After being out of dentistry for a while I decided that when I went back to dental nursing I would take the opportunity to further myself professionally and personally.

I came back to nursing a little later than expected due to single parenthood, but made the decision to investigate various courses. To my horror, the majority of them were beyond my financial capability.

Eighteen months on and I have just attended my first lesson in radiography for dental nurses, thanks to my local deanery in London.

I received information through the post informing me that, if your dentist or dental practice holds an NHS contract with your Primary Care Trust, they would pay a lump sum towards the course and examination fee. So I jumped at the chance!

I wanted to let your readers and other nurses know about this scheme and to recommend they contact their deanery to see if they run a similar system. The exam comes from NEBDN so it is all official and recognised.

I would also like to mention the teachers, Dr Richard DeCann and Mr Tim Reynolds. I enjoyed their lessons; they are very knowledgeable in the field and are very motivating: you leave the classroom feeling as if you have really learned something and want to know more. I consider myself lucky to have been given the chance to study with people who obviously enjoy teaching.

I have heard that the deanery might be funding the OHE course next year, so I for one will be keeping my ear out.