Nicole shares her journey to becoming a Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA)

After years working in retail management, Nicole Smith decided to turn her love of animals into a career in veterinary care. In 2026, she completed the City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma for Veterinary Care Assistants and has since been promoted to Veterinary Care Assistant. Here, Nicole shares what inspired her career change, her experience […]

Millie shares her journey from VCA apprentice to working in New Zealand

Millie Belfield studied the Level 2 Veterinary Care Support Apprenticeship with us. We caught up with Millie and asked her about her journey to becoming a VCA, her time on the course, and her plans for the future. My name is Millie and I began studying with CAW in April 2025 where I stepped into […]

Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA) Awareness Week to launch this November

We’re delighted to announce the launch of our very first Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA) Awareness Week, a new campaign taking place from 9-15 November 2026. Launching in 2026 and held during the second week of November each year, VCA Awareness Week aims to celebrate VCAs* and recognise the important contribution they make to veterinary practices […]

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 […]

I’m Already A Veterinary Care Assistant – Do I Need a Veterinary Care Qualification?

If you’re already working as a Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA) in a veterinary practice, at some point you may have looked at formal training options and asked yourself: do I really need a veterinary care qualification if I’m already doing the job? It’s a completely valid question. After all, you’re gaining hands-on experience every day, […]

Veterinary Nurse Vs Veterinary Care Assistant – What’s the Difference and Which is the Right Job for You?

If you’re considering a career working in a veterinary practice, you may have come across two key roles: Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs) and Veterinary Care Assistants (VCAs). Both positions support the health and welfare of animals in a veterinary practice. However, they come with different responsibilities, training requirements, and salary expectations. Here’s an overview of […]

Exploring the path from Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA) to Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN)

If you’re working as a Veterinary Care Assistant and looking to progress in your career, have you considered going on to train as a veterinary nurse? Veterinary nursing is a popular progression route for VCAs, and what’s more – your experience and qualifications may already meet the entry requirements needed to apply for the Level […]