Author Archives: Amber Tennant

Can you start veterinary nurse training without experience

Can You Start Veterinary Nurse Training Without Experience in a Veterinary Practice?

One of the most common questions aspiring veterinary nurses ask is whether they can begin training without having worked in a veterinary practice before.

It is possible to begin veterinary nurse training without prior employment or experience in a practice. Some students start their journey with little or no professional experience working with animals. However, while experience is not always required to start training, it is very valuable and will support your application to study veterinary nursing.

Here, we explore why work experience is important, the types of work experience you could seek, and veterinary nurse training options for people without experience:

Why experience is helpful

Veterinary nursing is a hands-on profession, and working in a clinical environment can be very different from what people expect. Spending time in a veterinary practice, even for a few days of shadowing or volunteering, can give you a clearer understanding of what the role really involves.

Practices can be fast-paced and emotionally demanding environments. Veterinary nurses support animals through illness, injury, and surgery, and they also work closely with pet owners who may be worried or upset. Gaining some experience beforehand can help you decide whether this is the right career path for you. It can also strengthen your application by demonstrating commitment and motivation to work in the profession.

What’s more, work experience can sometimes lead to employment in a veterinary practice. If you do secure a role, you may be able to train as a veterinary nurse through an apprenticeship, allowing you to gain practical experience in practice while studying towards your qualification at the same time.

Where can you gain work experience?

If you’re looking to strengthen your veterinary nurse application, there are several places where you can gain valuable experience working with animals or observing clinical environments:

  • Veterinary practices
  • Animal charities and rescue centres
  • Kennels and catteries
  • Farms or equine centres
  • Pet shops or animal-related businesses

Gaining experience in any of these settings can help you develop confidence, improve your understanding of animal care and demonstrate your commitment to a career working with animals. Even a small amount of experience can make a difference when applying for veterinary nurse training.

How can you find work experience?

Finding work experience in a veterinary or animal care setting can take time and persistence, but there are several simple ways to get started.

A good first step is to research local veterinary practices, animal charities, kennels or farms and contact them directly. Some placements are not formally advertised, so sending a polite email or visiting in person to introduce yourself can be effective. It’s important to explain your interest in veterinary nursing, highlight any relevant skills, and show flexibility with your availability.

You can also keep an eye on job boards and social media, where practices and training providers sometimes advertise work experience opportunities or entry-level roles. Being proactive and following up on enquiries can make a big difference, as placements are often limited and in high demand.

If you’re finding it difficult to secure a placement straight away, don’t be discouraged. Gaining experience in other animal-related settings, such as shelters or kennels, is also valuable and can help you build towards a future opportunity.

For more detailed advice and practical tips, read our full article on gaining work experience or employment in a veterinary practice.

Training options for applicants without employment or experience at The College of Animal Welfare:

Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing

We offer a three-year training option for the Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Companion Animal) specifically designed for students who are not currently employed in a veterinary practice. Experience in a veterinary practice is not required to apply, however you will be required to undertake work experience within the first three months of being on programme in order to make sure that this is the career for you. Assistance is available from the college to support applicants seeking work experience. Read more about this option.

So, can you start veterinary nurse training without experience?

Some people begin veterinary nurse training without prior experience in a veterinary practice. However, gaining some experience beforehand, through volunteering or short work placements, can provide valuable insight into the profession and help you decide whether veterinary nursing is the right career for you.

If you do secure employment in a practice, you may be able to train as a veterinary nurse as part of an apprenticeship while working. If not, there are still recognised training pathways available that allow you to start your studies and work towards gaining the clinical experience needed to qualify.

The most important qualities are enthusiasm for animal welfare, commitment to learning, and the determination to develop the skills needed to support animals and their owners in veterinary practice.

Ready to start your veterinary nurse training? Explore courses here…

A female student sitting on a sofa reading a book

Balancing Work and Study: Tips for Looking After Your Mental Wellbeing (National Work Life Week and World Mental Health Day 2026)

Studying for a qualification can be rewarding, but fitting your studies around work, placements and everyday life isn’t always easy. As deadlines and other commitments begin to build up, it can sometimes feel like there simply aren’t enough hours in the day.

With National Work Life Week and World Mental Health Day both taking place this week, it’s a good opportunity to think about how you’re managing your different commitments and whether you’re making enough time to look after yourself too.

