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A day in the life
- Monitor animals before and after surgery
- Prepare theatres and equipment
- Give medication and treatments under vet direction
- Run nurse clinics and advise owners
- Take samples and do lab tests
Your career roadmap
Every milestone from school to senior. Track progress as you complete each stage.
- 1Usually 2 years at school; resit courses vary
GCSEs
educationStudy GCSEs or accepted equivalents, focusing on English, maths and science for entry to veterinary nursing training.
- 2Often 1 year; apprenticeships may take longer
Relevant Level 2 preparation
educationIf needed, complete relevant Level 2 animal care study or strengthen qualifications before applying for veterinary nursing training.
- 3Around 2–3 years, including clinical training and assessment
Level 3 Veterinary Nursing qualification
qualificationComplete an RCVS-recognised Level 3 veterinary nursing qualification, combining taught study with supervised training in an approved practice.
- 4Runs alongside the Level 3 qualification
Clinical placement
experienceTrain in an approved veterinary practice alongside your Level 3 studies, assisting with patient care under supervision.
- 5Throughout clinical training
Clinical competencies
experienceDevelop and document required clinical skills, including patient monitoring, infection control and nursing care, with your clinical coach.
- 6At the end of training; scheduling varies
Final assessment
qualificationComplete the final assessments required by your qualification and, where applicable, apprenticeship, including practical assessment of veterinary nursing skills.
- 7After qualification; processing times vary
RCVS registration
certificationApply to join the RCVS Register of Veterinary Nurses after completing your recognised qualification and required training.
- 8Ongoing career
Registered Veterinary Nurse
roleWork as a Registered Veterinary Nurse, delivering nursing care, supporting procedures and advising owners within your professional competence.
Skills you'll build
- RCVS-recognised Level 3 veterinary nursing qualification
- RCVS-recognised veterinary nursing degree
- RCVS registration