NHS Forth Valley – Medical & Dental Work Placements

At NHS Forth Valley we recognise the importance of helping people make an informed choice about a career in Medicine or Dentistry.

We are committed to supporting the transition into higher or further education, and employment, and offer Shadowing/Observation placements to support your UCAS Application to study Medicine or Dentistry

In order to access a placement within NHS Forth Valley (even if you have identified a host department by yourself) please submit your application following the process outlined here NHS Forth Valley – Work Placements

The Medical Schools Council and The Dental Schools Council offer advice on the type of work experience needed to support your application to study.

The entry requirement pages of the university you wish to apply to will have detailed information about the application process and requirements.

Whilst shadowing/observing a Dentist or Doctor can be an excellent way to gain insight into the profession, it’s not the only way. Whatever your experience, it’s important to showcase your commitment to helping others and your understanding of the importance of compassionate care

Any activity or life experience that helps you prepare for professional study is beneficial. Any public-facing role, for example, is valuable as interpersonal skills are an important part of being a Doctor or a Dentist

Volunteering and paid part time work are very useful ways of gaining experience. Virtual observation and reflection is also very helpful.

Other useful activities might include reading journals or following news about the NHS. These activities will emphasise your interest in a Medical or Dental career and your willingness to research your chosen profession

NHS Scotland Medicine and Dentistry Careers Information

Working in dentistry provides a range of varied and rewarding career opportunities that make a real difference to people’s lives, from improving oral health and care to helping to prevent and detect other health conditions and ensuring people get access to the right services.

Widening Access Programmes

The Scottish Government has a widening access programme for many professions including Medicine and Dentistry.

University of Glasgow – Schools – School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing – Widening Participation
Dentistry resources from Reach | University of Dundee, UK
Direct entry to the medical undergraduate course (A100) and the Glasgow access Programme (GAP) offer a range of options for suitable applicants.

Virtual Work Experience

Dentistry Experience – SDS Marketplace – In this virtual experience programme, you’ll explore the varied world of dentistry- from understanding the distinction between different specialities and roles to getting to the root of understanding the essential skills needed in the role. Plus, you’ll be able to find out about the various ways to enter each role. You’ll complete a series of quizzes and fun activities to help build your understanding of the industry, finishing the programme with a downloadable portfolio of your work.

You Can Be A Doctor – You Can Be A Doctor, a Scottish charity dedicated to breaking down barriers and empowering individuals to pursue a career in medicine.

Virtual Ward Rounds – While watching videos cannot fully replace real-world experience and conversations with health professionals, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has created some resources to guide your own reflections on what you are seeing. By working through these you will take away some important learning points about how the whole team interacts in a hospital environment and how both patients and staff may feel about certain scenarios.

Observe a GP – Observe GP is an online alternative to work experience for aspiring medics aged 16 and over, who are living in the UK. It is a free interactive video platform providing insights into the role of a GP and the wider primary care team.