Guest Blog: Career Journey from Dental Nurse to Dental Service Manager
Kara, Dental Service Manager
My career with the Dental Service began in November 2014, when I joined as a part‑time dental nurse on a fixed‑term contract to cover maternity leave. I already had experience in Minor Oral Surgery (MOS) and implantology, and I quickly rediscovered my passion for MOS. Before long, I became one of the main MOS nurses at the Cambridge base while continuing to support the wider range of services we delivered.
During this time, I also became a single parent, which made balancing work and home life challenging. Thanks to flexible working arrangements and a supportive team, I was able to continue developing in my role.
In 2022, our practice manager announced her retirement, and the service introduced a new leadership structure, including lead nurse roles at each site. Morale across the team was low at the time, and although I was offered a Band 5 role at another trust, I chose to stay and apply for the Lead Dental Nurse position. I wanted to contribute to rebuilding the culture and supporting my colleagues. I was appointed as Lead Dental Nurse for Cambridge, and within a year, morale had improved significantly. It became clear that I had a strong interest in leadership and service development.
I completed the Step on Up course, and following this, the education team encouraged me to consider a Level 5 apprenticeship in Operations and Departmental Management, which included the NHS Mary Seacole leadership qualification. At my next appraisal, my line manager confirmed full support for my application, and I began the programme in September 2024. Although I was nervous about balancing the course with my leadership responsibilities, I was committed to progressing.
Around this time, Coral, the Cambridge, Wisbech and Ely Service Manager, an exceptional role model announced her retirement. Her role had always been a long‑term aspiration of mine, though I felt I was still early in my leadership journey. I approached senior management to explore development opportunities, and above all else, I wanted to showcase myself and be noticed for the leader I was becoming. I decided to step outside my comfort zone by applying for the Service Manager position. Although I was not successful at the first interview, the feedback was extremely positive. The role was later re‑advertised as a Band 6 development post, and despite moments of self‑doubt, I applied again and was successful.
I completed the NHS Mary Seacole qualification in September 2025 and went on to finish the Level 5 apprenticeship, which involved a substantial portfolio, multiple assignments, and an end‑point assessment with the CMI. I achieved distinctions across all areas, and I am now a registered Chartered Manager.
I am currently working through my competency plan to fully transition into the role of Dental Service Manager. I remain committed to my development and to contributing to the service’s future.
Although I originally saw dental nursing as my long‑term career, especially with a young family to support, my journey has shown me that your path can grow far beyond what you first imagine. With determination, the right support, and the courage to step outside your comfort zone, you can open doors you never thought possible. When you believe in your potential and are willing to show others what you’re capable of, opportunities begin to appear that can completely transform your career.
