Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel
Revised NOS Standards for VN
Following an extensive review of the jobs, skills and activities required by veterinary nurses, Lantra Sector Skills Council have announced that newly revised National Occupational Standards are now approved and ready to use.

Lantra, the Sector Skills Council for environmental and land-based industries, lead the UK wide project, which produced a revised list of skills needed for student and registered veterinary nurses to be able to do their job in a consistent and competent way. The National Occupational Standards (NOS) review gave veterinary nurses, employers and organisations the opportunity to ensure their ways of working were accurately reflected.
 
Lisa Jarvis, Industry Partnership Manager for veterinary nursing at Lantra and a RVN herself, said: “The veterinary nursing profession has had substantial changes since the last review in 2005 so this project was definitely needed. Not only do the revised NOS identify the detailed knowledge, understanding, ability and experiences somebody needs to carry out their job effectively but they also reflect the increased level of responsibility and accountability that comes with registration and new animal welfare legislation.”
 
Many veterinary nurses, employers and industry representatives from across the UK supported this extensive review. Now Lantra is calling on everyone involved in the industry to view and use the Standards. A free copy of the revised NOS is available from the Lantra website.
 
Lisa concluded: “NOS are an important tool for any business, small or large, as they help identify skills gaps and find the most relevant training and learning. NOS gives valuable information to help develop training and recruitment plans, as well as job descriptions. By making use of the Standards in this way, veterinary nursing skills and key processes can be enhanced.”
 

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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.