How do universities view distant learning courses?

I would have a short sentence in my personal statement about it or get any reference to mention it. I don't think it will go against you. It will show that you're determined to learn and want to go to university so I think it won't be a disadvantage. As long as you have good grades, a good personal statement and good reference, then why would they reject you?

i hope to get AAA in my A levels and do some work experience in a dentist to enhance my application for next year. the reason why i thought they might reject me is because dentistry is competitive and other students have gained their A Levels from school whilst i've so support myself and learn from my tutor from time to time. i still have doubts they may not look at my application the same way a student from a normal school has

As long as it's in before the deadline, then they will have to give it equal consideration. The fact is that you've made a conscious decision to return to education whereas others have gone straight through. While both show commitment and dedication, your circumstance shows an extra determination to study and to get on the career path that you want to be on. As long as you have a great application, then there is no sense in rejecting you.

Also, bear in mind that TSR has a great amount of resources that can help strengthen your application. We have a PS Help team who will review your statement and help you to improve it and we have a wiki with a large amount of information along with subfora dedicated to dentistry and many universities.

thank you so much for your help, i'll update you on what the admission tutors say!