Veterinary Nursing – Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship

Important note: You have to be already working with a veterinary practice which has approval to train employees BEFORE you can be enrolled onto this veterinary nurse apprenticeship course.

As an apprentice, you will have a job and earn a wage whilst learning all the skills, knowledge, and behaviours necessary for a successful career within the veterinary industry.

The course combines developing your existing knowledge in veterinary nursing with building your practical experience by being directly employed by an RCVS Training Practice.

As a veterinary nurse, you should be hard-working, passionate about animals, pragmatic, and dedicated. On this pathway you will study in a flexible way – typically students attend college one day a week and work with their employer for the rest. You will also complete work-related tasks and assessments to a deadline.

Some of the tasks you may be involved with include:

• Preparing animals for surgery and performing minor surgical procedures
• Monitoring anaesthetised animals
• Nursing sick animals and administering medication
• Taking x-rays and carrying out diagnostic tests
• Advising owners on the health and welfare of their pets
• Taking bookings, payments and completing necessary paperwork
• Running nurse clinics, such as diet, worming and grooming consultations

Apprentices looking to progress in their employment from the Advanced Apprenticeship may be able to find supervisory or managerial positions such as Head Veterinary Nurse. Other options include specialising further or taking positions in other areas of the animal care industry such as animal welfare or training. The qualification can also be used as a springboard for university.