You can enrol at any time and, once enrolled with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and the Awarding Body (VetSkill), can start pre-course learning and induction activities (VN Kickstart) and logging your practice hours before your classroom (virtual or in centre) lessons begin.
What does the VN Kickstart student area consist of?
The VN Kickstart student area focusses on initial learning and induction activities including course induction, preparing for study activities, Nursing Progress Log (NPL) guidance, health & safety, introduction to anatomy and physiology, and policies and responsibilities i.e. Code of Conduct, Fitness to Practise.
Once I’m enrolled with the RCVS and the Awarding Body, can I start completing practical skills activities linked to the Nursing Progress Log (NPL)?
Yes, this is one of the benefits of the RORO programme. It allows you to become accustomed to using the NPL and to potentially start claiming competency towards certain skills before starting the taught programme.
How will the taught element of the RORO programme work?
The theoretical programme is provided as day release with each unit delivered on a rolling basis. Progression from one unit to the next will be determined as and when specific achievement and progression targets are met. If you do not meet the specified targets then you will not progress onto the next unit, however this will provide opportunities for you to complete a programme re-study or focus on revision/further research in support of completion. Additionally, it will allow for focused completion of the NPL before then progressing onto the next steps. As a general rule, each unit block will be delivered on a quarterly basis.
Will there be any breaks between units?
Yes, there will be approximately three weeks of study breaks between each unit. This will allow you to continue focusing on NPL skills development and some initial preparation for the next unit alongside the opportunity to take a break.
Will there be the opportunity to complete practical skills development within centres?
Yes, practical skills development blocks will be available for you to access at the appropriate time to support your practical skills development with particular focus on preparation for the OSCEs. There will also be some sessions included within some of the units (included within scheme of work) and again, the focus will be on specific OSCE tasks.
What are the requirements for progression from one unit to the next?
You will be required to meet certain benchmarks (i.e. pass unit examinations) in order to progress from one unit to the next. These will be defined and explained within the student academic advising sessions during the first few weeks of teaching delivery.
Top-Up Degree for Registered Veterinary Nurses Undergoes Successful Revalidation
The College of Animal Welfare’s BSc Honours Veterinary Nursing Top-Up Degree, delivered in partnership with Middlesex University, has recently undergone a successful revalidation process and is now open for applications to start in September 2024.
The robust revalidation involved a consultation with current, former and prospective students on planned changes to the BSc programme. Respondents were surveyed on all aspects of the course and invited to share their experiences of what worked well and where they saw opportunity for improvement. Feedback was used to enhance the structure and delivery of the degree, to ensure it continues to meet the needs of students and wider industry.
Now delivered entirely online, on a full-time or part-time basis, the newly revalidated programme offers the opportunity for diploma and foundation degree level Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs) to top up their qualification to a BSc Honours Veterinary Nursing degree. The programme aims to provide veterinary nurses with a variety of transferable skills which will enhance their veterinary career and continue their professional development.
Throughout the course, students will deepen their understanding of veterinary nursing practice, including the latest evidence-based research and techniques in the profession. A comprehensive curriculum will see veterinary nurses studying a wide range of topics, from surgical nursing to anaesthesia and critical care, ensuring a well-rounded skill set that can meet the demands of modern veterinary practice.
Applicants must hold a Level 3 qualification or Foundation degree in Veterinary Nursing and be registered with the RCVS as a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN), or hold internationally equivalent qualifications and registration. As part of the application process, applicants must also meet the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) requirements of the programme.
Dr Catherine Hemingway BVetMed CertAVP PGCDE MRCVS, BSc VN Top Up Programme Leader at The College of Animal Welfare, said: “We’re delighted to announce the successful revalidation of our top up degree programme, a vigorous approval process which allowed us to respond to important feedback and ensure our programme remains up-to-date and fit for purpose. This significant development reflects our ongoing commitment to offering a comprehensive educational experience to our students.”
Applications to study the BSc Honours Veterinary Nursing Top Up Degree are still open to start in September 2024. For more information about the programme visit www.caw.ac.uk/vn or contact the college on 01480 422060.
Does your child want to work with animals?
Is your child passionate about animals and eager to pursue a career involving their care and wellbeing?
It’s natural to want to support your child’s aspirations, especially when they have a clear interest in something as rewarding as working with animals. After completing relevant training and work experience, there are numerous pathways they can take to turn their passion into a fulfilling career.
Here’s some more information to help you navigate the training options and roles available:
Career Options Working with Animals
With the right qualifications and experience, there are numerous career paths open to those who want to work with animals:
Does your child want to work with animals, but not sure what role they would like to work in?
