Kiandra finds meaning and purpose through her dental assisting traineeship

After graduating from high school, Kiandra was unsure what to do next. She didn’t want to sit at a desk all day, and was not interested in going to university, but didn’t want to end up stuck in a job with no long-term direction. After talking with her family, friends, and former Year Twelve teachers, she became interested in the idea of doing a traineeship.

After some soul searching, Kiandra felt drawn to working in the healthcare industry, and through CVGT Employments Apprenticeships & Traineeships team, she secured a role as a Dental Assistant trainee with Bendigo Health.

Kiandra admits she began in the role with no experience, no qualifications, and no clear idea of how it would all turn out. This quickly turned around for her once she started working:

Once I entered the workforce, the importance of making a change and helping people became even more meaningful to me. I wanted to be someone others could rely on someone who could make a genuine difference in their lives. Dental assisting allows me to do exactly that. Being able to support patients, contribute to their care, and help put a smile on their faces in an environment where real impact is made is what immediately drew me to this field.
Kiandra
Dental Assistant, Bendigo Health

Being able to work towards a nationally recognised qualification was also very meaningful for Kiandra, providing her with the motivation to keep going.

I quickly realised it was the perfect balance. I could gain hands-on experience, earn an income, and work towards a qualification at the same time. The on-the-job training removed the pressure of returning to full-time study, and with only around three hours of study per week, I was able to complete my qualification in under a year.
Kiandra
Dental Assistant, Bendigo Health

The training provided a great experience for Kiandra, who previously struggled in a traditional school environment. The flexibility and mode of teaching over zoom for three hours every week was delivered by teachers were highly supportive and communicated clearly, taking the time to explain and guide her through each task step by step.

All coursework was completed through an online platform where feedback on submissions was easily accessible. I found this to be one of the best learning experiences I’ve had, especially as someone who did not enjoy traditional schooling.
Kiandra
Dental Assistant, Bendigo Health

Kiandra is enjoying the variety of her role and the feeling of being part of a team committed to patient care:

No two days are the same. My role can include Smile Squad visits, chairside assisting, or supporting La Trobe students. During chairside assisting, I work closely with clinicians by preparing set-ups, assisting throughout procedures, and supporting them with whatever is needed to ensure the day runs smoothly. Dental assisting involves far more than basic assistance—it requires teamwork, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to patient care.
Kiandra
Dental Assistant, Bendigo Health

For anyone else who is considering undertaking a traineeship through CVGT Employment, Kiandra offered this advice:

My advice to someone that’s thinking about doing a traineeship is just do it! It was one of the greatest decisions I made and I am so proud of the career I have been able to create for myself. It has so much to offer and can take you to all kinds of directions for your future. If you have no idea what you want to do, there’s always different kinds of traineeship opportunities that will suit you.
Kiandra
Dental Assistant, Bendigo Health

Find an apprenticeship or traineeship with CVGT Employment

If you are interested in starting a traineeship or apprenticeship yourself, complete our online form below to register your interest with CVGT Employment. Once you have completed the form we will respond to you as soon as possible