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
New VN Diploma builds momentum!



As momentum builds in support of the new VN Diploma, crucial veterinary publications have written positive reports on the progress of this qualification.  One in particular, the VN Times, heralded the roll out of the DipVN with front page coverage.

The Vn Times article stated that "a new VN diploma to rival RCVS' qualification has been finalised and is ready to be rolled out across the UK."

Although news that the Diploma still awaits VN Council approval was frustrating, the report urged colleges and training practices to register their interest, as the awarding body, Central Qualifications, was still confident for an autumn start.

Many senior RVNs and sector leaders have become involved with the new Diploma and have voiced their approval of the qualification.

In the VN Times article, nursing author and lecturer Sally Bowden said "The syllabus contains everything one would expect to find as part of a small animal veterinary nursing award, and endeavours to provide additional helpful details for students and facilitators looking for further guidance."

Fellow RVN and lecturer Annette Brisbourne also added her comment in the VN Times article: "This qualification will certainly address a large void in veterinary nurse education. It measures up to the demands of the veterinary industry, is practicable in delivery and assessment and is highly credible in the rigour of content, delivery and assessment."

Let us hope for the sake of interested colleges and eager students that the qualification is approved sooner rather than later.

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

Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.