RCVS to consult on new VN qualifications framework
A consultation will be launched in early July.
Veterinary professionals are being asked for their views on a new framework for veterinary nursing qualifications post-registration.
The proposals were developed by the RCVS, after the VN Futures research project found that many nurses wanted a more structured and rewarding career path. A consultation will be launched in early July.
In time, the aim is to introduce an Advanced Veterinary Nurse status. The framework serves to offer awards after registration for an enhanced level of veterinary nursing practice, as well as specific modules for nurses at all career levels to study independently for CPD.
Julie Dugmore, director of veterinary nursing, said: “Throughout the VN Futures roadshow events nurses felt they were often entering a career cul-de-sac after a certain amount of time in practice and so the need for further post-registration qualifications which promote excellence and recognise advanced knowledge, skills, competency and experience in designated areas were strongly expressed.
“We have taken this feedback and developed it into a comprehensive framework for two defined post-registration qualifications and are very interested in hearing what both veterinary nurses and veterinary surgeons have to say about all aspects of what we are proposing.”
The two new qualifications included in the framework are a Graduate Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Nursing and a Postgraduate Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Nursing.
Once the responses have been collated, the college says it will incorporate the feedback into the framework for further consideration by the relevant committees and VN Council.
An email with a link to the consultation will be sent to all veterinary nurses and surgeons. Once launched, the survey will also be available at www.rcvs.org.uk/consultations
RCVS Knowledge has welcomed Professor Peter Cockcroft as editor-in-chief for Veterinary Evidence. 