Finding a good balance is about finding a routine that feels manageable and sustainable for you. Here are some tips that may help.

Plan your week realistically

Planning ahead can make a busy week feel much more manageable. At the start of each week, take a look at your lessons, work or placement hours, upcoming deadlines and any other commitments you have.

Think realistically about how much time you have available for studying and try to break larger pieces of work into smaller tasks. Leaving some flexibility in your schedule can also help when unexpected things crop up.

Most importantly, avoid filling every available hour. Your plan should include time to switch off too.

Recognise when your balance isn’t working

Everyone has busy periods, particularly around assignments, assessments or exams. However, feeling constantly overwhelmed or as though you’re always trying to catch up could be a sign that something needs to change.

You might notice that you’re struggling to concentrate, regularly losing sleep, becoming more irritable or finding that you have very little time to do things you enjoy.

Recognising these signs early gives you an opportunity to look at your workload, reconsider your priorities and ask for help if you need it.

Make time to switch off

When you’re balancing several commitments, downtime can sometimes feel like time you should be using to get something else done. But regularly taking time away from work and studying is important for your wellbeing.

Whether it’s seeing friends and family, exercising, spending time outdoors, enjoying a hobby or simply having a quiet evening, try to make space for activities that help you relax.

Even during a busy study session, taking short breaks can help you return to your work feeling refreshed and ready to concentrate again.

Read our 10 simple self-care ideas to boost your wellbeing here.

Set boundaries where you can

Having some separation between your studies, work and personal life can make it easier to switch between them.

You might decide that you won’t study beyond a certain time in the evening, keep one evening each week free from college work or avoid checking emails and your VLE when you’ve set aside time to relax.

Your boundaries will depend on your individual circumstances, and there may be times when you need to be flexible. The important thing is to avoid feeling as though you should always be working or studying.

Don’t compare yourself with other students

It can be tempting to compare how much you’re doing with the people around you, particularly if somebody else appears to be managing everything easily.

Remember that everyone’s circumstances are different. Other students may have different working hours, financial commitments, caring responsibilities, travel times or support networks.

Instead of measuring your progress against somebody else’s, focus on finding a routine that works for your own circumstances.

Look after the basics

When life gets busy, some of the simplest things can be the first to slip.

Getting enough sleep, eating regularly, staying active and taking breaks can all support your physical and mental wellbeing. You don’t need to completely overhaul your routine – small changes can make a difference.

This could be as simple as taking a proper lunch break, going for a walk after studying or making sure you aren’t regularly staying up late to finish college work.

Ask for support when you need it

You don’t have to wait until you’re feeling overwhelmed before asking for support.

At The College of Animal Welfare, you can speak to your tutor or head of course if you’re struggling with your studies or finding it difficult to manage your commitments. Students can also access up to six free, confidential counselling sessions, as well as Togetherall, a 24/7 online mental health and wellbeing service. You’ll also find health and wellbeing resources in the Living Well area of the VLE.

Find out more about the support available on our Health and Wellbeing page.

There’s no single formula for achieving the perfect work-life-study balance. Some weeks your studies may need more attention, while at other times work, family or other commitments might take priority. What matters is recognising when things are becoming difficult to manage and giving yourself permission to make adjustments.

This National Work Life Week and World Mental Health Day, take a moment to think about your own routine. Is there something you could change to make your week feel more manageable? It could be planning ahead, protecting an evening for yourself, taking more regular breaks or simply speaking to someone when you need support.

Small changes can help you build a routine that supports both your studies and your wellbeing – not just during October, but throughout your time at college.

Is Your Dog Grooming Business Ready for an Apprentice

Is Your Dog Grooming Business Ready for an Apprentice? A Simple Self-Assessment for Employers

If your dog grooming salon is busy and you’re thinking about growing your team, you might be asking yourself: can my salon take on an apprentice?

The good news is that many dog grooming businesses are already well suited to employing an apprentice, often without realising it. Our Level 2 Dog Groomer Apprenticeship is designed to work around busy salons, with structured support from us to make the process manageable and realistic.

This short self-assessment will help you decide whether a dog grooming apprenticeship could work for your business.

