A TRAINING and development company in Dumbarton has helped put a smile on the face of a teenager by helping her find an apprenticeship as a dental nurse.

Although school wasn't really that enjoyable an experience, Courtney Hirshall, 18, was nervous about leaving to take up the modern apprenticeship at a dental surgery but a few months in she is sure she made the right decision.

With help from the Tell Organisation which specialises in helping individuals improve skills, move careers, or increase their opportunities to find employment, Courtney was able to make the transition from school into work relatively seamlessly.

A chat with her careers adviser and future employer helped her make up her mind to quit school and her leap of faith has paid off with the apprenticeship at Mark Burns Dental Practice in Drumchapel.

The teenager was recruited through the Tell Organisation who run The Dental Nurse Academy. Funded by Skills Development Scotland, Dental Nurse Academy candidates go through a rigorous training programme including Certificate of Work Readiness, health and safety, infection control and medical emergencies.

Courtney said: “At the beginning I thought it was a big jump, leaving school to start working. My mum wasn’t keen on letting me leave school either, but now that we both know what it’s all about we’re certain the right decision was made.”

"Since I have started my job and qualification I have enjoyed every minute of it. I find it really interesting and learn a lot in practice. I really enjoy learning on-the-job and learning things as you go. I’m learning new things every day in a proper, professional environment. Getting paid for it as well is really nice. I also enjoy the practical side at college. Everyone at the practice has been really helpful."

Angela Kershaw, Business Development Executive at the Tell Organisation said: “We wish Courtney all the best in her new role. We are passionate about providing worthwhile, sustainable job opportunities for young people.

“We are delighted to work in partnership with SDS to raise awareness of the advantages of the Academy model which lets young people to get access to career opportunities and allows employers to recruit high calibre candidates.”