Integrating clinical practice and community outreach in dental therapy education

Discover how Alex Ward’s commitment to community, teaching, and leadership is reshaping the future of dental care
Dental Therapist wearing blue uniform
Since graduating from Peninsula Dental School in 2020, Alex Ward has built a career focused on clinical excellence, mentorship, and outreach. From founding the Brighter Smiles initiative to supporting students and serving as an Educational Supervisor, Alex champions accessible dental care and inspires the next generation of professionals.

From student to professional practice

"I attended Peninsula Dental School (PDS) to study the Dental Therapy and Hygiene programme, graduating in 2020. PDS were strong advocates for early clinical experience, which I found invaluable throughout the course. Their spiralling curriculum and emphasis on encouraging dental therapists to practise to the full scope of their role were both inspiring and motivating – something I was eager to embrace in my new career.
"Graduating during the COVID era of dentistry, I chose to undertake to support my transition from undergraduate studies to working in general practice. The scheme offered a structured environment to consolidate my clinical skills under the guidance of a mentor, while still operating to my full scope of practice. The support and feedback from my Educational Supervisor (ES) helped build my confidence and allowed me to identify my areas of interest – particularly restorative and paediatric dentistry."

Returning to the Peninsula Dental School with purpose

"In 2023, I returned to PDS to treat community patients and children in care. I also proudly developed the Brighter Smiles project, which provides preventive dental care to care leavers. This initiative not only showcases the capabilities of dental therapists but also supports vulnerable young adults who have previously faced barriers accessing dental services.
"I've since expanded my clinical skillset by gaining a qualification in inhalation sedation. Supporting patients who require sedation not only enhances access to care but also helps ease the pressure on referral services. It’s incredibly rewarding to help anxious patients complete their treatment journeys successfully."
 

Giving back through mentorship

"This year, I’ve returned to Dental Therapy Foundation Training in a new role as an Educational Supervisor. I’ll be supporting and mentoring a newly qualified dental therapist, and I hope to foster an environment that promotes both professional and personal growth, just as my experience did for me.

"Looking back, I’m proud to have studied at the Peninsula Dental School. The education I received laid a strong foundation, equipping me with essential clinical skills, scientific understanding, and the confidence gained through early patient contact."

Dental technology known as 'Bob in a box'
 
 
 

A rewarding career

"I’m now actively involved in education and regulatory work, spending part of my working week as a clinical supervisor for final year dental therapy students at PDS, and as an academic tutor supporting dental surgery and dental therapy and hygiene students in their early years. I also contribute to their integrated community engagement project. Additionally, I sit on Fitness to Practise panels for the ."

"My advice to prospective students is go for it! Dental therapy is a rewarding and fulfilling career, offering constant learning, variety, and the chance to make a real impact. If you're successful in your application, make the most of every opportunity to develop your skills, whether in the simulated learning environment or treating real patients in clinic. No two days are the same, and you’ll never be bored!"