Faculty of Dental Trainers Appoints Professor James Field as Chair

The Faculty of Dental Trainers (FDT) is delighted to announce the appointment of Professor James Field, as Chair of the FDT following the recruitment process which closed in April 2025.

James is a Professor of Dental Education and Restorative Dentistry based in the University Dental Hospital, Cardiff. James has been actively involved in the delivery of education for over 20 years - and was involved in the inaugural FDT Executive Committee and developing the original Standards for Dental Trainers. James also leads the ADEE (Association for Dental Education in Europe) Graduating European Dentist curriculum taskforce. His impact and innovation in teaching and training has been recognised with Principal Fellowship of Advance HE, the award of a National Teaching Fellowship, and Fellowship with the Academy of Medical Educators. His educational research interests include the use of simulation, reflective practice, resilience and coping, and curriculum reform. 

Professor Grant McIntyre, Dean of the Faculty of Dental Surgery, welcomed the appointment:

"I am delighted that Professor James Field has been appointed to the role of Faculty of Dental Trainers Chair and look forward to working with James to nurture, promote, advocate and support everyone involved in dental training. James has a substantial pedigree in dental training and brings a richness of experience and enthusiasm to the role.”

Whether you're an experienced educator or an emerging trainer, the FDT offers a professional home for those dedicated to excellence in dental teaching and education. Professor Field (pictured) commented: “Having been involved as part of the Faculty of Dental Trainers' inaugural Executive Committee, I am honoured and excited to be able to return as its Chair, to help drive forwards its activity and vision. As the Faculty grows each year, its membership represents ever-widening aspects of the educational and training community."

Looking ahead, James added:

"We must ensure that we are inclusive in how we recognise potential Members and Fellows and plan engaging and accessible events and activities that the community finds useful. I am excited to explore new partnerships with organisations that are also interested in education, teaching and training of the dental and oral health team."

To support this renewed vision, the FDT Executive will soon launch two parallel initiatives: a targeted recruitment drive to appoint new members to the FDT Executive Committee, and a broader campaign to expand the Faculty by welcoming new members into the FDT community. Now is the perfect time to get involved and help shape the future of dental training. 

James concludes:

"If you're not already a member of the Faculty, I encourage you to visit https://fdt.rcsed.ac.uk/how-to-join and join us on the next stage of our journey."