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 […]
The College of Animal Welfare News Blog
Is Your Dog Grooming Business Ready for an Apprentice? A Simple Self-Assessment for Employers
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 […]
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 […]
Celebrating Inclusive Practice – Nominate a Staff Member Today!
Due to the success of last year’s student nominated Inclusive Practice Award, it is returning for 2026! The award will be presented to a member of CAW staff 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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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. […]
Student Veterinary Nursing Congress returns in January 2027
We’re pleased to announce that Student Veterinary Nursing Congress is back by popular demand and will be taking place on Monday 25 January 2027. Student Veterinary Nursing (SVN) Congress is a free, virtual event specifically for veterinary nursing students. With its comprehensive programme, esteemed speakers, and the convenience of a virtual format, this congress provides an […]
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 […]
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 […]