Applications for the 2026 Laura Turnbull Bursary, a £1,000 award established in loving memory of our inspirational alumna, Laura Turnbull, are now open. This bursary, co‑funded by Laura’s family and The College of Animal Welfare (CAW), seeks to carry forward her legacy by supporting innovative veterinary nursing projects. Remembering Laura Laura trained with CAW, qualifying […]
The College of Animal Welfare News Blog
Announcing the 2026 Laura Turnbull Bursary — Now Open for Applications
Save 50% on CPD with our special offer this Valentine’s Day
This Valentine’s Day, we’ll be offering a massive 50% off any of our congresses booked and paid for online! To claim your discount, simply enter the promo code LOVECPD26 at the online checkout at any time on Saturday 14 February 2026. Browse events See what’s on sale on Valentine’s Day: ECC Congress 11 March 2026 £210 £105 […]
Volunteer Blog: Blue Cross Pet Loss Support
Gemma Binstead: Client AdvisorBlue Cross Pet Loss Support Volunteer Recently we caught up with one of our Client Advisors here at The College of Animal Welfare, Gemma Binstead, to hear all about the volunteer work she does for the Blue Cross. What inspired you to start volunteering, and how did you choose the organisation you […]
Giving Back: A Volunteer Story
Jenny Best: Academic Advisor/Personal TutorCall Companion for the Alzheimer’s Society Recently we caught up with Academic Advisor/Personal Tutor here at The College of Animal Welfare, Jenny Best, to hear all about the volunteer work she does for the Alzheimer’s society, we hope it inspires you to consider making a difference too. What inspired you to […]
Why practices with in-house SVNs thrive: a look at culture, retention and Return on Investment (ROI)
Training student veterinary nurses (SVNs) in-house may require time, planning and supervision, but for many practices, it’s a strategic investment that delivers far more than clinical support. In-house training builds a culture of learning, strengthens team retention, and can provide a real return on investment. Whether you’re already a Training Practice (TP) or considering becoming […]
Strengthen Your Veterinary Practice with Formal Training for Veterinary Care Assistants (VCAs)
Veterinary Care Assistants (VCAs) – also known as Animal Care Assistants (ANAs) and Patient Care Assistants (PCAs) – play a vital role in your practice, supporting veterinary surgeons and nurses, caring for patients, and keeping operations running smoothly. But have you considered how formal veterinary care training could take your veterinary care team to the […]
Empower the Next Generation of Veterinary Nurses with Cutting-Edge Veterinary Nurse Training from CAW
At The College of Animal Welfare (CAW), we’re committed to shaping confident, capable, and compassionate Student Veterinary Nurses (SVNs) – ready to meet the evolving demands of modern veterinary practice. That’s why we invest in the latest learning technologies and provide support for training practices across the UK. Whether you’re already training SVNs or thinking […]
Virtual Careers With Animals Day is back on Saturday 28 February 2026
If you’re looking for guidance about career and training options in the animal care and veterinary industry, there’s no better place to start than The College of Animal Welfare’s annual virtual Careers With Animals Day, taking place on Saturday 28 February 2026! During this FREE, online event you’ll be able to listen to career talks […]
The secret to building a resilient veterinary nursing team
In veterinary practice, resilience is more than just a buzzword. It’s what keeps nursing teams going through busy days, emotional cases, and the ongoing challenges of recruitment and retention. While resilience is often spoken about in individual terms, team-level resilience – how people support and strengthen each other – plays an equally vital role. So, […]
Why Apprenticeships Make Sense for Veterinary Practices
Running a successful veterinary practice depends on having a skilled, motivated, and adaptable team. Whether it’s your veterinary nurses, receptionists, or practice managers – investing in staff development is key to providing the best care for your patients and clients. One of the most effective and affordable ways to grow your team’s skills is through […]