A quick self-check for employers

You may already be ready to take on a dog grooming apprentice if most of the following sound achievable:

  • You have a genuine role available with regular work
  • You’re happy to employ someone and pay the appropriate wage
  • You can support learning as part of everyday salon work
  • You’re open to guidance from a training provider
  • You can allow time for off-the-job training (with support)

If you’re nodding along to most of these, there’s a strong chance an apprenticeship could be a good fit for your salon. If you’re unsure about any of them, we can help provide some clarity, so it is worth requesting a call back to discuss whether an apprenticeship could work for your business.

What being “ready” means for employers

Employers don’t need to be experts in dog grooming apprenticeships before getting started. In reality, a lot of the structure, paperwork, and compliance is guided by the training provider. What you’ll need to think about is:

A genuine job role

You’ll need a real role with a contract of employment that lasts long enough for the apprentice to complete their dog grooming apprenticeship. The role should allow the apprentice to gain new skills and knowledge.

Supporting learning in the salon

Dog grooming apprenticeships are about learning alongside work. Employers are expected to support development by allowing time for practice and observation, offering guidance and feedback, and encouraging questions and reflection. However, you don’t need to “teach lessons”, as your training provider will deliver the formal learning and assessment.

Off-the-job training (made simple)

Apprentices must complete at least six hours per week of off-the-job training. This is often broader than employers expect and can include:

  • Time spent undertaking college work e.g. working through online course materials or taking part in lessons
  • Shadowing experienced groomers
  • Workplace demonstrations or tutorials
  • Portfolio work, assignments, or projects
  • One-to-one mentoring in the salon

Your provider will help you plan this so it fits around your business rather than disrupting it.

Wages, administration, and paperwork

You will need to pay your apprentice the correct wage for their age, complete and sign some apprenticeship paperwork, and log basic updates on hours and progression. In practice, many training providers can support employers with all of this, making it far more straightforward than many people expect — especially for first-time apprenticeship employers.

Already have someone in mind?

You don’t always need to advertise for an apprentice. For example, if you already employ a bather, assistant, or junior team member, a Level 2 Dog Groomer Apprenticeship can often be used to upskill existing staff, as long as the role involves substantial new learning for them. Your training provider can assess whether:

  • The individual is eligible
  • The role meets apprenticeship requirements
  • The apprenticeship adds genuine value

This can be a great way to reward loyalty and create clear progression within your team.

How a training provider can support you

For most dog grooming businesses, the first step to getting started with apprenticeships is choosing an apprenticeship training provider. A good provider will:

  • Help confirm whether your salon is ready
  • Explain how dog grooming apprenticeships work
  • Explain funding and wage rules clearly and check your funding eligibility (many dog employers can access government funding and financial incentives to help cover apprenticeship training costs)
  • Guide you through recruiting and onboarding your dog grooming apprentice
  • Help plan off-the-job training
  • Guide you through paperwork and ongoing requirements

This is especially helpful if you’re hiring an apprentice for the first time, as it removes much of the admin and uncertainty from the process.

Ready to recruit a dog grooming apprentice?

At The College of Animal Welfare, we deliver the Level 2 Dog Groomer Apprenticeship as a work-based course with online learning – perfect for both newcomers to the dog grooming industry, as well as current members of your team who wish to undertake a formal dog grooming course.

This apprenticeship is available anywhere in England, and is a practical option to develop skills within your business. Plus, there are clear benefits for employers:

  • Apprentices can start at any time and train in your workplace.
  • Apprentices can be full or part-time.
  • Apprenticeship fees are fully funded for those under 25 years of age working for small/medium (non-levy paying) employers.
  • Small/medium businesses who do not pay the Apprenticeship Levy can receive up to £3,000 in incentive payments if they take on a new apprentice*
  • The national minimum wage for apprentices is just £8 per hour (April 2026).
  • We can help you recruit, screen candidates and even arrange interviews if you want to recruit a new apprentice – all for free!
  • Experienced dog grooming tutors provide ongoing support to both you and your apprentice.
  • No college attendance required – instead, your apprentice attends one afternoon per week of online lessons, and will have an allocated tutor to support them.
  • We have over 10 years’ experience delivering dog grooming training and supporting employers, with tried and tested methods of course delivery and student support.

*£1,000 incentive to any employer training an apprentice aged 16-18 years of age, £2,000 incentive to non-levy employers recruiting a new apprentice aged 16-24 years of age.

