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RCVS Academy launches course to support new RVNs
The course is free and takes approximately 10 hours to complete.
Released for VNAM, ‘RVN Starting out’ supports the transition from student to RVN.

RCVS Academy has launched ‘RVN Starting out’; a new course for newly registered veterinary nurses (RVNs), released for this year’s Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month (VNAM). The course aims to provide consistent, meaningful and personalised support during the transition from student to RVN.

The course can be completed independently or with the support and guidance of a mentor, and has been designed with the RCVS veterinary nursing team. It supports early-career professional development to enable new RVNs to become competent, confident, autonomous members of the practice team.

VN Futures project manager Jill Macdonald said: “The transition from student to RVN is an exciting yet challenging time. Our RVN Starting Out course has been created to support adapting to professional responsibility, optimising workplace learning opportunities and working effectively as part of a team. The course also assists newly registered nurses with building confidence and considering their career development.”

To reflect the responsibilities that veterinary nurses now undertake, the course includes learning on key topics such as reflective practice, workplace culture, quality improvement, clinical decision-making and assertive communication. It is delivered over six modules that can be completed individually and accessed at any time.

Ms McDonald continued: “We understand how busy life as a veterinary nurse can be, and the flexible approach to learning allows nurses to complete the course in an equally flexible manner.”

The course is free and takes approximately 10 hours to complete. It can be accessed via the RCVS Academy.

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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...
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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.