Are you wild about exotics? Join us at Wildlife and Exotics Congress 2024
We’re delighted to be hosting out next virtual Wildlife and Exotics Congress on Wednesday 16 October 2024.
Join us virtually for 7 hours of specially curated CPD all about the care of wildlife and exotic species. Whether you are already a wildlife enthusiast looking to learn more, or you work in general practice and come across these patients but feel that you need a little more confidence to care for them to the best of your ability, this congress is for you.
What’s on at Wildlife and Exotics Congress 2024?
We have five excellent lectures planned, all about avian anaesthesia, the care of hedgehogs, rabbit nursing, monitoring anaesthesia in small furries and hibernation in tortoises.
Avian Anaesthesia – Keeping it safe
An introduction to monitoring anaesthesia in small furries
Hibernation: Let’s dispel myths and legends to face it safely
Throughout the day, as well as listening to presentations, you will have the opportunity to interact with speakers through live Q&A sessions, network with other delegates and take part in a virtual exhibition.
During congress a range of industry organisations will be joining us virtually to showcase the fantastic products and services they have to offer. Exhibitors so far include Millpledge Veterinary, Vetlife, Pet Remedy, CAW Business School and Pinmoore Animal Laboratory Services Limited (PALS).
If you’re based in Scotland (or wish to live and study there), have a passion for animals and are considering a career that combines science, care, and compassion – becoming a veterinary nurse might be the perfect path for you. Here, we’re exploring how you can become a veterinary nurse in Scotland…
Why choose veterinary nursing?
Veterinary nursing is a rewarding career that allows you to work closely with animals and their owners, providing essential care and support in veterinary practices. As a veterinary nurse, you will play a crucial role in the health and well-being of animals, assisting with surgeries, conducting diagnostic tests, and offering guidance on animal care. Find out more about the role of a veterinary nurse
How to become a Veterinary Nurse in Scotland
Educational pathways for veterinary nursing in Scotland
In order to become a veterinary nurse in Scotland, you need to complete a structured training programme approved by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS); there is a list of RCVS approved courses and training providers in Scotland (and elsewhere in the UK if you’re interested in relocating to study) on the RCVS website.
There are two main education routes to becoming a qualified veterinary nurse in Scotland:
There are qualifications available for those who wish to study veterinary nursing for companion animals, or equine veterinary nursing.
Scottish academic entry requirements
Entry requirements will vary by provider, so it is important to check with the institution you wish to study with for specific criteria. However, training providers based in Scotland typically require you to hold relevant SQA qualifications such as:
5 subjects at a National 5 including English, Maths, and a Science subject and/or
Highers/Advance Highers at level A, B or C; to include English, Maths and a Science subject
Whether you are a Scottish national, or you are an international applicant looking to study veterinary nursing in Scotland, you should contact your chosen training provider if you are unsure whether your qualifications meet their entry requirements.
Work experience and employment in a veterinary practice
Many veterinary nurse training courses, whether they are based in Scotland or elsewhere in the UK, will require you to have some experience working in a veterinary practice prior to application, so gaining relevant work experience is crucial. This not only strengthens your application but also gives you a realistic insight into the profession. You could also consider volunteering at animal shelters, kennels, catteries or stables to support your application.
When applying for courses, ensure your application highlights your passion for animal care, relevant work experience, and academic achievements. Prepare for interviews by understanding the roles and responsibilities of a veterinary nurse and demonstrating your commitment to the field. We have gathered some advice about how to write a veterinary nursing personal statement, and how to strengthen your application for veterinary nurse training.
Registration and professional development
Upon completing your qualification, you must register with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) to practice as a veterinary nurse in Scotland. Once you are an RCVS Registered Veterinary Nurse, you must keep your skills and knowledge up-to-date with regular Continuing Professional Development (CPD). At CAW, we offer a variety of CPD courses and veterinary congresses to support registered veterinary nurses in their professional development.
Career prospects for Registered Veterinary Nursing
Veterinary nursing offers diverse career opportunities. You can work in general veterinary practices, specialist clinics or animal hospitals in Scotland, as well as elsewhere in the UK or abroad. There are also roles in animal charities, research institutions, and education. You can search for veterinary nurse positions in Scotland online, using search engines such as Indeed or by looking at veterinary practice websites.
