The College of Animal Welfare (CAW) is preparing to launch a new range of leadership and management programmes aimed at head nurses and practice managers at the BVNA Congress (5-7 October).

The College says that its management programmes, which lead to professional recognition with the Institute of Leadership and Management, will raise your game and benefit animal patients in your care.

Barbara Cooper, Principal of The College of Animal Welfare, said: "As previously Head Nurse of Liverpool Veterinary School and subsequently Principal of The College of Animal Welfare I have learned that management is a professional skill not best acquired through trial and error.

"The consistent delivery of quality clinical care is built on sound management principles as well as technical know-how. Our programmes will take already highly trained veterinary professionals and equip them with the management skills that are needed to develop their careers into the higher echelons of management."

CAW has been delivering modules on business and veterinary practice management within its degree programmes since the first veterinary nurse degree programme launched in 1998. The organisation says that setting up a business and management school is the next step in raising clinical standards through effective resource and people management and developing the careers of those holding or seeking senior leadership opportunities.

Successful students may also apply for professional membership of the Institute of Leadership and Management, and thereby be permitted to use the ILM internationally recognised professional body post-nominal in recognition of the professional status that they have achieved as managers. As professional managers, such status confirms a transferrable skill that is not just limited to those enjoying working with animals.

For further information please visit www.caw.ac.uk or visit CAW's stand at Congress (where the company will also be handing out free 'Keep Calm and Trust Your Head Nurse' mugs).

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vet nurses.