We have just introduced an in-house training scheme to develop the veterinary nurses of the future.
We have become an RCVS-approved training centre and have started our inaugural course.
The initial plan is to train two student nurses each year as well as welcoming up to three undergraduate veterinary nurses who will be completing block placements as part of their degree course.
The training scheme began last month and features two of our practice’s animal care assistants, Anna Sharland and Amy Burrough, who will also be enrolled for further training at Lynwood School of Veterinary Nursing.
Helen Bye, Cave’s deputy head veterinary nurse, said: “RVNs are currently in high demand so this is a perfect time to put ourselves on the map as a centre of excellence which produces diverse and experienced nurses.
“Firstly, we will now be able to provide our current cohort of animal care assistants with an opportunity to study and train as student veterinary nurses, facilitating the growth of our own, expanding team of nurses.
“Our recognition as a training practice will also extend the scheme to undergraduate veterinary nurses completing block placements throughout their degree course.
“We hope to put forward two student nursing candidates each academic year and support two to three undergraduate students from university each year.
“Being able to train nurses will help with the retention of current associates by providing avenues for further training and opportunities to gain qualifications, enabling progression in their chosen careers as a veterinary nurse.
“Training student nurses also gives opportunities for our current RVNs to progress their own skills as mentors and clinical coaches, enabling them to gain further job satisfaction and purpose in their role.”
The Veterinary Nursing Level 3 Diploma takes between two and three years to complete and involves self-study, weekly college attendance and mentoring within the practice to achieve evidence-based nursing skills, plus theoretical and practical examinations.