With experience, you may advance to a head veterinary nurse position, or specialise in areas such as surgical nursing, emergency and critical care, or exotic animal care. You can read more about career progression options for veterinary nurses on our website.
More advice and guidance
Stay motivated: Veterinary nursing is a demanding but incredibly fulfilling career. Stay focused on your goals and be prepared for continuous learning.
Network: You can join professional bodies such as the British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) to connect with peers and stay informed about industry developments.
Embarking on the journey to become a veterinary nurse is a significant commitment, but the positive impact you can make on animal health and welfare makes it a rewarding profession. With the right preparation and dedication, you can look forward to a fulfilling career in veterinary nursing.
Interested in training as a veterinary nurse at CAW?
Alternatively, if you would like to find out more, or you have any questions about training with us, you can reach out to our Client Advisor team by calling 01480 422060, emailing admin@caw.ac.uk, starting a live chat on our website or requesting a call back.
What soft skills can help you succeed as a veterinary nurse?
Working as a veterinary nurse is both demanding and rewarding, requiring a unique combination of technical ability and soft skills to provide the best care for animals and support for their owners.
Whether you’re looking to train as a veterinary nurse in the future, or currently working as an RVN, take a look at the core skills that can support your success in the veterinary nursing profession:
1. Communication
Effective communication is crucial for those who wish to succeed in veterinary nursing. Good communication as a veterinary nurse involves clearly and compassionately conveying information to pet owners and efficiently collaborating with colleagues. Veterinary nurses must be able to discuss treatment plans, provide updates, and educate pet owners about the health of their pet in a way that is easy to understand and sensitive to their concerns.
2. Empathy
Empathy is an important soft skill for veterinary nurses, as showing a sense of emotional insight is key to forming trust with pets and their owners, as well as fostering a positive clinical environment. For example, displaying empathy can help in soothing anxious pets and providing comfort to worried pet owners, enabling you to provide better nursing care.
3. Patience
Whether it’s a scared kitten hiding in the corner, or an owner asking lots of questions, dealing with pets and their owners often requires a high level of patience. Animals may be uncooperative or fearful, and treatments may not yield immediate results. Additionally, owners might become stressed or upset and need more time to understand their options or make decisions about their pet’s care. Sometimes your working day won’t run smoothly, but being able to stay calm and collected will make these moments much easier to handle.
4. Attention to detail
As a veterinary nurse you will be involved in a range of precise technical tasks, from administering medications to monitoring anaesthesia. Attention to detail is crucial, as it ensures that treatments are carried out correctly and safely, which is fundamental to the wellbeing of the animals under your care.
5. Adaptability
No two days are the same in a veterinary practice, and as a veterinary nurse you should be prepared for this. Veterinary nurses must be flexible and able to adapt to the unexpected, whether it’s an emergency surgery or a sudden change in a patients’ condition. Being able to think on your feet and adjust to new situations quickly is a valuable skill in this field.
6. Problem-solving
Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are vital for veterinary nurses, who often need to make quick decisions about patient care. This might involve figuring out why an animal is showing certain symptoms or deciding the best approach to a complex medical procedure. Effective problem-solving helps ensure high-quality and timely care for the patients.
7. Teamwork
Veterinary nursing is far from a solitary role, and successful nursing care is often a team effort. You will work closely with veterinary surgeons, other nurses, and support staff such as veterinary care assistants and veterinary receptionists. A good team player can work collaboratively, share responsibilities, support their colleagues and step up to lead where needed, all to enhance the overall functioning of the veterinary practice.
8. Resilience
Working as a veterinary nurse can be emotionally demanding. Dealing with sick and sometimes dying animals, along with distressed owners, requires a strong level of resilience. Being able to cope with emotional stress and bounce back from difficult situations is crucial for long-term success in the profession.
9. Organisational skills
Efficient organisational skills are paramount in veterinary nursing, in order to effectively care for all your patients, as well as complete additional administrative tasks. Being organised not only increases efficiency but also minimises the chances of errors, which can be critical in a fast-paced veterinary environment.
