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<p><b>Aims</b> To explore the attitudes of undergraduate dental students towards dental foundation training (DFT), also known as dental vocational training in Scotland, and other early career pathways.</p><p><b>Methods</b> An online questionnaire was distributed via the British Dental Students' Association's communication channels to UK dental students using convenience and snowball sampling. The survey included closed- and open-ended questions. Quantitative data were analysed statistically and thematic analysis was applied to open-ended responses.</p><p><b>Results</b> A total of 177 responses were received, primarily from final-year students. Nearly all respondents planned to apply for DFT, with 25% aiming for NHS-only work, 52% for mixed NHS and private work, 9% private-only, 4% abroad, and 10% undecided. Expected earnings post-DFT ranged from £30,000 to £70,000 (median £50,000–£60,000) and a trend toward reducing workdays over time was noted.</p><p><b>Conclusion</b> UK dental students perceive DFT as a valuable step in preparing for independent practice. Insights into student attitudes, along with concerns about NHS challenges, financial pressures and career pathways, can inform workforce planning and policy, supporting sustainable development of the dental profession.</p>

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Attitudes of undergraduate dental students in the United Kingdom to dental foundation training

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2026年5月22日

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  • Joshua Kennedy,
  • Gurleen Kaur Muker,
  • Vinay Chavda

摘要

Aims To explore the attitudes of undergraduate dental students towards dental foundation training (DFT), also known as dental vocational training in Scotland, and other early career pathways.

Methods An online questionnaire was distributed via the British Dental Students' Association's communication channels to UK dental students using convenience and snowball sampling. The survey included closed- and open-ended questions. Quantitative data were analysed statistically and thematic analysis was applied to open-ended responses.

Results A total of 177 responses were received, primarily from final-year students. Nearly all respondents planned to apply for DFT, with 25% aiming for NHS-only work, 52% for mixed NHS and private work, 9% private-only, 4% abroad, and 10% undecided. Expected earnings post-DFT ranged from £30,000 to £70,000 (median £50,000–£60,000) and a trend toward reducing workdays over time was noted.

Conclusion UK dental students perceive DFT as a valuable step in preparing for independent practice. Insights into student attitudes, along with concerns about NHS challenges, financial pressures and career pathways, can inform workforce planning and policy, supporting sustainable development of the dental profession.