If you’re new to apprenticeships and wondering how they can work for your business, you can download our FREE Employer Guide to Apprenticeships here.

Alternatively, if you would like have an informal chat with our team about your options, you can request a call back here.

Find out more about the Level 2 Dog Groomer Apprenticeship here.

Please note that all information is correct at the time of publishing and may be subject to change.

New £2,000 incentive for non-levy paying employers recruiting young apprentices

Thinking about taking on an apprentice? New incentive payments could make growing your team more cost effective than ever!

From 1 October 2026, eligible employers (small and medium-sized businesses that do not pay the Apprenticeship Levy) may be able to receive up to £3,000 in incentive payments if they take on a new apprentice, broken down as below:

  • £2,000 incentive for recruiting a new apprentice aged 16–24 years of age (they must not have been employed for more than 3 months before the start of their apprenticeship).
  • £1,000 incentive in addition if the apprentice is aged 16–18 years.

In addition to this, apprenticeship fees are now fully funded for under 25s employed by small/medium sized (non-levy paying) businesses.

The payments are designed to encourage more employers to give young people the opportunity to start their careers through an apprenticeship.

Better still, taking on an apprentice offers a number of other advantages:

  • The National Minimum Wage for apprentices is currently just £8 per hour (from April 2026).*
  • Apprentices can work full or part-time.
  • Apprentices can be new members of the team or existing staff looking to upskill.
  • Apprentices can be any age over 16.
  • If you want to recruit a new apprentice, we can advertise your vacancy for free. We can even screen candidates and arrange interviews for you if you wish.

Interested in taking on an apprentice and want to check whether you’re eligible for incentive payments and funding? Request a call back and a member of our friendly team will get in touch.

Explore the apprenticeship programmes we offer here.

Please note that all information is correct at the time of publishing and may be subject to change.

Black History Month at The College of Animal Welfare

Black History Month 2026 at The College of Animal Welfare

Throughout October, The College of Animal Welfare is proud to observe Black History Month, an opportunity to explore Black history, culture and achievements while learning more about the experiences and contributions of Black people in the UK and around the world.

Black History Month provides an opportunity to learn about stories and achievements that have historically been overlooked, while recognising the individuals and communities who continue to make a difference today.

Why is Black History Month important?

Black History Month encourages us to learn more about Black history and recognise the contributions Black people have made across society, including in areas such as science, healthcare, education, literature, the arts, business and public life.

It is also an opportunity to reflect on the importance of representation, equality and inclusion, and consider the part we can all play in creating environments where people feel respected and valued.

How can you get involved?

Throughout Black History Month, we encourage our students and staff to take the opportunity to learn, reflect and get involved.

There are plenty of ways to participate:

  • Learn – Explore books, documentaries, podcasts and articles that can introduce you to different aspects of Black history, experiences and culture.
  • Support – Discover and support Black authors, artists, creators and businesses.
  • Reflect – Consider what inclusion means in your own college, workplace and community, and the small actions we can all take to help others feel respected and included.
  • Get involved – Look out for details of Black History Month activities taking place at CAW throughout October.

Black History Month at CAW

We’ll be marking Black History Month with opportunities for our College community to get involved, learn more and start conversations.

Further information about this year’s activities, including details of any online sessions and how to take part, will be shared with students and staff.

We hope you’ll join us and take some time during October to learn something new, explore different perspectives and recognise the achievements and contributions of Black people and communities.

Together, we can continue to build a College community based on respect, understanding and inclusion.

How to Become a VCA

How to become a Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA)

If you’re interested in working with animals and would like to be part of a veterinary team, becoming a Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA) could be a career path to consider.

Veterinary Care Assistants – also known as a Patient Care Assistants (PCA) or Animal Nursing Assistants (ANA) – support veterinary surgeons, veterinary nurses and other members of the practice team, helping with the care of animals and the day-to-day running of a veterinary environment.

But how do you get started? We’re looking at some of the steps you can take towards becoming a VCA.

1. Find out whether the VCA role is right for you

Before looking at training, it’s useful to understand what working as a VCA involves.

Although working with animals is a key part of the role, VCA responsibilities can also include cleaning and preparing animal accommodation, maintaining clinical areas and equipment, preparing theatre areas, helping with reception duties and supporting record keeping.

