About
Steven Attwell is a Clinical Lecturer in Primary Care Dentistry at the University of Liverpool, with over 17 years of NHS clinical experience as a General Dental Practitioner and 15 years of teaching clinical communication to undergraduate dental and medical students. His work is grounded in inclusive, patient-centred care, and he is currently researching ways to embed diverse and inclusive communications into a new course on clinical communication.
Steven has a particular interest in emotional intelligence, cultural competency, and supporting internationally qualified clinicians in adapting to UK clinical practice. His teaching spans simulated patient interactions, coaching, clinical supervision, formative feedback, and increasingly incorporates digital simulation tools, including haptics. Steven is currently looking into the emerging potential of AI-driven roleplay. Steven was part of the award-winning team recognised in the 2023–24 LTSE Faculty Awards for pioneering work on safe surgical skills training using haptically enabled virtual reality simulation — a project that reflects his commitment to enhancing clinical education through immersive technology.
He is also Co-Lead for Year 1 BDS/BSc and serves as Staff-Student Liaison Committee (SSLC) Staff Co-Chair, a role to which he was elected by the student body in recognition of his commitment to student experience and advocacy.
Previously, Steven was a member of the Bupa Dental Care Advisory Committee, representing NHS general dentistry at a national level. He also contributed to Bupa’s UK media team, supporting public engagement through press releases and commentary on dental health topics. During his time in practice, he was actively involved in implementing an NHS pilot scheme, which included strategic meetings with the Chief Dental Officers — helping trial service delivery and policy at a national level.
Prizes or Honours
- Post Graduate Presidential Award (Royal Society of Medicine Odontology, 2025)
- Faculty Learning, Teaching and Student Experience Award for Haptic simulation Education (University of Liverpool Faculty) (University of Liverpool, 2024)