We’re excited to announce the launch of Dog Grooming Awareness Month (DGAM) this July. This new campaign aims to celebrate the dog grooming profession and highlight its vital contribution to the health, comfort and wellbeing of dogs. Throughout the month, we’ll showcase dog grooming as a skilled and rewarding career, while raising awareness of the […]
The College of Animal Welfare News Blog
Dog Grooming Awareness Month to launch this July
Can You Become a Veterinary Nurse as a Career Change?
Veterinary nursing is a profession that people enter at many different stages of their careers. Some students begin their veterinary nurse training straight after finishing school, while others decide to retrain after spending years in completely different industries. Whether you currently work in an office, retail, healthcare, education or another field, changing careers to veterinary […]
Student VNs Issued with VR Headsets for Practical Skills Training
We are proud to announce the latest phase in our Virtual Reality (VR) project. From 2026, all new veterinary nursing students are being provided with a VR headset, on free loan, for the duration of their studies. The VR headsets enable veterinary nursing students to access our existing bespoke virtual reality software, which is designed to support both OSCE preparation for both small animal and equine student vet nurses, and the understanding […]
Our Level 3 Diploma in Equine Veterinary Nursing is BACK in January 2027!
We’re excited to say the Level 3 Diploma in Equine Veterinary Nursing is returning in January 2027, and applications are open now! This programme provides the opportunity to develop the skills, knowledge and practical experience required to become a qualified equine veterinary nurse, supported every step of the way by our expert tutors. Key Facts […]
5 Skills Every Veterinary Receptionist Needs (And How to Build Them)
Working on a veterinary reception desk involves a wide range of responsibilities. Receptionists are often the first point of contact for worried pet owners, act as a vital link between clients and clinical staff, and play an important role in ensuring the veterinary practice runs smoothly. Because of that, the role requires a specific set […]
First ever National SQP Week – 5–12 June 2026
The UK’s first ever National SQP Week will take place from 5–12 June 2026, marking a major milestone for the Suitably Qualified Person (SQP) profession — also known as Animal Medicines Advisors. The week‑long campaign aims to celebrate and raise awareness of the vital role SQPs play in safeguarding the health and wellbeing of pets, […]
Celebrating Pride Month 2026!
This June, the College of Animal Welfare is proud to come together to celebrate Pride Month, recognising and supporting the LGBTQIA+ community across our staff, students, and wider network. Pride Month is an important opportunity for us to reflect on the values that underpin everything we do — compassion, respect, and inclusion. What we have […]
Apprenticeship Changes: The good, the bad and what that means for you as an employer
FREE EMPLOYER WEBINARS Major changes to apprenticeship funding are coming from August 2026 which may affect employers of all sizes and across all sectors. To help you prepare, we’re hosting two free webinars in June where we’ll break down the proposed changes and explain what they could mean for your business, allowing you to plan ahead […]
What Makes a Great Clinical Supervisor or Assessor?
As experienced professionals, many of you will take on the role of supporting student veterinary nurses in practice. Effective clinical supervisors are central to the development of competent, confident future professionals. Key characteristics of a great clinical supervisor include: 1. Strong Clinical Knowledge Demonstrates up-to-date, evidence-based practice Explains and understands procedures clearly and safely 2. Effective Communication Provides clear instructions and […]
From Newly Qualified to Confident Leader: Why Coaching and Mentoring Skills Matter for Veterinary Nurses
Stepping into practice as a newly qualified veterinary nurse is an exciting milestone. After years of study, placements, and assessments, you are finally part of the clinical team, contributing directly to patient care and client experience. However, many newly qualified nurses quickly discover that qualification is just the beginning of a new learning curve. In […]