10. Professionalism
Maintaining a high degree of professionalism is essential in any veterinary role, including veterinary nursing. This includes adhering to ethical standards, respecting confidentiality, and presenting a courteous and respectful manner to both colleagues and clients. Professionalism fosters a positive workplace and builds trust with pet owners.
These soft skills are integral to the effectiveness and professional growth of a veterinary nurse. While technical expertise is incredibly important, these personal competencies enable veterinary nurses to provide exceptional care and maintain a high standard of practice. Aspiring and current veterinary nurses should continuously develop these skills to enhance their career and ensure the best outcomes for their patients and clients.
Alternatively, if you would like to find out more, or you have any questions about training with us, you can join us at one of our upcoming Open Evenings, or reach out to our Client Advisor team by calling 01480 422060, emailing admin@caw.ac.uk, starting a live chat on our website or requesting a call back.
Interested in training as a veterinary nurse, but not employed in a veterinary practice? Explore our training route for non-employed applicants
Whether you’re looking to change careers but are unable to find a position as a student veterinary nurse in your local area, or you’re a school leaver looking for an alternative to university, this new training option could be for you.
Here, we’re exploring our training route for non-employed applicants in further detail. Read on to find out how it works, who it’s for, where you can study and discover all the added features and benefits…
In years 1 and 3, you will undertake lessons on a day release basis either by coming into college for classroom tuition, or by studying remotely via online lessons in our virtual classroom (depending on which centre you choose to study from). In addition, you will be required to spend one additional day per week working through online course materials with up to a further six hours per week developing your practical skills using a virtual reality headset. When you are not undertaking college lessons, online learning or practical skills training in years 1 and 3, you are able to undertake casual work (working in any type of employment) to financially support yourself during the programme.
During year 2 of the programme, you will undertake a full-time unpaid work placement in an RCVS approved veterinary practice. You will undertake 40 hours per week for 45 weeks of placement across the 52 weeks.
Practical training sessions are held in-centre in the college environment; you will attend your chosen centre for practical training days (approximately 10) throughout your programme. We deliver this programme from centres located throughout the UK, including: Basildon, Bodmin, County Durham, Derby, Chorleywood, Edinburgh, Guernsey, Horsham, Huntingdon, Leeds, North London, Solihull, Wigan and Stoke-on-Trent. Find your nearest centre
Successful completion of the programme will allow you to apply to join the RCVS Register for Veterinary Nurses and use the post nominals, RVN.
Who is this programme for?
This programme has been designed to offer an alternative training route for those who would like to train as a veterinary nurse, but who have not been able to secure a paid position as a student veterinary nurse in veterinary practice. This course may be suitable if you’re unable to find a student veterinary nurse position or apprenticeship vacancy in your local area, or you’re looking for an alternative to University that doesn’t require 4-5 years of study or living on campus.
Why study this programme?
Studying our new three-year programme as a non-employed student can be an excellent alternative to university or an apprenticeship, and comes with lots of unique benefits.
✓ No employment required to apply
In order to apply for the programme, non-employed applicants require just two weeks of work experience in a veterinary environment, and a reference from an RVN/Vet surgeon to support your application (in addition to meeting the academic entry requirements). You can view the full entry requirements on our website. What’s more, the minimum age requirement to study the non-employed route is just 18, meaning if you’re a sixth form leaver you can start studying straight away!
✓ Study around your existing commitments
When you are not undertaking college lessons, online learning or practical skills training in years 1 and 3, you are able to undertake casual work (working in any type of employment) to financially support yourself during the programme.
✓Support in finding a work placement for year 2 of training
Our dedicated placement team will use connections with over 700 veterinary practices to source an unpaid placement for your second year of training.
✓Environmentally friendly education
If you choose to complete your weekly lessons remotely in our virtual classrooms, you will only need to attend your local satellite centre for approximately ten days per year for practical training sessions, minimising travel time and costs and reducing your carbon footprint. Many of our satellite training centres are located inside modern veterinary environments, with state-of-the-art facilities and specialist staff. Find your nearest centre
✓ Four intakes per year
Diploma students can qualify as a veterinary nurse in just 3 years, meaning the programme could be the perfect route if you are perhaps not in the position where you can take the four to five years of study necessary to gain a degree. More than this, if you find paid employment as a student veterinary nurse within your first year of training, you may be able to transfer to our programme for employed students in year two.
