Chloe shares her experience as a Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA)

Chloe Evans recently completed the Veterinary Care Support: Level 2 Apprenticeship with The College of Animal Welfare (CAW) (2026). Here, Chloe tells us more about her training, her plans for the future and advice she has for those considering a career in veterinary care… I have always wanted to work in the veterinary industry as […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

Is a Career as a Veterinary Care Assistant Right for You?

If you enjoy working with animals, a career in a veterinary practice can be a very appealing option. Before taking the next step, it’s helpful to consider whether a role as a Veterinary Care Assistant (VCA) aligns with your interests and goals. It can be a rewarding and fulfilling career, offering the opportunity to support […]

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, […]

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 […]