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 […]
The College of Animal Welfare News Blog
What Makes a Great Clinical Supervisor or Assessor?
From Newly Qualified to Confident Leader: Why Coaching and Mentoring Skills Matter for Veterinary Nurses
Stepping into practice as a newly qualified veterinary nurse is an exciting milestone. After years of study, placements, and assessments, you are finally part of the clinical team, contributing directly to patient care and client experience. However, many newly qualified nurses quickly discover that qualification is just the beginning of a new learning curve. In […]
Reflecting on the 2026 Head Nurse Congress: A Day of Insight, Energy and Engagement
Following our recent virtual one-day Head Nurse Congress, we caught up with this year’s Chair, Kirsty Jones, to hear her highlights and reflections from the day. Connection, Learning, and Leadership As Chair of this year’s Head Nurse Congress, I felt incredibly privileged to bring together veterinary professionals from across the UK for what proved to be a […]
Animal Care and Welfare Manager Apprentices Achieve Distinction Success
We are very excited to announce that all three of our very first Level 3 Animal Care and Welfare Manager apprentices, Marnie, Soline and Rae, have achieved Distinction grades following their End Point Assessment (EPA) with VetSkill. Throughout their apprenticeship, all three students demonstrated a high level of commitment, professionalism and capability, which was clearly […]
Dog Grooming Events in the UK
Are you a professional dog groomer looking to sharpen your skills, grow your business, and stay ahead of the latest industry trends? Attending dog grooming events is one of the best ways to invest in your ongoing professional development. From national dog grooming competitions and trade shows to hands-on workshops and educational seminars, the UK […]
RCVS releases new suicide prevention resources to help practices meet new mandatory requirements
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) and Practice Standards Scheme (PSS) have come together to produce set of resources to help veterinary practices meet the new mandatory requirement for workplace-based suicide prevention plans. What are the mandatory requirements? Since 1 April 2026, the Core Standards of the Practice Standards Scheme has required all accredited […]
Mental Health Awareness Week 2026: 11-17 May
Mental Health Awareness Week (MHAW) 2026 is a valuable opportunity for us all to pause, reflect, and prioritise our wellbeing. This year’s theme, “Action”, encourages us to move beyond awareness and take meaningful steps to support both our own mental health and that of others. Whether you are studying in-centre or through distance learning, this […]
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 […]
Managing a Younger Workforce: New Challenges and New Opportunities for Line Managers
As workforce demographics continue to evolve, many organisations are preparing for a significant shift: an increase in employees entering the workplace directly from school at 16 or 18 years old. Changes in funding arrangements, skills policy, and labour market pressures are accelerating this trend, particularly in sectors facing recruitment challenges. While younger employees bring enthusiasm, […]
Become a Training Practice (TP) for FREE During Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month 2026
We’re delighted to announce that, this Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month, we’re offering veterinary practices the opportunity to become a Training Practice (TP) with us – completely free of charge! Practices that sign up between 1st-31st May 2026 will receive TP setup and approval support, plus access to our complete TP service for one year at […]