Whilst traditionally many training programmes begin in the autumn, you don’t need to wait until September to start your course. Non-employed students studying the diploma can begin their programme throughout the year, with intakes starting in January, April, July and October.
What other features do non-employed students benefit from?
Virtual reality
We are the first veterinary nursing college to integrate the use of virtual reality into veterinary nurse education. As a student on the non-employed route, you will be able to practise the OSCE tasks that you may come across in your real exams using a virtual reality headset, such as taking x-rays, packaging samples and identifying parasites. A team of developers have meticulously designed the software to simulate various scenarios covering both small animal and equine tasks used in OSCE examinations. The software not only teaches you the steps required to successfully pass each task, it also provides you with the ability to undertake mock tests and see how you perform, highlighting to you any steps you may have missed, to help with future learning. You can watch a sample task from our VR clinical skills environment on Youtube.
We have recently launched our new advanced Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) which students will have access to 24/7. The new, web-based system delivers interactive learning materials to any connected device and allows students to submit assignments, take exams and track their assessments. Our VLE includes lots of exciting features to enhance our students’ learning, including a document repository, online exams and assignment submissions capability, VLE and IT helpdesk support, bespoke interactive learning materials developed in-house, lesson capture, virtual classroom delivery, forums, Microsoft 365 integration and eLibrary integration.
Live Online or college attended study options
If you choose to complete your weekly lessons remotely in our virtual classrooms, you will benefit from our Live Online learning provision, which combines the structure of a traditional classroom with innovative virtual learning. This is ideal for those who like the advantages of live classroom learning, but are unable to attend a CAW training centre due to travel constraints or family commitments.
Our online conferencing system allows our tutors to deliver effective teaching sessions and share engaging audio, video, slides, chats and screens. The software also offers lots of interactive features which means you can engage with your tutors and peers in real-time, for example through sharing of emoji icons, polling, and breakout rooms. Find out more about Live Online
There are also options to complete your weekly lessons from training centres located in Huntingdon, North London, Leeds or Basildon for selected intakes. Our training centres are easily commutable by car or public transport, and all feature a practical skills room and relaxation areas; along with modern lecture rooms complete with video conferencing facilities.
Flexible payment options
Veterinary nurse training doesn’t need to break the bank, and we offer a range of flexible payment options to help cover the cost of training. You can cover the course fees in one payment, pay annually, or break down the cost into monthly payments via our Pay-As-You-Learn scheme. We also offer the CAW Loans2Learn scheme, which can be used to fully or partially cover your course fees (but does not cover any Awarding Body fees). In addition, if you are over 19 years of age, you may be eligible to apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to help fund your studies (England only). Find out more about fees and finance
Where can you study the non-employed option?
We deliver this programme from centres located throughout the UK, including: Basildon, Bodmin, County Durham, Derby, Chorleywood, Edinburgh, Guernsey, Horsham, Huntingdon, Leeds, North London, Solihull, Wigan and Stoke-on-Trent. Find your nearest centre
Start your application for veterinary nurse training today
If you’re inspired to start your veterinary nurse training, we are enrolling for our next intakes now, and you can begin your application at any time by applying online. Alternatively, if you would like to find out more, or you have any questions about training with us, you can join us at one of our upcoming Open Evenings, or reach out to our Client Advisor team by calling 01480 422060, emailing admin@caw.ac.uk, starting a live chat on our website or requesting a call back.
Exploring the path from Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA) to Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN)
If you’re working as a Veterinary Care Assistant and looking to progress in your career, have you considered going on to train as a veterinary nurse?
Veterinary nursing is a popular progression route for VCAs, and what’s more – your experience and qualifications may already meet the entry requirements needed to apply for the Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing. Read on to find out more about why you might look to progress onto veterinary nurse training, and whether you’re qualified to begin formal training now.
Am I qualified?