If you’d like to learn more about the job roles available in the animal care and veterinary industries, you can explore our career profiles on our website, or join us for our next virtual Careers With Animals Day, where a range of organisations and industry professionals gather to deliver presentations on animal careers and answer questions.
Training options for careers working with animals
1. A-Levels and University
For those who have a specific academic career goal in mind, or are eager to experience the university life, pursuing A-Levels followed by a degree is a traditional and effective route to a career working with animals. Animal degree pathways include:
Vocational qualifications offer hands-on experience and are ideal for those who prefer practical learning, providing a strong foundation for those who wish to work with animals in businesses such as kennels and catteries, veterinary practices, animal day care centres, animal shelters and charities, stables and many more.
These qualifications often lead directly to employment or further specialised training.
City & Guilds Qualifications: These courses offer practical skills and knowledge in animal care. For example, at The College of Animal Welfare we offer City & Guilds qualifications in work-based animal care, dog grooming and horse care, as well as an extended diploma in animal management which provides a strong foundation for higher study.
Gaining practical experience is invaluable for those aspiring to work with animals. Volunteering and work experience placements can provide hands-on experience and enhance their CV, as well as help meet the entry requirements for training programmes and get a foot in the door at a workplace who may offer paid opportunities in the future. Volunteering is also a great way of learning about different animal care roles if your child is not sure what path they wish to take.
Depending on what animals they’re interested in working with, you could look for volunteer work and work experience placements at veterinary practices, animal shelters, kennels, catteries, wildlife trusts, zoos, aquariums, farms and stables.
Next steps…
Supporting your child’s ambition to work with animals involves understanding the various educational pathways and career options available. Whether through traditional academic routes, vocational training, or hands-on experience, there are numerous ways to turn a passion for animals into a rewarding career. Encourage your child to explore different options, gain practical experience, and follow their passion with dedication and enthusiasm. With the right support and guidance, they can find a fulfilling career working with the animals they love.
If you would like to chat through training options and explore the different education pathways available, please don’t hesitate to contact 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.
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, may 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.
Not employed in a veterinary practice, or struggling to find work experience?
At The College of Animal Welfare, we offer a three-year training option for those who wish to study the Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing from our Edinburgh centre, but who are not employed in a veterinary practice. If you have not undertaken any work experience, we will consider your application, however you will be required to undertake work experience within the first three months of being on programme in order to make sure that veterinary nursing is the career for you – assistance is available from the College to support you in finding work experience for this.
Whilst not a requirement for application, work experience undertaken in a veterinary practice alongside a reference from a veterinary surgeon or registered veterinary nurse supporting your suitability for veterinary nurse training will be a distinct advantage.
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.
Once you have qualified as a Registered Veterinary Nurse, you may wish to undertake additional qualifications, such as the Level 5 Diploma in Advanced Veterinary Nursing (Practice Nurse), to further your skills and knowledge. You could also consider completing the Veterinary Nursing BSc (Top Up) programme, which offers diploma and foundation degree level registered veterinary nurses the opportunity to top up their qualification to degree level.
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 the CAW Jobs Board and 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 in Scotland 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 year 1, 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 year 2,you will undertake a six month unpaid work placement in an RCVS approved veterinary training practice, followed by six months of theory lessons on a day release basis (college-based or Live Online lessons). In year 3, you will undertake six months of theory lessons on a day release basis (college-based or Live Online lessons), followed by a six month unpaid work placement in an RCVS approved veterinary training practice.
In addition, during your theory lesson blocks, you will be required to spend one additional day per week working through online course materials/private study/developing your practical skills using a virtual reality headset. When you are not undertaking college lessons, online learning or practical skills training during your theory blocks, you are able to undertake casual work (working in any type of employment) to financially support yourself during the programme.
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: Bodmin, 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
You do not need to be employed in a veterinary practice in order to apply for the programme. However, work experience undertaken in a veterinary practice alongside a reference from a veterinary surgeon or registered veterinary nurse supporting your suitability for veterinary nurse training will be a distinct advantage.
If you have not undertaken any work experience, we will consider your application, 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. 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 during your theory blocks, you are able to undertake casual work (working in any type of employment) to financially support yourself during the programme.
✓Support in finding work placements
Our dedicated placement team will use connections with over 700 veterinary practices to source an unpaid placement for your second year of training, as well as any additional placements required thereafter.
✓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, or Leeds 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 pay the course fees in one payment upfront, or apply for a CAW Loans2Learn which can be used to fully or partially cover your course fees (but does not cover any Awarding Body fees). You may also be eligible to apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to help cover the cost of training. 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: Bodmin, 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 or Literature, 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 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.
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