Live Online learning is becoming an increasingly popular delivery model for Student Veterinary Nurses (SVNs) studying the Level 3 Diploma / Apprenticeship in Veterinary Nursing with us – and for good reason. It combines structured teaching, hands-on clinical experience, and modern learning technology to help students build confidence and competence in practice.
If you’re an employer considering this delivery model for your SVNs, or you’re considering applying for the diploma and want to understand how it works, here’s a clear guide to what Live Online veterinary nurse training involves:
What is Live Online veterinary nurse training?
Live Online is our new delivery model for the Level 3 Diploma / Apprenticeship in Veterinary Nursing (Companion Animal). It blends:
- Day release theory lessons in our online classroom
- Online learning activities between sessions
- Practical skills training days in-centre (approx. 10 days during the programme)
- Free access to Virtual Reality anatomy and physiology, and OSCE preparation software
- Day-to-day learning via employment or a placement in veterinary practice
How do Live Online lessons work?
Students attend regular timetabled virtual lectures delivered by tutors through our innovative online teaching platform. These sessions are interactive and designed to mirror the engagement of a physical classroom. Activities can include:
- Group discussions and live chat
- Breakout room tasks
- Polls and Q&A sessions
- Research and problem-solving exercises during class
Sessions are recorded so students can revisit material for revision and consolidation. Theory exams may be taken online via remote invigilation or in person at a training centre.
What learning happens outside Live Online lessons?
Live Online students also complete independent online learning activities before or after their scheduled classes. These tasks help prepare them for upcoming topics and reinforce key knowledge.
Students typically access this material through our advanced Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), where they can view lesson resources, submit assignments, track their progress and access recorded sessions. This structured digital support helps keep learning organised and accessible.
Do students still attend sessions in-centre?
Yes – practical, hands-on training remains an essential part of our veterinary nurse training. The majority of practical learning takes place within the student’s veterinary practice, supported by a clinical supervisor.
Live Online students also attend a training centre for approximately 10 days across the programme to complete practical skills training. These sessions focus on developing and refining clinical techniques in a purpose-built learning environment.
Where do practical skills days take place?
As one of the UK’s most established veterinary nurse training providers, we deliver practical skills days from centres across the UK.
Satellite training centres
Many of our satellite centres are based within modern veterinary environments, giving students access to high-quality facilities. Current satellite locations include:
- Blue House Veterinary Centre, Stoke-on-Trent (Biddulph)
- GSPCA, Guernsey
- Kernow Farm & Equine, Bodmin
- Pool House Equine Clinic, Lichfield
- Pride Veterinary Referrals, Derby
- Sussex Equine Hospital, Horsham
- Wheelhouse Veterinary Centre, Chorleywood
- Willows Veterinary Centre, Solihull
CAW Training Centres
In addition to satellite locations, we operate dedicated training centres in Huntingdon, North London, Wigan, Leeds, and Edinburgh. These centres are easily accessible by car and feature practical skills facilities, lecture rooms with video conferencing facilities, and comfortable breakout spaces for students.
Together, these centres ensure students receive high-quality practical training in well-equipped, professional learning environments – while still benefiting from the flexibility of the Live Online model.
What technology supports Live Online learning?
Our students have access to modern technology and learning tools such as:
Virtual Classrooms
Tutors deliver engaging sessions using audio, video, slides, chat, polls, and breakout rooms, allowing real-time interaction.
Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)
A web-based system that hosts learning materials, lesson recordings, assignments, assessments, and progress tracking.
Virtual Reality (VR) Clinical Skills
We are the first veterinary nurse college in the UK to incorporate VR into training. All CAW veterinary nursing students will be granted a license to use our anatomy and physiology, and OSCE preparation VR software. As well as exploring the anatomy and physiology of animals, students can practise OSCE-style tasks such as taking x-rays, packaging samples, and identifying parasites – helping build muscle memory and reduce exam anxiety.
When can students start the programme?
We offer multiple start points during the year for students who are not yet working in a veterinary practice. If you’re already employed in practice, you can start your training at any time. View the next start dates here.
How are employers supported?
Whether you’re thinking about taking on another student veterinary nurse, looking to switch training providers, or want to become a Training Practice (TP) for the first time, we work in partnership with employers to support both the learner and the practice. This includes:
- Free clinical supervisor training and standardisation events
- Ongoing support from a dedicated IQA team member
- Guidance with the Training Practice (TP) approval process where required
- Access to a resource-rich VLE, eLibrary, and supervisor forum
- Opportunities for discounted CPD, including Clinical Supervisor Congress
Would you like to discuss how we can support your practice? Request a call back here.
Why is Live Online growing in popularity?
Supporting more sustainable learning
Students only need to travel to their chosen training centre for around ten days across the entire programme for practical skills training (and exams if they prefer to sit these in person). Reducing regular travel helps lower the overall carbon footprint associated with training.
Ongoing support for students and employers
We provide extensive support throughout the programme. Students benefit from regular one-to-one sessions with their tutor and 24/7 access to digital wellbeing and learning resources. Employers are supported too, with free clinical supervisor training, guidance from a dedicated IQA team member, and assistance with the Training Practice approval process where needed.
Innovative learning tools and resources
Students have access to CAW’s advanced learning technology, including a comprehensive Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), interactive virtual classrooms, and a virtual reality clinical skills platform designed to help prepare for practical exams and build confidence.
Flexible start dates year-round
There are multiple start points throughout the year for those who are not employed in a veterinary practice. Students already working in a veterinary practice can begin their training at any time that suits both them and their employer.
I’d like to find out more about how Live Online. What next?
If you are an employer and would like to discuss how we can support your veterinary practice with veterinary nurse training, request a call back here.
If you are an applicant who wishes to start live online veterinary nurse training, you can apply here.