Coatbridge sees launch of Scottish Institute for Dental Nursing Education

The Scottish Institute for Dental Nursing Education (SIDNE) was opened today at New College Lanarkshire's Coatbridge Campus with Minister for Community Care, Alison Thewliss MSP, saying it would provide 'vital' educational opportunities.

The Minister went on to say: "This is an important milestone and it's vital we have educational opportunities like this to ensure that our workforce remains equipped, adaptable, and ready to meet the changing needs of patients and communities across Scotland."

New College Lanarkshire has trained dental professionals since its Dental Nursing curriculum began as a single evening class in 1990. It has since grown into one of Scotland's most respected dental education programmes and created Scotland's first Dental Nursing degree.

Dr Gillian Leslie, Chief Dental Officer, cut the ribbon on the new facility saying: "Thousands of dental practice professionals have already undertaken training programmes here, contributing to the development of skills, confidence, and a high-quality workforce."

Today, the college has trained almost half of Scotland's 59,000 dental support staff and the department continues to lead the sector with pioneering work in AI, Smile Design, CAD training, 3D modelling, and training staff to support patients with early-onset dementia.

The Chief Dental Officer added she was delighted that "there will be a new range of online programmes which will be launched, including Scottish Vocational Qualification Level 3 in Dental Nursing. This will help learners across Scotland, including those in remote and rural communities, such as the Highlands and Islands, access high-quality education flexibly."

Kate Wilson, Academic Lead for Dental Nursing at New College Lanarkshire, said: "Today's launch of the Scottish Institute for Dental Nursing Education is the beginning of a new era for dental education in Lanarkshire and Scotland. We have world-class facilities, an award-winning innovative team, international partnerships, digital pathways, Modern Apprenticeships, and programmes reaching students in every community, including rural and remote areas."

New College Lanarkshire Principal, Professor Christopher Moore, said: "The launch of the Scottish Institute for Dental Nursing Education recognises what our dental team has already achieved, becoming Scotland's recognised centre of excellence in this field.

"The institute will now build on that foundation to give even more of tomorrow's dental professionals the skills and support they need. This is a proud day for us at New College Lanarkshire, and for Coatbridge. It shows that nationally recognised excellence is happening right here in Lanarkshire."