Rate My Professor Kirsty Barltrop

Kirsty Barltrop serves as a Senior Professional Practice Fellow and Clinical Tutor in the Bachelor of Oral Health programme at the Department of Oral Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Otago. She holds a Diploma in Dental Hygiene (Dip Dent Hyg LA). Barltrop began her association with the Otago School of Dentistry as a Dental Assistant in 2000, graduated as a Dental Hygienist in 2004, and has held the position of Professional Practice Fellow since 2011. Her career trajectory reflects a deep commitment to oral health education and clinical practice within the university setting. She is listed among staff with expertise in oral health and periodontics. Barltrop co-coordinates courses such as DEOH302 Advanced Oral Health Therapy 1. During the academic semester, she teaches students in the Bachelor of Oral Health programme, and during university breaks, she treats patients at the Dental School. She has been involved in the development and evolution of the Bachelor of Oral Health qualification, which integrated dental hygiene and dental therapy components in 2007.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions to oral health care, Kirsty Barltrop was awarded the New Zealand Dental Hygienist of the Year 2023 by the New Zealand Oral Health Association. This accolade honors practitioners who exceed expectations in elevating standards of oral health practice. Barltrop emphasizes the challenges encountered by students and patients, underscoring the value of empathy in education and care. She attributes her teaching skills to insights gained from interactions with patients, students, and fellow staff members. Her work supports the Dental School's emphasis on preventive oral health strategies, fostering good habits from childhood into adulthood. Barltrop has played a formative role in student education and patient care, contributing to the training of graduates who excel in the field, such as Anne-Marie Maikuku, recipient of the Annette King Award for Excellence and Leadership. Through her long-term dedication, she continues to advance clinical teaching and oral health therapy at the University of Otago.