Born and raised in Cheshire, with a spirit for exploration and an enduring passion for dental nursing, I now find home in the tranquil settings of the Isle of Man. From immersing myself in the dental community of Cheshire to contributing to Guernsey’s unique dental system, and now relishing the scenic beauty of the Isle of Man where I enjoy daily walks with my dog, my journey has been diverse.
This rich personal journey complements my 35-year professional experience in both the NHS and private practice, which spans various settings, including university hospitals, private clinics, and community healthcare. As a Tutor Assessor for the Dental Business Academy, I bring this wealth of experience to mentor students, while continuous learning for personal and professional growth remains a key personal and professional value of mine.
Tracie Barnett is an experienced Treatment Coordinator, educator, and mentor with over three decades of hands-on involvement in the dental profession. Beginning her dental career in 1993, she gained extensive experience as a dental nurse across NHS and private practices, emergency dental clinics, and as a locum nurse, developing a deep understanding of both clinical and patient-facing environments.
In 2017, Tracie transitioned into Treatment Coordination, becoming the original TCO for Dr Martina Hodgson. Together, they developed an award-winning digital patient journey that transformed the patient experience. She subsequently achieved an Advanced Diploma in Treatment Coordination—becoming the first in Yorkshire to do so—and continues to work clinically as a part-time Treatment Coordinator.
Since 2021, Tracie has dedicated much of her career to supporting, training, and mentoring both new and experienced TCOs. She holds a Level 3 qualification in Education and Training and delivers highly regarded courses to dental teams, including Invisalign patient journey excellence and iTero scanning for dental nurses, hygienists, and TCOs. Tracie is also a speaker for Align Technology,
From Leeds, Tracie enjoys the balance of city living with time spent walking, reading, tackling DIY projects, and being with her family—especially her two grown-up children and her two grandchildren, who continues to keep her smiling on Nanna days.
Dr Andrew Toy founded The Dental Business Academy in 2013 with a clear purpose: to provide accessible, high-quality training that empowers the entire dental team. After decades as a clinician, educator, and Programme Director—and as the first general dentist in the UK to achieve a Master’s in Clinical Education—Andy recognised the need for practical, flexible learning pathways that truly support dental professionals in their careers.
A passionate advocate for extended-duties teams, Andy has trained Treatment Coordinators since 1986 and developed both the renowned Blueprint Programme and the Level 3 Advanced Diploma for TCOs. His work with Align Technology and the City of London Dental School has helped thousands of clinicians enhance their patient journeys and Invisalign outcomes.
Today, as he steps back from leading the Academy, Andy has placed his full trust in Tracie Barnett to carry forward the vision, values, and educational excellence that shaped the Academy from the very beginning. Their long-standing professional relationship and shared passion for elevating dental teams ensure that Andy’s legacy continues with integrity and purpose.
Donna is married to Steven and has two children, Holly and Joseph. She loves her family holidays in Cornwall, reading, keeping active and is partial to the odd chocolate bar.
Donna started her career in dentistry in 1998, qualifying in 2000. She was the first dental nurse to achieve the level 3 Advanced Diploma in Aligner TCO and recently passed her iTero Wizz Certificate training.
Donna really enjoys her TCO role, developing close professional relationships with her patients and team members. She has seen with her own eyes the potential for team members to make a significant impact on a practice’s quality of care.
Donna has taken extra qualifications in training and mentoring so that she can help colleagues achieve their full potential and build a rewarding dental career.
