Why has the FDT been established?
The FDT has been launched to provide a platform for the promotion of the role of the dental trainer, to recognise dental trainers and, ultimately, to enhance the quality of patient care and ensure that patient needs are met safely.
Who is it aimed at?
Membership of the Faculty is open to all those in the UK and internationally who have an interest in dental training, regardless of Royal College affiliation. For Associate Level, applicants must be able to demonstrate an interest and/or involvement in dental training. For Fellow and Member levels, the FDT is aimed at qualified dentists and dental care professionals registered with their relevant competent authority who can demonstrate their contribution to and involvement in the provision of training.
What are the benefits for those who join?
Membership at any level supports those who join, demonstrating a strong commitment to the provision of high-quality training on their CVs and enhances appraisal returns. Members and Fellows are entitled to use the post-nominals (either MDTFEd or FDTFEd) and enjoy networking opportunities, as well as having access to training-related resources developed by the Faculty.
Will FDT membership be recognised by employers?
Recognition by the FDT at all levels benefits applicants for posts involving teaching and training, as well as further career development.
Is the FDT open to people outside the UK?
Yes, anyone can apply providing they satisfy the entry criteria for the appropriate membership level.
Why are dental trainers being treated separately rather than being included with the Faculty of Surgical Training?
The Faculty of Dental Trainers has been created separately in order to recognise the particular context of training in dentistry, which is different to that of surgery. The two Faculties work closely together and collaborate in areas of common interest.
How long does it take for applications to be processed?
An Assessment Panel aims to convene at least every three months and normally in March, June, September and December, depending on the number of applications.
Successful applications for Membership or Fellowship will be recommended by the Assessment Panel to the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh Dental Council and thereafter the College Council for ratification. Membership and Fellowship level awards are normally conferred at one of the College Diploma ceremonies. Successful applicants will be notified of the outcome of their applications shortly after ratification by College Council.
Is the FDT open to Dental Care Professionals who are involved in training?
Yes. Dental nurses, dental hygienists, dental therapists, orthodontic therapists, dental technicians and clinical dental technicians can apply to become an Associate, Member or Fellow of the FDT.
Can I join if I am not already a member of the RCSEd Faculty of Dental Surgery?
Membership of the FDT is open to all those in the UK and internationally who have an interest in dental training, regardless of Royal College affiliation.
What will it cost to join the FDT?
For all those who are successful with their applications, subscription fees are payable. Members and Fellows of the FDT are permitted to use their post-nominals as long as they remain in good standing with the Faculty or RCSEd, if they are also a member of the College.