In order to apply for the Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing, you must have a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 9-4 (A*-C), including English Language, Mathematics and a Science subject. Students with Scottish qualifications are required to have 5 subjects at a National 5 or Higher/Advance Higher at level A, B or C; to include Maths, English and a Science.
If you do not meet these requirements, there are alternative qualifications that may be acceptable. For example, veterinary care assistants who successfully complete the Level 2 Certificate in Veterinary Care Support or the Level 2 Diploma for Veterinary Care Assistants, in combination with a full level 2 qualification in Maths and English (e.g. GCSE Grade C or above or Level 2 Functional Skills).
There are two routes:
If you are employed in an RCVS Training Practice (TP) you can start training as a student veterinary nurse at any time (as long as you meet the entry criteria). It should take between two and three years to complete, depending on if you do the diploma as a standalone qualification or as part of an apprenticeship.
If you are not employed in a TP then you could consider undertaking our three year programme which includes a year long unpaid work placement in a TP in year two which will be sourced for you by our placement team.
Training as a veterinary nurse can be a valuable and rewarding career progression route for veterinary care assistants. There are several reasons why veterinary care assistants might consider furthering their education and training to become veterinary nurses:
Advancing clinical skills and knowledge
Veterinary nurses undergo formal training, which includes theoretical and practical coursework in areas such as anatomy, pharmacology, surgical nursing, radiography, and more. This education equips them with a deeper understanding of animal health and a wide range of practical nursing skills.
Boosting earning potential
Job prospects for registered veterinary nurses continue to remain high in veterinary practice and in related industries. What’s more – salary expectations have increased significantly in recent years. Salary prospects have improved significantly in recent years, the median salary package for qualified veterinary nurses is now £30,500 (SPVS Salaries Survey 2022/3).
Widening career options
Upon completion of formal studies, veterinary nurses have numerous professional opportunities. You could remain in first opinion practice; move into referral practice and specialise in a particular area, train as an equine veterinary nurse, or find work in related industries such as management, research, teaching, sales or rehabilitation with further training.
What other career progression options are open to me as a veterinary care assistant?
From undertaking formal veterinary care qualifications, to exploring additional training in customer service or veterinary nursing, there are many professional development options available to veterinary care assistants (VCAs). Whether you’re already working as a veterinary care assistant or looking to enter the field in the future, let’s explore how VCAs can progress in their career:
Undertake a formal veterinary care qualification
If you’re a veterinary care professional without a formal veterinary care qualification looking for formal recognition of your skills and experience, there are veterinary care courses available that can help you do so. For example, at The College of Animal Welfare we offer:
If you are called upon, or have an interest in, helping with the monitoring of animals under anaesthesia, VCAs have the option to undertake the City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate in Assisting Veterinary Surgeons in the Monitoring of Animal Patients Under Anaesthesia and Sedation qualification. Whilst it is recognised that the monitoring of anaesthesia of companion animals is best carried out by a qualified veterinary surgeon or veterinary nurse, this is not always possible in every circumstance. Therefore, this qualification was developed to equip those, who may be called upon to assist, with the necessary knowledge and skills needed to do so in a safe, professional manner.
Become an Animal Medicine Advisor (SQP)
If you have an interest in veterinary medicines, you could undertake formal training to become an Animal Medicine Advisor (SQP). VCAs can undertake the VetSkill VTEC Level 4 Award for Animal Medicines Advisors (SQP – Companion Animal) qualification in order to achieve this. Successful completion of this qualification allows you to apply for entry onto the VetSkill SQP register and qualifies you to prescribe and supply veterinary medicine classes POM-VPS and/or NFA-VPS to companion animals. As part of your training, you will learn more about the role of an SQP and develop a broad understanding of animal health and disease, as well as the skills to identify parasite infestations and select appropriate medicines to prescribe.
Complete customer service training
Effective customer service combined with specialist knowledge of the record-keeping systems that support clinical services can make the all the difference to the customer experience and ensuing practice reputation. There are opportunities for VCAs who have reception duties to study additional qualifications in veterinary reception, such as the VetSkill Level 2 Certificate for Veterinary Receptionists. Alternatively, you could undertake customer service qualifications in order to learn more about best practices in customer service and boost your client communication skills.
