This Independence Day, we’re shining a spotlight on the spirit of independence within the veterinary profession. On Saturday 4 July only, independent veterinary practices can access 25% off any of our 2026 Virtual One Day Congresses. If you’re part of an independent practice, we’d love to support your team’s professional development. What You’ll Gain Our Virtual One Day Congresses are built with busy veterinary professionals in mind: Listen to lectures from a range of speakers who will be […]
The College of Animal Welfare News Blog
Independents Day Offer: 25% off Virtual Congresses for Independent Veterinary Practices
Celebrating Pride Month 2026!
This June, the College of Animal Welfare is proud to come together to celebrate Pride Month, recognising and supporting the LGBTQIA+ community across our staff, students, and wider network. Pride Month is an important opportunity for us to reflect on the values that underpin everything we do — compassion, respect, and inclusion. What we have […]
Apprenticeship Changes: The good, the bad and what that means for you as an employer
FREE EMPLOYER WEBINARS Major changes to apprenticeship funding are coming from August 2026 which may affect employers of all sizes and across all sectors. To help you prepare, we’re hosting two free webinars in June where we’ll break down the proposed changes and explain what they could mean for your business, allowing you to plan ahead […]
What Makes a Great Clinical Supervisor or Assessor?
As experienced professionals, many of you will take on the role of supporting student veterinary nurses in practice. Effective clinical supervisors are central to the development of competent, confident future professionals. Key characteristics of a great clinical supervisor include: 1. Strong Clinical Knowledge Demonstrates up-to-date, evidence-based practice Explains and understands procedures clearly and safely 2. Effective Communication Provides clear instructions and […]
From Newly Qualified to Confident Leader: Why Coaching and Mentoring Skills Matter for Veterinary Nurses
Stepping into practice as a newly qualified veterinary nurse is an exciting milestone. After years of study, placements, and assessments, you are finally part of the clinical team, contributing directly to patient care and client experience. However, many newly qualified nurses quickly discover that qualification is just the beginning of a new learning curve. In […]
Reflecting on the 2026 Head Nurse Congress: A Day of Insight, Energy and Engagement
Following our recent virtual one-day Head Nurse Congress, we caught up with this year’s Chair, Kirsty Jones, to hear her highlights and reflections from the day. Connection, Learning, and Leadership As Chair of this year’s Head Nurse Congress, I felt incredibly privileged to bring together veterinary professionals from across the UK for what proved to be a […]
Animal Care and Welfare Manager Apprentices Achieve Distinction Success
We are very excited to announce that all three of our very first Level 3 Animal Care and Welfare Manager apprentices, Marnie, Soline and Rae, have achieved Distinction grades following their End Point Assessment (EPA) with VetSkill. Throughout their apprenticeship, all three students demonstrated a high level of commitment, professionalism and capability, which was clearly […]
Dog Grooming Events in the UK
Are you a professional dog groomer looking to sharpen your skills, grow your business, and stay ahead of the latest industry trends? Attending dog grooming events is one of the best ways to invest in your ongoing professional development. From national dog grooming competitions and trade shows to hands-on workshops and educational seminars, the UK […]
RCVS releases new suicide prevention resources to help practices meet new mandatory requirements
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) and Practice Standards Scheme (PSS) have come together to produce set of resources to help veterinary practices meet the new mandatory requirement for workplace-based suicide prevention plans. What are the mandatory requirements? Since 1 April 2026, the Core Standards of the Practice Standards Scheme has required all accredited […]
Mental Health Awareness Week 2026: 11-17 May
Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) 2026 is a valuable opportunity for us all to pause, reflect, and prioritise our wellbeing. This year’s theme, “Action”, encourages us to move beyond awareness and take meaningful steps to support both our own mental health and that of others. Whether you are studying in-centre or through distance learning, this […]