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RCVS awarding body officially closes
certificates
With the closure of RCVS awards, centres approved by Central Qualifications and City & Guilds now deliver the diplomas in veterinary nursing.
Resolving a conflict of interest
 
A ceremony held at RCVS headquarters in London last week marked the official closure of RCVS Awards, the former awarding body for veterinary nursing qualifications.

The college has been winding down its awarding activities over the past few years due to a potential conflict of interest.

As a professional regulator, the college's role includes the regulation of education and training leading up to the registration of veterinary surgeons and nurses.

With the closure of RCVS awards, centres approved by Central Qualifications and City & Guilds now deliver the diplomas in veterinary nursing.

Speaking at the closing ceremony last week (1 December), Virginia Pott, a former external verifier for RCVS Awards, commented: "I think it was always difficult for the RCVS to have two roles and so the closure of RCVS Awards has brought clarity to the college as a regulator".

Despite the closure of RCVS Awards, the college continues to provide the Nursing Progress Log (NPL). Whilst the closure of its awarding arm has been welcomed as a positive step, some still feel the NPL presents a conflict of interest and competes with awarding bodies that develop their own skill logs.

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.