Veterinary practices can be busy environments, and VCAs may work with animals that are unwell, frightened or uncomfortable. Being comfortable with the practical realities of the role is therefore important.

Discover if a career as a VCA is right for you.

2. Look for opportunities to gain experience and employment in a veterinary practice

Getting experience and/or employment in a veterinary practice can give you a better understanding of the profession and help you decide whether it is the right environment for you.

When looking for opportunities, consider contacting veterinary practices to ask whether they have any work experience, volunteering or VCA vacancies available. Depending on the training route you choose, gaining a position within a veterinary practice may also be necessary before you can begin a veterinary care qualification.

Find out how to gain work experience or employment in a veterinary practice.

3. Study a veterinary care qualification

Once you have secured a position in a veterinary practice, completing a veterinary care qualification can help you develop the skills and experience needed to build a successful career in veterinary care. They are often studied alongside work or volunteering in a veterinary practice.

At The College of Animal Welfare, options include:

All of our VCA training routes combine learning with practical experience in a veterinary environment, allowing you to develop relevant knowledge and skills while putting what you learn into practice.

4. Develop your practical and professional skills

Training to become a VCA isn’t only about developing animal care knowledge. Working successfully within a veterinary practice requires a range of practical and professional skills.

These can include:

  • Animal handling and husbandry skills
  • Communication
  • Teamwork
  • Organisation and time management
  • Attention to detail
  • Good observational skills
  • An understanding of hygiene and infection control
  • The ability to follow instructions
  • Confidence working in a busy environment

Experience in practice provides an opportunity to develop these skills and become familiar with working as part of a veterinary team.

5. Develop your VCA career

Once you’ve secured a position as a VCA and have some experience under your belt, you can continue building your skills and experience. There may be opportunities to take on additional responsibilities or undertake further training as your career develops. The experience you gain can also help you understand the different roles available within veterinary practice and decide where you would like your career to take you.

Read more about career progression for Veterinary Care Assistants (VCAs).

Ready to take your first step to becoming a Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA)?

A career as a Veterinary Care Assistant can be incredibly rewarding. If you enjoy working with animals, thrive in a hands-on environment, and want to be part of a team that makes a real difference, it could be a path worth exploring.

If this career path feels like a good fit, the next step is finding a way to build your knowledge and skills. For many aspiring VCAs, structured training provides a clear starting point. It introduces you to key areas like animal handling and basic clinical practices – whilst also giving you the opportunity to gain practical experience in a veterinary practice.

Veterinary Care Qualifications at The College of Animal Welfare

Our veterinary care qualifications can help you develop the skills and experience needed to build a successful career in veterinary care. They can be studied alongside work or volunteering in a veterinary practice, and they can also be a great stepping stone into veterinary nurse training in the future if you wish to do so.

Key facts

  • Get qualified in as little as 12-18 months
  • Part time or full-time study options
  • No college attendance required
  • Start at any time and study from anywhere
  • No formal academic entry requirements
  • Employment, or a voluntary placement, in a veterinary practice is required prior to application. If you are not currently employed or volunteering in a veterinary practice, read our tips and advice here.
  • Apprenticeship option available
  • Learn about animal health and welfare, animal accommodation, animal anatomy and physiology, animal handling and much more
  • Our Loans2Learn scheme can help you spread the cost of learning into smaller monthly payments.

Find out more about our veterinary care qualifications here.

What Do VCAs do

What does a Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA) do?

Veterinary Care Assistants (VCAs) – also known as Patient Care Assistants (PCAs) or Animal Nursing Assistants (ANAs) – work as part of the veterinary team, providing support with the care of animals as well as a range of practical tasks within the practice. It can be a varied role and one that is important to the everyday running of a veterinary environment.

We’re taking a look at what the role can involve, the skills needed and the opportunities it can offer to those looking to work in the veterinary profession.

What does a VCA do?

The exact responsibilities of a VCA will vary depending on the veterinary practice and their level of training and experience. Typical duties may include (but are not limited to):

  • Exercising, grooming and feeding hospitalised animals
  • Cleaning and preparing animal accommodation
  • Monitoring patients and reporting any concerns to the appropriate member of the veterinary team
  • Preparing theatre areas and equipment
  • Helping to restrain animals for treatment
  • Cleaning and maintaining clinical areas and equipment
  • Carrying out reception and administrative duties
  • Helping with record keeping
  • Restocking supplies and helping to keep the practice organised

VCAs carry out their responsibilities under the direction of veterinary professionals and work within the boundaries of their role. They work alongside veterinary surgeons, Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs), Student Veterinary Nurses (SVNs), receptionists and other support staff.

