Cave Veterinary Specialists near Taunton has become an RCVS-approved VN training centre and launched an in-house training scheme to develop the veterinary nurses of the future.

The practice says its initial plan is to train two student nurses each year and up to three undergraduate veterinary nurses who will be completing block placements as part of their degree course.

Two of the practice’s animal care assistants, Anna Sharland and Amy Burrough, started on the new scheme last month. They will also be enrolled for further training at Lynwood School of Veterinary Nursing.

Helen Bye, Cave’s deputy head veterinary nurse (pictured right), 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."

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