Dentists praised for getting their teeth into apprenticeships

Michael and Margaret Naylor and Associates, who have been taking on young trainees for almost 20 years, were highly commended at the final of the National Apprenticeship Awards.

The pair, who run Dinnington Dental Practice on New Street, as well as another practice at High Green, Sheffield, have a total workforce of 37 employees, who currently include nine apprentices.

Principal dentist Margaret said: “We find that taking on apprentices who are prepared to work hard, alongside studying for a qualification, helps create a motivated and enthusiastic workforce. The recruitment of apprentices is integral to the policy of providing a first-class service to our patients.

“Working in an area where most jobs are in the manual or service industries, the apprenticeships we offer can provide a tremendous opportunity and the first step on the career ladder.”

Proof that the practice’s policy works is reflected in the fact that more than 90% of its full-time staff have progressed into their current roles after an apprenticeship.