What is it like working as a VCA?

Working as a VCA is practical and hands-on. While caring for animals is an important part of the job, the role also involves cleaning, preparing equipment, maintaining clinical areas and completing administrative tasks.

VCAs may encounter animals with different temperaments and needs, including those that are unwell, anxious or uncomfortable. The veterinary environment can also be busy and priorities may change, so being adaptable and able to follow instructions is important.

There is a people-facing side to the role too. Depending on their responsibilities, VCAs may communicate with pet owners as well as colleagues across the practice.

What skills do you need to become a VCA?

A genuine interest in animal care is a good starting point. Working successfully as a VCA calls for a range of skills and qualities. These can include:

  • Good communication skills
  • The ability to work effectively as part of a team
  • Confidence handling animals
  • Patience and a caring approach
  • Good observational skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Organisation and time management
  • The ability to follow instructions and recognise when concerns should be reported to another member of the veterinary team
  • An understanding of hygiene and infection control
  • Adaptability when working in a busy veterinary environment

Where could a VCA career take you?

Working as a VCA can offer the opportunity to build practical experience within a veterinary practice and develop knowledge of animal care and the veterinary environment. Depending on your interests and career goals, progression opportunities could include:

Could becoming a VCA be a route into the veterinary profession?

A career as a Veterinary Care Assistant can be incredibly rewarding. If you enjoy working with animals, thrive in a hands-on environment, and want to be part of a team that makes a real difference, it could be a path worth exploring.

If this career path feels like a good fit, the next step is finding a way to build your knowledge and skills. For many aspiring VCAs, structured training provides a clear starting point. It introduces you to key areas like animal handling and basic clinical practices – whilst also giving you the opportunity to gain practical experience in a veterinary practice.

Veterinary Care Qualifications at The College of Animal Welfare

Our veterinary care qualifications can help you develop the skills and experience needed to build a successful career in veterinary care. They can be studied alongside work or volunteering in a veterinary practice, and they can also be a great stepping stone into veterinary nurse training in the future if you wish to do so.

Key facts

  • Get qualified in as little as 12-18 months
  • Part time or full time study options
  • No college attendance required
  • Start at any time and study from anywhere
  • No formal academic entry requirements
  • Employment, or a voluntary placement, in a veterinary practice is required prior to application. If you are not currently employed or volunteering in a veterinary practice, read our tips and advice here.
  • Apprenticeship option available
  • Learn about animal health and welfare, animal accommodation, animal anatomy and physiology, animal handling and much more
  • Our Loans2Learn scheme can help you spread the cost of learning into smaller monthly payments.

Find out more about our veterinary care qualifications here.

Two students talk to each other in front of a big stack of books, a third student sits on the books

Starting a New College Course? Tips for Settling In and Feeling Included (National Inclusion Week 2026)

Starting a new course can bring a lot of change at once. There are new people to meet, different routines to get used to and plenty of information to take in. While some students settle in quickly, for others it can take a little longer to feel comfortable and part of their new college community.

National Inclusion Week, taking place from 14–20 September 2026, is an opportunity to think about what it means to feel included and the small things we can all do to help create a welcoming environment.

If you’ve recently started your course with us, here are some things to keep in mind as you find your feet.

Remember, lots of people are new too

Walking into a new class where you don’t know many people can feel daunting. However, it’s worth remembering that many of the people around you are probably experiencing exactly the same thing.

Even someone who appears confident may be nervous about starting their course, making friends or keeping up with their studies.

You don’t need to make a group of friends immediately. Something as simple as introducing yourself to the person sitting next to you, asking someone about their weekend or chatting about an assignment can be a good starting point.

Give yourself time to settle in

Try not to put pressure on yourself to feel completely settled straight away.

Everyone adjusts to a new course differently. You might make friends during your first week, or it might take a few weeks before you start to find people you connect with. Both are completely normal.

