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RCVS approves expanded exam for overseas vet nurses
The first sitting of the exam will be March 2024.
The pre-registration examination now includes a knowledge-based component.

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) Veterinary Nurse Education Committee has approved an expansion of the pre-registration examination undertaken by veterinary nurses  trained overseas.

As well as a practical exam, veterinary nurses will now be required to take a knowledge-based component to work as a registered veterinary nurse in the UK.

This pre-registration examination is a requirement for any veterinary nurse who was educated outside of the UK, and therefore does not hold a qualification that is approved by the Accreditation Committee for Veterinary Nurse Education (ACOVENE). It is also completed by holders of UK qualifications, if their educational institution is not fully accredited by the RCVS.

From March 2024, veterinary nurses completing this assessment will complete an online knowledge-based exam, alongside the usual Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) in the UK.

The exam will consist of two multiple-choice exam papers, each with 100 questions to answer. The examination is taken online, which means that veterinary nurses can complete the assessment anywhere in the world with access to a computer and good internet connection.

The first sitting of the exam will be held in the week beginning 25 March 2024, with further test dates available in summer and autumn.

Any candidate who submitted their application to have their experience and education checked for eligibility to enter the pre-registration exam after 1 November 2023 will be required to sit both components of the examination.

Julie Dugmore, RCVS director of veterinary nursing, said: “VN Education Committee approved this new exam component to ensure that we weren’t only testing candidates’ Day One skills via the OSCE, but were also making sure that they met our Day One Competences, which integrate a mixture of knowledge, skills and attitudes.”

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Central Qualifications to attend BVNA Congress

News Story 1
 Central Qualifications (CQ) is to host a stand at this year's BVNA Congress. The awarding body will be at Stand C9 from 11-13 October.

It will discuss changes to the qualifications strategy and some new qualifications, including a top-up course for equine veterinary care, so qualified veterinary nurses can broaden their skills.

Rachael Shepherd, education consultant at CQ, said: "We are looking forward to attending BVNA Congress this year. There are exciting times ahead, with a revamp to the VN qualifications and assessment strategy and the introduction of some new qualifications." 

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News Shorts
Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.