What Makes a Great Clinical Supervisor or Assessor?

As experienced professionals, many of you will take on the role of supporting student veterinary nurses in practice. Effective clinical supervisors are central to the development of competent, confident future professionals.  Key characteristics of a great clinical supervisor include:  1. Strong Clinical Knowledge  Demonstrates up-to-date, evidence-based practice  Explains and understands procedures clearly and safely  2. Effective Communication  Provides clear instructions and […]

“I have learnt so much on this course and can now confidently carry out skills that I didn’t think I would ever be able to do!” – Kristi O’Connell

Case Study: Kristi O’Connell “I have learnt so much on this course and can now confidently carry out skills that I didn’t think I would ever be able to do!” Kristi O’Connell has been studying the Level 3 Equine Veterinary Nurse Apprenticeship with us. We caught up with Kristi to ask her about her experiences […]

Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month 2026: How Veterinary Nurses Show Compassion and Empathy Every Day

Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month 2026 takes place this May, and this year the theme focuses on Compassion and Empathy. This month is an opportunity to recognise the many ways veterinary nurses bring compassion and empathy into their work, and the difference it makes to animals, clients, and the wider veterinary team. So what does compassion […]

What Support Do Students Receive During Veterinary Nurse Training?

Starting veterinary nurse training is an exciting step towards a career working closely with animals, pet owners and veterinary teams. At the same time, it’s completely natural to feel a little nervous about what lies ahead. Many prospective students wonder how challenging the course will be, what support they’ll receive during placements, and who they […]

Empower the Next Generation of Veterinary Nurses with Cutting-Edge Veterinary Nurse Training from CAW

At The College of Animal Welfare (CAW), we’re committed to shaping confident, capable, and compassionate Student Veterinary Nurses (SVNs) – ready to meet the evolving demands of modern veterinary practice. That’s why we invest in the latest learning technologies and provide support for training practices across the UK. Whether you’re already training SVNs or thinking […]

The secret to building a resilient veterinary nursing team

In veterinary practice, resilience is more than just a buzzword. It’s what keeps nursing teams going through busy days, emotional cases, and the ongoing challenges of recruitment and retention. While resilience is often spoken about in individual terms, team-level resilience – how people support and strengthen each other – plays an equally vital role. So, […]

Talking to Time-Pressed Clients: How to Deliver Clear Messages When Minutes Matter

In the fast-paced world of veterinary practice, not every conversation happens under ideal circumstances. Whether it’s a walk-in emergency, a busy evening clinic, or a client dashing out the door to pick up children, veterinary nurses often need to communicate effectively in very little time. But being short on time doesn’t mean the message has […]

The Ethical and Legal Landscape for Veterinary Nurses in the UK: What You Need to Know

The role of a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN) is far more than clinical skill alone. Every patient interaction, medication, and clinical decision sits within a complex ethical and legal framework. Understanding that framework is fundamental to delivering safe, compassionate, and accountable care. For many veterinary nurses, this is an area that can feel daunting. Legislation […]

Translating Vet Jargon: Ways RVNs Can Bridge the Understanding Gap for Clients

As veterinary professionals, it’s easy to forget just how overwhelming a clinical environment can feel for pet owners. When emotions are high and unfamiliar terminology is flying around, many clients leave the consult room feeling confused, anxious, or unsure about what they’ve just agreed to. That’s why one of the most valuable roles a Registered […]

Leadership Training That Benefits You and Your Whole Veterinary Team

Strong leadership is at the heart of every successful veterinary practice. Whether you’re an RVN stepping into a supervisory role, a practice manager leading a growing team, or a clinical supervisor developing future leaders, investing in veterinary leadership training can transform both your confidence and your workplace culture. Our leadership and management programmes are perfect […]