Flexible training opportunities

If you are applying to enter Dental Core or Specialty Training and would like to train part time, you can apply for one of our flexible training options.

The options available to you will be dependent on what level training you are undertaking.

If you are undertaking Dental Core or Specialty Traiing, you can apply for Less Than Full Time training.

Less Than Full Time (LTFT) training

The aims of LTFT training are to: 

1. Retain dentists in the workforce who are unable to continue their training on a full-time basis for a well-founded individual reason  

2. Promote career and personal development as well as work/life balance and wellbeing 

3. Ensure continued training in programmes on a time equivalence (pro rata) basis 

You can apply for LTFT training for several reasons, some of which are illustrated below. More information can be found in the Dental Gold Guide 2023. 

• Disability or ill health 

• Caring responsibilities, including for children 

• Welfare and wellbeing 

• Unique opportunities for personal/professional development 

• Religious commitments 

• Non-dental-specific professional development  

Other well-founded or personal reasons not listed above may be considered. Approval is dependent on the capacity of the programme and available resources.

LTFT training requirements

You will normally be required to undertake no less than 50% of full-time training. In exceptional individual circumstances which are agreed by the Postgraduate Dental Dean in advance, you may be allowed to undertake training at less than 50% of full time for a limited period.

How to apply for LTFT training

Please contact your Regional Office (Deanery) and Training Programme Director (TPD) for more information on the application process, window and deadlines. It is important to give at least 16 weeks’ notice of your wish to train LTFT to allow sufficient time for the employing Trust to be notified and to discuss with the TPD for the purposes of rotation planning. 

Further information is available on the COPDEND website and found within the Dental Gold Guide 2023.