The same applies to getting used to your course. New timetables, teaching styles, online learning platforms and expectations can take time to become familiar.

Look for opportunities to get involved

Getting involved can help you get to know other students and feel more connected to college life.

This doesn’t necessarily mean signing up for everything available. You could contribute to a class discussion, work with somebody different during a group activity, attend a student event or simply spend some time getting to know the people on your course.

Small interactions can gradually make unfamiliar surroundings and faces feel much more familiar.

Think about how you can help others feel included

Inclusion isn’t only about whether we personally feel welcome. It’s also about how our actions can make other people feel.

There are plenty of simple ways you can help create a more inclusive environment. You could invite someone to join your group, make space for quieter classmates to contribute to a conversation or check in with someone who seems to be on their own.

It’s also important to remember that your classmates may have different backgrounds, experiences, responsibilities and ways of communicating. Being open-minded and avoiding assumptions can go a long way towards helping everyone feel comfortable being themselves.

Don’t compare your experience with everyone else’s

It can sometimes seem as though everyone else has already made friends, understands exactly what they’re doing and has college life figured out.

Try not to compare your first few weeks with what you see from other people. Everyone will have different experiences, and what you see in class or on social media doesn’t necessarily tell you how someone is really feeling.

Focus instead on your own progress. Things that feel unfamiliar during your first few days are likely to become much more routine as the weeks go on.

Ask for support when you need it

Starting a new course is a big adjustment, and you aren’t expected to manage everything by yourself. If you’re struggling with your studies, finding it difficult to settle in or experiencing something that is making you feel uncomfortable or excluded, speak to someone.

At The College of Animal Welfare, you can speak to your tutor or head of course for advice and support. Students can also access up to six free, confidential counselling sessions, as well as Togetherall, a 24/7 online mental health and wellbeing service. You’ll also find a range of health and wellbeing resources in the Living Well area of the VLE.

Find out more about the support available on our Health and Wellbeing page.

National Inclusion Week is a useful reminder that creating an inclusive college community isn’t down to one person. We all have a part to play.

As you settle into your course this September, think about one small thing you could do to help somebody else feel welcome. It could be starting a conversation with someone you haven’t spoken to yet, inviting someone to sit with you or simply taking the time to listen to another person’s point of view. Those actions might seem small, but they can make a real difference to someone’s experience of starting college.

If you’re still finding your own feet, give yourself time. Starting somewhere new can take some getting used to, and there are plenty of opportunities ahead to meet people, build connections and make your college experience your own.

100% of CAW Veterinary Nursing Students Pass August OSCEs

100% of CAW Veterinary Nursing Students Pass August 2026 OSCEs

We’re delighted to share that all of our student veterinary nurses who took the August 2026 VetSkill OSCEs (practical exams) passed their exams! 

OSCEs are an important part of veterinary nurse training, giving students the opportunity to demonstrate the practical skills and knowledge they have developed throughout their studies and time in veterinary practice. 

This fantastic result reflects the hard work and commitment shown by our students as they prepare to take the next step in their veterinary nursing careers. 

It is also a reflection of the support our students receive throughout their training. From our teaching and support teams at The College of Animal Welfare to the veterinary practices and clinical supervisors who help students develop their practical skills in the workplace, many people play a part in helping our learners reach this important milestone. 

We would like to congratulate every student who completed their OSCEs in August and thank everyone who has supported them along the way. 

Find out more about our veterinary nurse training here.  

Managing First Time Managers in Veterinary Practice

How to Support First-Time Managers in Veterinary Practice

In the day-to-day life of a veterinary practice, leadership often emerges where it’s needed but not always where it was planned.

Sometimes it happens gradually – an experienced RVN starts coordinating the rota, a veterinary surgeon begins mentoring newer colleagues, or a receptionist naturally becomes the go-to person on the front desk. Other times, it’s a formal step up: a promotion into head nurse, practice manager, or team leader.

Whether they’ve grown into the role over time or been officially appointed, these are your first-time managers – and they play a crucial role in how your practice functions day to day.

While clinical and technical excellence are non-negotiable in veterinary care, they don’t automatically translate into confident leadership or effective people management. So how can practices recognise, support and develop their first-time managers to avoid overwhelm or disengagement taking hold?

Why do first-time managers need support?

