Units of study:

• Principles and practices of animal handling and care in the veterinary environment
• Principles and practices of assisting with care in the veterinary environment
• Principles and practices of administrative duties in the veterinary care environment

Learners following this apprenticeship will have to achieve a framework of qualifications which will include:

• CQ Level 2 Diploma for Veterinary Nursing Assistants
• Essential skills at level 1 ( AON, Communication and digital literacy)

Following successful completion of the apprenticeship students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide care to animals within the veterinary practice setting under the direction or supervision of a Veterinary Surgeon or Registered Veterinary Nurse.
On completion of the Level 2 Foundation Apprenticeship, Apprentices may be able to progress to become a student veterinary nurse, subject to meeting the enrolment requirements set by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons for Student Veterinary Nurses.
Opportunities for progression may be:

• Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing - Small Animal Practice
• Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Companion Animal)
• Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing - Equine Practice
• Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Equine)
• Apprenticeship in Veterinary Nursing Apprenticeship in Animal Care
• Level 3 Diploma in Animal Care.

Modules are assessed via assignments. Each assignment is made up of:

• A series of practical marking checklists and case studies which assess the competency elements of the qualification and should be completed and kept in a portfolio of evidence
• A number of written tasks that assess the knowledge elements of the qualification such as reports, leaflets, handouts, case studies, written tests, posters, or presentations

Students will be required to source and purchase their own personal protective equipment (PPE).

You will need to provide your own stationery and there may also be additional costs if the department arranges educational visits.

Paid employment at a veterinary practice for a minimum of 2 days per week. The veterinary practice must provide the student with a mentor/supervisor in the workplace, either a qualified Veterinary Nurse or Veterinary Surgeon or someone who has significant and current experience within veterinary practice.

There are no formal academic entry requirements for learners undertaking this programme.