04 March 2025
Upskilling with Foundation Education
Overview of Foundation Education
Foundation Education is one of Australia’s leading Registered Training Organisations (RTO). Their courses are developed alongside industry experts with practical components delivered via industry partners in real-life work environments. It’s one of the few RTOs that offer certificate and diploma-level dental courses that can be completed online, with the benefit of undertaking the practical components within your own practice.
By providing formal qualifications and career pathways, Foundation Education, alongside ADAVB, will provide a valuable opportunity for vocational staff to upskill, advance their careers, and contribute to raising the standard of the dental industry.
Courses and skillset overview
Studying a Certificate or Diploma with Foundation Education will enrich your team with the latest skills, techniques and practices in the dental field and may help to eliminate any educational gaps. This way, you can be sure the standards of your entire practice are elevated, with all staff providing the best possible care to your patients.
The theory components of these courses are completed online, from anywhere and at any time; while the practical elements can be undertaken from the familiar surroundings of your practice.
HLT35021 Certificate III in Dental Assisting
The HLT35021 Certificate III in Dental Assisting equips you with the required experience, training and expertise to work in the oral healthcare industry in a variety of dental assistant jobs. This dental assistant course reflects the role of workers who assist dental practitioners during oral healthcare procedures. With a Certificate III in Dental Assisting qualification, you’ll be successfully prepared to work in a clinical environment.
Study requirements
- 350 hours of practical work placement.
- 10 course units to complete.
- Submit 1 course unit every 5 weeks to graduate in 12 months.
HLT55021 Certificate IV in Dental Assisting
The HLT45021 Certificate IV in Dental Assisting reflects the role of dental assistants that provide an advanced level of assistance to dental practitioners which directly contributes to the quality of oral health care. The course covers a variety of highly interesting and practical units that are directly applicable in a dental practice setting. This includes further developing skills in areas such as interpreting and applying medical terminology, taking clinical photographs, sterilising equipment and correctly managing sterile stock. This course is perfect for those who have already completed a Certificate III in Dental Assisting and are looking to take on more responsibility in their role.
Study requirements
- 8 course units to complete.
- Submit 1 course unit every 6 weeks to graduate in 12 months.
HLT35021 Certificate III in Dental Assisting and HLT45021 Certificate IV in Dental Assisting
Designed to be completed within just 24 months of back-to-back study, these qualifications teach you everything you need to know on how to become a dental assistant.
Study requirements
This bundled qualification must be completed in the following order:
Certificate III in Dental Assisting:
- Up to 12 months to complete HLT35021 Certificate III in Dental Assisting.
- 10 course units to complete.
- Submit 1 unit of competency every month to graduate in 12 months.
Certificate IV in Dental Assisting:
- Up to 12 months to complete HLT45021 Certificate IV in Dental Assisting.
- 5 course units to complete.
- Submit 0.5 units of competency every month to graduate in 12 months.
HLT57715 Diploma of Practice Management
Lead your team in creating a safe and happy healthcare environment with the Diploma of Practice Management, a specialised practice manager course.
The Diploma of Practice Management will equip you with the leadership and management skills you need to advance your administration career in the medical sector. Throughout your studies, you will learn how to direct junior staff and achieve the business goals of your practice. You will learn to manage risk, implement infection control policies and, most importantly, deliver a high level of service to patients.
Study requirements
- 15 course units to complete.
- Submit 1.5 course units every month to graduate in 12 months.
HLTSS00072 Dental Radiography Skill Set
Available to those who have completed a Certificate III or Certificate IV in Dental Assisting. Boost your Dental Assisting career with Foundation Education’s Dental Radiography Skill Set. Through three focused course units, you’ll gain essential radiography skills and a nationally recognised qualification that can open doors to new professional opportunities.
Study requirements
- 3 course units to complete.
- Course duration: up to 6 months
- Practical requirements:
o You’re required to undertake practical tasks in a dental clinic under the direction of an AHPRA Registered Dental Practitioner with a Radiation Use Licence applicable in their state or territory. To successfully complete this course, it’s essential that your placement provider has the necessary equipment, resources and/or documentation. For detailed information on these requirements, please reach out to a friendly Foundation Education Careers Advisor to obtain a copy of the complete list.
- State and territory licensing requirements:
o To work in Dental Radiography, you must meet the specific licensing requirements of your state or territory. After completing the Dental Radiography Skill Set, obtaining a Radiation Use License is essential for operating radiation equipment. The table below outlines the prerequisite qualifications required to apply for a Radiation Use License.
Exclusive discounts for ADAVB members
Thanks to this exciting partnership, ADAVB members and their staff can access corporate discounts to study with Foundation Education, making the advancement of dental care and careers a reality around Victoria.
To find out more about Foundation Education’s courses and how to unlock your exclusive discount, chat to a friendly Careers Advisor for a free consultation on 1300 616 197.
