Veterinary Nursing - Level 3 Apprenticeship

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.

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.

With this pathway you will learn and expand your knowledge in;

• Essential veterinary nursing skills
• Anatomy and physiology
• Animal welfare, health and husbandry
• Nursing support in the provision of veterinary care
• Principles and practices of diagnostics for veterinary nurses
• Pharmacology and pharmacy support for veterinary nursing practice
• Surgical theatre practice for veterinary nurses
• Supporting anaesthesia in veterinary practice
• Relationships and accountability in veterinary nursing practice
• Health and safety in veterinary nursing practice.

You will need:

• To be aged 16 or older
• To be employed for a minimum of 30 hours per week with 20% of your normal working hours set aside for you to complete your training and study
• 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Science, English and Maths or a relevant Level 2 qualification and Functional Skills at Level 2 in English and Maths

All applicants must have an interview and assessment in English and Maths to confirm that the apprenticeship is suitable for them.

School Leavers

If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31 August in the year you begin your course, and have been resident in the UK/EU/EEA for the past 3 years, it will be free. Some courses will have other costs associated, such as for materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support when studying at college – please click here for more information.

Adults

Entry Level, Level 1, Level 2
If you will be aged 19 or older on 31 August in the year you begin your course, and have been resident in the UK/EU/EEA for the past 3 years, your course may be free. Some courses will have other costs associated, such as for materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support when studying at college – please click here for more information.