Image: Gill Webb & Samantha Southall
iPod Prize for Dental Trainee
A Dudley dental assistant has something to smile about after winning an iPod.
Samatha Southall, from Dudley, was presented with her prize which she won when her name was picked from scores of other trainees.
The former Bishop Milner school pupil took up a new-style training programme called LA-Life which provides free training while at work.
Set up by Connexions Black Country and the Learning and Skills Council, LA-Life provides free learning opportunities and specialist support to 16 and 17-year olds who are in work but not receiving any kind of training.
Samantha said: "I am really enjoying my training and winning an iPod is a bonus. Connexions has really helped me. When I left school I wanted to prove to my mum I could get a job. I started work at Langland Dental Practice and then last year I got help from LA advisor Gill Webb, who helped me to get training as part of the LA-Life programme. I am now on a dental assistant course, Level two at Dudley College."
Samantha now works as a dental assistant at Langland Dental Practice, in Sedgley Hall Avenue, Sedgley.
Samantha added: "I didn't want to go to college but once I started this job, I wanted to learn more and more. LA-life has made a big difference as didn't know what I wanted to do until I started the job. My mom is over the moon about my job. Now I would like to progress in time to a dental hygienist.
"I wouldn't have done what I have without LA-life as I always need someone to give me a push. "
Mr Rees, principal dentist and owner of Langland Dental Practice, said: "The LA-Life scheme is very helpful as Samantha is a key member of the team. Connexions helped Sam get on the course at Dudley College and helped us select the right person for the job."
