Recruiting skilled, committed staff in the animal care sector has never been more important — but it doesn’t have to come with a high upfront cost. Training an animal care apprentice through The College of Animal Welfare allows employers to grow their workforce while benefiting from significant government funding and financial incentives. Apprenticeships: a cost-effective […]
The College of Animal Welfare News Blog
Government-Funded Animal Care Apprenticeships Explained
New ILM Modular Leadership and Management Courses Coming this Summer
The ILM have announced a shake up of its leadership and management courses for 2026; moving towards a much more modular, human-centred, and “future-ready” structure. The new courses will be offered at levels 2 (team leaders), 3 (junior managers) and 5 (middle managers and department heads). The big shift is to be modular and flexible […]
CAW Achieves Disability Confident Committed Status
We are delighted to share that we have officially achieved Disability Confident Committed status, the first level of the Disability Confident scheme. This is a meaningful milestone in how we continue to build an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. What is Disability Confident?Disability Confident is a Government initiative designed to support employers in improving […]
CAW Students’ Programme Choices Reduce Carbon Emissions and Saves Them Money!
The College of Animal Welfare (CAW) is proud to announce significant strides in environmental sustainability, having saved nearly 130 tonnes in carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions during 2025 through students choosing programmes that utilise innovative Live Online learning over traditional face-to-face classroom attendance. In addition to the environmental benefits, students are also making their own financial […]
What is Live Online Veterinary Nurse Training?
Live Online learning is becoming an increasingly popular delivery model for Student Veterinary Nurses (SVNs) studying the Level 3 Diploma / Apprenticeship in Veterinary Nursing with us – and for good reason. It combines structured teaching, hands-on clinical experience, and modern learning technology to help students build confidence and competence in practice. If you’re an employer considering this delivery model for your SVNs, or you’re considering applying for the […]
Announcing the 2026 Laura Turnbull Bursary — Now Open for Applications
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 […]
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 […]