Undertake leadership and management training
VCAs who are aspiring to step into a leadership role in their veterinary care team, or those who enjoy coaching other members of the team and want to learn more about how this is best done, have the option to undertake a leadership and management or coaching and mentoring qualification.
Attend professional development events
Many training providers offer short courses and events open to VCAs looking to progress in their role and network with fellow delegates, for example at The College of Animal Welfare we run an annual VCA Congress. You may also have an interest in attending one of our other veterinary congresses covering subjects such as animal behaviour or animal nutrition.
If you are employed in an RCVS Training Practice (TP) you can start training as a student veterinary nurse at any time (as long as you meet the entry criteria). It should take between two and three years to complete, depending on if you do the diploma as a standalone qualification or as part of an apprenticeship.
If you are not employed in a TP then you could consider undertaking our three year programme which includes a year long unpaid work placement in a TP in year two which will be sourced for you by our placement team.
If you have any questions, or you are looking for advice about your next steps as a veterinary care assistant, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a member of our Client Advisor Team. You can reach out by calling us on 01480 422060 or requesting a call back, emailing us at admin@caw.ac.uk or starting a live web chat on our website.
10 Ways to Learn at Work
In today’s rapidly evolving job market, keeping your professional skills up-to-date is crucial for advancing in your career and enhancing your performance at work. Whether through formal training, online courses, mentorship, or hands on experience, every step you take towards learning contributes to your long-term success.
As part of this years’ Learning at Work Week, we’re exploring several effective strategies to help you learn new skills in the workplace:
1. Apprenticeships
Did you know, contrary to popular belief, apprenticeships aren’t just for school leavers? Apprenticeships are available to those at all levels of a company, and can be used by staff members to upskill in the workplace or prepare for career progression. To give just one example, you could choose to undertake a leadership and management apprenticeship as part of your training and progression into a management position.
2. Taking on new, different projects
Getting involved in new projects, especially those outside your usual responsibilities, can be a great way to learn by action. It shows your willingness to tackle new challenges, and can be a direct way to apply new knowledge and skills. It may also lead to formal training in a new subject, or open doors to new collaborations, mentorships, and career opportunities.
3. Undertaking internal company training
Many companies offer internal training sessions, workshops, or seminars to staff members. Make sure to take advantage of internal training sessions as they arise, as they’re designed to help you perform better and are often tailored to your specific industry or job function. Internal training is also an opportunity to refresh your understanding of company policies, procedures, and expectations.
4. Seeking out a mentor
Finding a mentor within your company can provide you with personalised guidance and insight into your career development. A mentor can support you in reaching your career goals by helping you navigate workplace challenges, offering advice based on their own experiences and setting up learning opportunities in the workplace.
5. Becoming a mentor
Whether you’re currently working in a mentoring role, or interested in becoming a mentor in the future, mentoring is more than just transferring advice and knowledge, and your mentor is not the only one who will be learning new skills. The mentor-mentee relationship can help you to strengthen your active listening and communication skills. Not only this, you can develop your personal leadership, management and coaching qualities. You could even undertake a formal qualification in coaching and mentoring to boost your skills even further.
6. Trying out different roles
If your company offers job rotation or secondment opportunities, why not give them a try? Moving into a different role for a short time period is a practical way to learn about different areas of your business and pick up skills you wouldn’t otherwise encounter. This process can broaden your skillset, as well as make you more versatile and adaptable.
7. Networking at industry events
Expanding your professional network by attending industry meetups, conferences or company events can significantly enhance your personal and professional growth by providing opportunities for you to exchange ideas and gain new perspectives. Building a strong network can also open doors to new learning opportunities, partnerships, and collaborations that might not be accessible through traditional channels.
8. Online training
Online learning platforms such as Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning offer a range of courses across various fields. Check if your company provides access to any of these platforms—it can be a convenient way to learn new skills from the comfort of your desk or home. Your company may even host their own webinars and events that you can utilise to further your professional development. For example, at The College of Animal Welfare we deliver regular virtual veterinary congresses, as well as bitesize sessions exploring leadership and management skills.
