Taking on a student veterinary nurse (SVN) is a fantastic opportunity to support the next generation of Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs). For many students, their placement is the first real taste of working in a veterinary practice setting. These early weeks are critical in shaping how they feel about the role, the profession, and their […]
The College of Animal Welfare News Blog
The First 90 Days: How to Help SVNs Settle into Practice and Succeed
Supervising an SVN? What you can and can’t expect from them
Supervising a student veterinary nurse (SVN) is a rewarding responsibility, but it can also raise questions about what’s appropriate to expect at each stage of their veterinary nurse training. Some students come in with a lot of confidence; others may be quiet, cautious, or unsure. Without clear expectations, it’s easy for SVNs to feel overwhelmed […]
Student Case Study: City & Guilds Dog Grooming – Joanne
Thank you to our former dog grooming student, Joanne Bolton, for talking to us about changing her career, and being so determined to qualify as a dog groomer despite her physical disabilities. We are so proud of you Joanne and all that you have achieved! I did the level 2 and 3 dog grooming at […]
Student Case Study: Meet City & Guilds Dog Grooming student, Jon.
Thank you to dog grooming student, Jon Wilkinson, for talking to us about his student experience at The College of Animal Welfare… I studied level 2 dog grooming last year and began the level 3 dog grooming in January which I am due to complete in October. My experience has been great. Studying one day […]
Standing Firm in Power and Pride: Black History Month 2025 at CAW
Every October, in the UK, we come together to observe Black History Month — a time for celebration, reflection, education, and unity. This year, the national theme is “Standing Firm in Power and Pride”, shining a spotlight on the strength, resilience, and ongoing contributions of Black communities across history and today. As a college committed […]
Making a Difference: Volunteer with the RSPCA
Are you passionate about animal welfare? Do you want to make a tangible impact on the lives of countless animals in need? Look no further than the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA)! As the leading animal welfare charity in England and Wales, the RSPCA relies heavily on the dedication and […]
Celebrating Inclusive Practice – Nominate a Staff Member Today!
We’re excited to announce the launch of a new student nominated Inclusive Practice Award that will be presented at out annual Student Awards Ceremony alongside our student award winners in November. This award is chance for our students to recognise a member of staff who has made a meaningful difference to their learning experience and […]
What Veterinary Practices Need to Know About RCVS Compliance When Training SVNs
Training student veterinary nurses (SVNs) is a rewarding and impactful way to grow your team and contribute to the profession, but it also comes with responsibilities. For practices registered as Training Practices (TPs) or auxiliary Training Practices (aTPs), staying compliant with RCVS standards is essential not only to maintain your accreditation but to ensure your […]
From Student to RVN: Mapping the SVN Journey in Practice
For many aspiring veterinary nurses, the journey begins long before their first day in practice. Often it starts with a childhood love for animals, or a personal experience that ignited a passion for caring for them. However, whilst enthusiasm is essential, transforming that passion into professional competence is a longer process. It requires not only […]
Volunteer with us at Cats Protection!
Cats Protection helps around 200,000 cats and kittens every year but we would not be able to make such as difference without the dedication of our volunteers. We’re lucky to have over 10,000 volunteers across cats Protection, contributing their time and skills across every aspect of the organisation. From rehoming cats and looking after them […]