrol even if you have previously used your Free TAFE entitlement in a second Free TAFE course under JobTrainer. You may be able to get an exemption if you don’t meet the upskilling requirement.