9. Setting personal goals
Identifying what skills you want to develop can help guide your learning efforts. Whether it’s becoming proficient in a new software tool or enhancing your presentation skills, having specific targets keeps your learning focused and makes it easier to identify opportunities to meet those goals at work.
10. Reflecting on your learning
Take some time to think about what you’ve learned and how you can apply it. This could be a quick mental review or a written note. Reflecting helps you internalise what you’ve learned, refine your approaches to learning and assess what’s next. Reflection also promotes self-awareness, allowing you to better understand your own learning style, which can guide more effective and tailored education.
Staying proactive about learning at work not only boosts your career but also makes your daily routine more dynamic. By engaging in training, leveraging resources, and putting yourself out there, you’ll continue to grow and enjoy your work more fully.
Explore the veterinary nursing profession this Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month
Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month is here! Read on for more information about the role of the veterinary nurse, training options, employment opportunities available post-training, and more…
Do you want to know more about the responsibilities of a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN)?
Veterinary nurses are essential team members in veterinary practice, working alongside veterinary surgeons to deliver vital care to animals. RVNs are highly skilled professionals who take on significant tasks, such as performing diagnostic tests, administering treatments, and caring for sick and injured animals. RVNs also educate pet owners on the health and welfare of animals, and may conduct various clinics offering services like health checks, weight management advice, pre and post-operative checks, microchipping, and dental hygiene.
Did you know there are multiple pathways to becoming a veterinary nurse?
In order to become a veterinary nurse, you will need to achieve professional registration with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) by completing an RCVS approved veterinary nursing course. You can obtain your professional credentials through two main routes: earning a university BSc (Hons) or FdSc degree, or obtaining a Level 3 Diploma.
Both programmes of study offer unique benefits and are recognised as evidence of a high quality education. Typically, you will need at least 5 GCSEs at grades 9-4 (A*-C), including English, Maths, and a Science subject, along with relevant work experience. If you do not meet the GCSE requirements, some training providers may accept alternative qualifications. For instance, at The College of Animal Welfare, successfully completing our Level 2 Diploma for Veterinary Care Assistants or Level 2 Certificate in Veterinary Care Support, along with Level 2 Functional Skills qualifications in Maths and English, would meet the academic entry requirements needed to apply for our Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Companion Animal).
Have you seen what career opportunities are available to registered veterinary nurses?
Veterinary nursing is a varied and rewarding career path which opens up a wide variety of professional opportunities, with roles available in veterinary practice, education, research, management – and many more! There are also opportunities to develop your career and specialise depending on the practice you work in and your interests.
Whether you’ve just qualified as a veterinary nurse, have been working in the industry for some time and looking for a career change, or you are considering training as a veterinary nurse in the future, explore career progression for veterinary nurses in further detail here…
Veterinary nursing is a natural career choice for those with their heart set on working in the veterinary industry. Working as a veterinary nurse offers the opportunity to have daily contact with animals and their owners, and work as part of close-knit teams in veterinary practice. Plus, RVNs have varied career options in veterinary practice and in related industries. Take at look at what else makes veterinary nursing a great profession to join…
Have you heard about our Live Online learning approach to veterinary nurse training?
Live Online is an increasingly popular delivery model for our Level 3 Diploma / Apprenticeship in Veterinary Nursing programme (both companion animal and equine pathways).
Its involves a mixture of online lessons held in a virtual classroom, and in-centre practical skills training sessions, supported by additional online learning activities alongside employment or placement in a veterinary practice. Read on the find out more…
How does Live Online work?
Students will attend regular virtual lectures in order to complete the theory element of their programme. Our lectures are delivered via our virtual teaching platform, which allows students to engage with tutors and peers in real-time, either from home or work.
During virtual lectures, students participate in a diverse range of learning and assessment activities including live chat, group chat, breakout room activities, independent activities e.g. research, polls and Q&A sessions. All virtual classroom sessions are recorded and are available to view after the event for consolidation of learning and revision purposes. Online exams are available via a remote invigilation platform as well as by physically attending one of our main centres.
In addition to their remote classes, students have some online course materials outside of class time to work through prior to each week’s classes.
