Published 22/01/2026
Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW) is delighted to announce a range of postgraduate dental training opportunities launching in 2026/27 - developed directly in response to feedback from current trainees.
In Wales, we pride ourselves on putting trainees first. These offers aim to strengthen clinical experience, support job security and career development across our Dental Foundation Training (DFT) and Dental Core Training (DCT) programmes.
DFT Welsh Enhanced Recruitment Offer (WERO)
DFT WERO returns for 2026/27, continuing to encourage recruitment in rural areas of West, North, and Central Wales while improving access to essential dental care for these local communities.
The scheme offers a comprehensive support package to attract and retain skilled dental trainees in rural Wales, including:
As part of the standard DFT offer you will also have access to:
Feedback from previous cohorts highlighted that early job security and a locally managed recruitment process were key motivators for these rural DFT posts- often more so than financial incentives.
The WERO initiative has consistently achieved 100% positive trainee feedback since its launch in 2022, with many highlighting the breadth of experience gained in rural practice and supportive teams.
“A brilliant and friendly team. The practice was modern and well-equipped. My Educational Supervisor was fantastic, always on hand to answer any questions and tailor tutorials to suit my needs.” - 2024/25 WERO trainee
Alongside the professional benefits, trainees enjoy the lifestyle and natural beauty of rural Wales - a truly unique part of their training journey.
Applications for DFT WERO open on 2nd February until 27thFebuary 2026 for new UK graduates who have trained in Wales, are Welsh-domiciled, or have an existing link to Wales.
For more information, please visit the WERO webpage. Please note these posts are not eligible for temporary GDC registration.
Academic DFT
In partnership with Cardiff University, we are developing a new Academic DFT post offering trainees the chance to combine clinical practice with academic experience.
Trainees have expressed a growing interest in career pathways that blend research, teaching, and leadership. This post supports those aspirations, providing a structured foundation for future academic or portfolio-based careers.
Further details and application guidance are available on the ADFT webpage.
Longitudinal Programmes
HEIW is expanding its range of 24-month “run-through” posts in response to trainee requests for greater job security and work–life balance.
These programmes reduce the need for annual re-applications, allowing trainees to focus on developing their skills, career goals, and life outside work. They are particularly suited to those seeking stability.
We have been mindful to maintain a broad range of 12-month DCT posts to support flexibility and individual choice, and we have expanded the range of specialties available for our DCT2 posts to include Paediatric Dentistry and Oral Medicine.
Longitudinal DFT–DCT Programme
Following the successful launch in 2025, HEIW will again offer 24-month DFT–DCT run-through posts in September 2026.
These posts combine a DFT year based in a Dental Teaching Unit in the Welsh Valleys with a DCT1 year split between Community Dentistry and Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery.
Applicants can select these posts during the DFT National Recruitment preferencing window (Glamorgan Vale & Beacons Scheme).
Longitudinal DCT1–DCT2 Programme
Launching in September 2026, these new posts allow trainees to progress seamlessly from DCT1 into a linked DCT2 year.
Based in South Wales (Cardiff and surrounding areas), these 24-month posts are designed to build strong professional networks, continuity of learning and lasting mentorship. The linked posts have been carefully selected to complement one another allowing for a greater breath of experience and depth of understanding.
Applications for all longitudinal posts will open via national recruitment at www.oriel.nhs.uk. Please refer to the national recruitment timeline for key dates.
Please note: by preferencing a two-year post, applicants commit to completing the full duration.
To learn more about these new training opportunities, visit the Dental Training Programmes webpage.