The Educational Supervisors: Biran Shah: I qualified from the Manchester Dental School in 2001 and undertook my FD year (formerly VT) in the Kings Lynn scheme (which became the Norwich scheme and is now the Norfolk and Waveney scheme). I stayed on as an associate with the practice and I have been an educational supervisor since 2007. I took a one year break from general practice in 2004 to work as an SHO in the oral and maxillofacial surgery department at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital where I completed my MFDS exam. I also completed training for a postgraduate certificate in dental education although I think my wife wants me to stop all the extra studying now! My hobbies include skiing, holidays, and wine tasting however I actually spend all my spare time being a free taxi service to my children!
Adam Smith: I completed my FD year in 2013 and was also fortunate to stay on as an associate. I have an interest in general dentistry and enjoy the huge variety of work I experience on a daily basis. I also have an interest in dental politics holding several positions on local committees including the LDC and I am currently chairman of the Norfolk and Norwich Section of the British Dental Association. In addition I have completed courses in Healthcare leadership and management. Out of work I enjoy country walks, cycling, golf and live music. I like to brew my own beer and cider which I find helps on the really stressful days of the job!
The Practice: We have 12 practices in the area spread around Great Yarmouth, Norwich, and Lowestoft areas. The practice as a whole consists of 5 principals, around 50 associates, several orthodontists and an oral surgeon. The successful FD will be working at the New Costessey and Thorpe St Andrew practices.
Both practices are purpose built and have 5 surgeries with modern equipment. There is ample car parking space. Both practices have centralised sterilisation rooms, DPT machines and excellent working conditions with friendly staff. Our practices are predominantly national health and we strive to provide quality dentistry within the NHS. There will also be an opportunity to access our resources to other treatments such as implants, in-surgery whitening, botox and fillers.
On average we take on 5 FDs a year and have a diverse workforce of over 200 people. The successful applicant will be fully supported at all times and will have ample opportunity to take advantage of sharing experiences with other FDs during the many social occasions that will arise.
We are a social group, with organised football, hockey and cricket held frequently plus pub quizzes and meals out weekly.
The Area: Norwich is a great city with many bars, pubs, restaurants and shops. There are 2 shopping centres and several nightlife areas so there is always plenty to do. There is a central train station with good links to Cambridge and London daily. Outside the city you will quickly find yourself in a beautiful scenic county with its sandy beaches and the renowned Norfolk Broads. A variety of outdoor activities such as paint balling, clay pigeon shooting, cycling, Go-Karting, and sailing are available depending on your interests.
Both the Thorpe and New Costessey practices are within easy reach of the city centre.
Other Points of Interest: Even for people who know nothing of the area, the practice group provides the perfect opportunity for FDs to gain experience and enjoy the year in a relaxed and sociable atmosphere with young Dentists and staff in a non corporate environment. There are usually 5-6 new FD's within our practices every year and we run lots of social events to help our new colleagues adjust to practice life and not feel isolated.