The RCVS has released its updated standards framework for veterinary nurse training.

The framework sets out the professional values, skills and behaviours required of the approved education institutions, delivery sites and training practices responsible for providing training and support for veterinary nurses.

The new version includes updates relating to sustainability and academic integrity.

Julie Dugmore, RCVS Director of Veterinary Nursing, said: “The Standards Framework for Veterinary Nurse Education and Training last underwent an extensive review in 2019, with a small interim review taking place in 2021.

“In November 2023, RCVS VN Council agreed to set up a task-and-finish group to look at the potential changes, before these changes then went to consultation back in January this year.

“Animal health and welfare and public safety is central to our standards, and it is important that we continue to review them on a regular basis with input from veterinary nurses from across the profession.

"Nurses play a central role in upholding animal health and welfare and public health, and so it is important that students receive the best training possible in order to prepare them for life in clinical practice.

“Over the summer, we held a number of educator meetings to help familiarise AEIs, delivery sites, and TPs with the new framework, in order to make the transition as smooth as possible.

The new standards came into force on 1 September 2024.

https://www.rcvs.org.uk/news-and-views/publications/vn-standards-framework

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