Practical training sessions
Alongside their remote classes and online learning, students attend their chosen training centre for approximately 10 days throughout their programme, for practical skills training sessions.
What are the benefits of Live Online?
✓ Promoting sustainability
Students will only need to attend their local training centre for approximately ten days throughout the programme for practical training sessions (and for exams if they choose to take these in-centre), reducing the carbon footprint of our training programmes.
✓ Extensive support, advice and guidance from CAW
Students have regular 1-2-1s with their tutor, and have 24/7 access to digital resources to support their mental and physical wellbeing. Employers will benefit from free clinical coach training and support from a dedicated IQA, as well as help in navigating the TP approval process where applicable.
✓ Innovative learning and development materials
All students will benefit from our innovative teaching methods and access to advanced virtual learning tools including our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) and virtual classrooms and virtual reality clinical skills environment.
✓ Start dates throughout the year
Our flexible, hybrid approach means our programme has intakes starting throughout the year. Students who are already employed in a veterinary practice can even start at any time!
We have recently launched our new advanced Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) which students will have access to 24/7. The new, web-based system delivers interactive learning materials to any connected device and allows students to submit assignments, take exams and track their assessments. Our VLE includes lots of exciting features to enhance our students’ learning, including document repository, bespoke interactive learning materials developed in-house, lesson capture, virtual classroom delivery and forums.
Virtual Classrooms
Our online conferencing system allows our tutors to deliver effective teaching sessions and share engaging audio, video, slides, chat, and screens. The software also offers lots of interactive features which means our students can engage with their tutors and peers in real-time, for example through sharing of emoji icons, polling, and breakout rooms.
Virtual Reality
The College of Animal Welfare is the first veterinary nurse college in the UK to utilise virtual reality, and the technology is changing the way we think about learning. All CAW veterinary nursing students who have a VR headset (or wish to purchase one) will be granted a license to use our virtual reality (VR) software to prepare for their OSCEs (practical exams) for the duration of their programme. Virtual reality helps create muscle memory, leading to the development of practical skills and alleviating exam anxiety. Students can practise the OSCE tasks that they may come across in their real exam, such as taking x-rays, packaging samples and identifying parasites.
Where is the Live Online learningoption available?
As one of the most established veterinary nurse training providers in the UK, we deliver our Level 3 Diploma / Apprenticeship in Veterinary Nursing at centres located all over the country, and we’re still growing! Apprenticeship options are available at all our centres in England, and students are able to start their training throughout the year.
Students are required to attend their chosen training centre for approximately 10 days throughout their programme, for practical skills training days. They will attend one of the following centres:
Satellite training centres
Many of our satellite training centres are located inside modern veterinary environments, with state-of-the-art facilities and specialist staff. Our satellite training centres are located inside:
✔ Blue House Veterinary Centre Stoke-on-Trent (Biddulph) ✔ GSPCA Guernsey ✔ Kernow Farm & Equine Bodmin ✔ Pool House Equine Clinic Lichfield ✔ Pride Veterinary Referrals Derby ✔ Southfields Veterinary Specialists Basildon ✔ Sussex Equine Hospital Horsham ✔ Wear Referrals Bradbury (County Durham) ✔ Wheelhouse Veterinary Centre Chorleywood ✔Willows Veterinary Centre Solihull
CAW Training Centres
The College of Animal Welfare’s training centres located in Huntingdon, North London, Wigan, Leeds and Edinburgh are easily commutable by car or public transport, and all feature a practical skills room and relaxation areas; along with modern lecture rooms complete with video conferencing facilities.
*New* Applicants who are already employed in an RCVS approved training veterinary practice can start the Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Companion Animal) at any time
Did you know, if you are already working in an RCVS approved training veterinary practice and meet the academic entry requirements, you can now enrol and start the Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Companion Animal) at any time (at most of the CAW centres)?
Once enrolled with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and VetSkill, you can start pre course activities and logging your practice hours before your classroom (virtual or in centre) lessons begin.
Pre course activities include course induction, preparing for study, Nursing Progress Log (NPL) guidance, health and safety, anatomy and physiology, and policies and responsibilities i.e. Code of Conduct, Fitness to Practise.