Veterinary professionals are trained to deliver high standards of care, work under pressure and solve practical problems. However, what they’re not usually trained for is:

  • Managing conflict between team members or across shifts
  • Delegating tasks without micro-managing
  • Motivating and engaging teammates whose roles and pressures vary widely
  • Communicating expectations clearly and confidently

These are learned skills – and when someone is promoted without guidance, it can dent confidence and create unnecessary stress. For employers, this often shows up as hesitant decision-making, communication breakdowns, or tension within teams. Not because your new manager isn’t capable, but because they haven’t yet been given any structured support.

Supporting first-time leaders is therefore good business and great care.

How can you support new managers in veterinary practice?

So, what does practical support look like? A proactive approach goes beyond informal mentoring. It gives new managers tools, frameworks and confidence to act with purpose. Here are so

Formal, structured leadership and management training

Structured learning can make a noticeable difference in giving new managers tools, frameworks and confidence to act with purpose. Many practices are now choosing recognised leadership and management programmes designed specifically to support emerging leaders in workplace settings. Here are a few training pathways that can work well for first-time managers:

ILM Level 3 Award in Leadership and Management
Perfect for those new to leadership roles, the ILM Level 3 Award in Leadership and Management is a 12-week introductory course that builds the foundations for effective people management. The programme covers essential skills in communication, motivation, and problem-solving, supporting first-time managers to lead teams confidently and handle workplace challenges with professionalism.

At just £550, it’s an accessible first step, and you can even spread the cost using one of our Loans2Learn loans. Over two years, that’s just over £25 per month for 24 months*, making it an affordable and achievable way to begin your leadership journey. Read more about this course

*Based on current fees and interest rates. Awarding body fees not included.

Power Hour Leadership and Management Webinars
Our Power Hour CPD webinars are designed for busy veterinary professionals who want focused, practical guidance on leadership and management topics that matter most in veterinary practice. Each one-hour session tackles real-world challenges like:

  • Managing conflict in your team
  • Improving communication between clinical and non-clinical staff
  • Building resilience and emotional intelligence
  • Leading through change and growth

Join a Power Hour webinar

Real Stories: Meet Laura, Practice Manager & Leadership Alumni
After qualifying as an RVN in 2007, Laura transitioned into practice management and completed leadership and management training with us – all while balancing leadership responsibilities and family life.

“During the course I project managed building a brand-new practice as our current surgery had become too small due to rapid growth. My tutors were amazing support, encouraging me and giving me courage to lead the project. Everything I learnt on the course helped me immensely and I could use the skills in real life. I am incredibly proud of myself and thankful to the tutors who supported me to get here.”

Read the full story

Mentoring from experienced leaders

Pairing a new manager with an experienced practice leader creates a safe space to ask questions they might not raise elsewhere. A mentor can help them sense-check tricky situations, prepare for difficult conversations, and reflect on what went well (and what didn’t). This kind of guidance builds confidence much faster than leaving someone to navigate people issues alone.

Protected time to lead

It may be helpful to allow dedicated time for first-time managers to lead team check-ins, one-to-one conversations, and planning and organisation. Without this, leadership may feel like an added burden instead of a core responsibility.

Clear role expectations

New leaders often struggle because expectations are vague. A simple written outline of what they are responsible for, what decisions they can make independently, and when to escalate concerns removes uncertainty and reduces stress.

Regular check-ins with practice leadership

Short, structured catch-ups with a practice manager or partner can make a huge difference. These meetings should focus on celebrating progress, reviewing team development, and discussing leadership challenges openly. This reinforces that leadership growth is an ongoing journey, not a one-off event.

Peer support networks

First-time managers can benefit hugely from knowing they’re not alone. Encouraging them to connect with other supervisors, either within a larger practice group or through external professional networks, allows them to share experiences and solutions.

Encouraging reflective practice

Simple habits like keeping notes after challenging conversations or reflecting on team meetings help new managers recognise their progress and refine their approach. Many structured leadership programmes naturally build in this reflective element, but practices can reinforce it informally too.

Supporting first-time managers is about equipping people with the capabilities to understand different communication styles, coach and develop others, make confident decisions, and build team cohesion and resilience. When first-time leaders feel prepared, the whole practice benefits from improved morale to higher client satisfaction.

Explore leadership and management courses for veterinary professionals here.