Child Oral Health Programme Development: Childsmile

This introductory course is designed for participants from the UK, and internationally, who are interested in finding out more about the theory underpinning child oral health improvement programmes, using Childsmile as a case study. This short course is suitable for all of the dental team, policy makers and public health colleagues

The Childsmile programme, the Scottish Government funded national oral health improvement programme, is now recognised globally as having delivered marked improvements in oral health of children across Scotland. Our team has shown significant cost savings to the National Health Service associated with the toothbrushing component of the programme.

This short course will run Monday 1 June – Friday 5 June 2020 and will be based at the University of Glasgow Dental School.
Deadline for applications: 22 April 2020

 

Why this short course?

  • You will gain an understanding of:
    • the theories and principles of improving child oral health and tackling oral health inequalities via public health interventions.
    • the practice and policy of developing public health interventions to improve oral health and tackle oral health inequalities.
  • The course will be delivered by The Childsmile Evaluation and Research Team (CERT) based at the University of Glasgow.
  • You will be taken on a community visit to observe Childsmile in action.
  • You will discuss with the CERT how the Childsmile programme may be adapted to your own community setting either in the UK or overseas.

Impact

Our research contributes to the ongoing development and long-term evaluation of Childsmile.

Historically, child oral health in Scotland has been among the worst in Europe, and by the late 1990s more than 50% of 5-year-olds in Scotland showed evidence of dental decay.

Since 2011, Childsmile is delivered to all young children in Scotland, setting the foundation for positive oral health behaviours and attitudes for the duration of life and has been responsible for major improvements in oral health.

Our research has shown that the Childsmile toothbrushing programme has resulted in substantial savings to the NHS in Scotland. The course will be delivered by the CERT team led by Professor Lorna Macpherson

Short Course Structure

The course will be delivered through workshops and discussion groups with key members of the CERT, self-directed learning and community visits. Additional material and electronic resources will be available on Moodle, the University’s virtual learning environment, to support and enhance students’ learning experience.

Students will havet he opportunity to discuss issues relevant to programme development in their local context with peers and members of faculty.

Fees

UK/EU students: £806

International students: £2167

Entrance Requirements

Entrants to this short course require a relevant first degree or equivalent experience in employment.

Testimonials

"I found the course well-structured and very informative. I have learned new skills/theories and models and I hope to apply rhese in my own practice and future research."

"I found the nursery visit valuable as it was useful to observe the tooth brushing and flouride varnish application programmes in action"

"Fantastic week; engaging group; particularly enjoyed the mix of participants. Would highly recommend to colleagues-thank you!"

Apply now - Home/EU Students

Apply now - International Students

If you have any questions about this course, please contact andrea.sherriff@glasgow.ac.uk