To do this you must be at least 17 years old and gainfully employed at a veterinary practice registered as an Approved Training and Assessment Centre. It may be necessary to move in order to find a suitable position but some ATAC's provide accommodation as part of the job. Two examinations must be passed before qualification as a Veterinary Nurse is granted. Once you have successfully passed the Part 1 and 2 examinations and have the full 2 years signed on your record of employment card, you can apply to the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons for a Certificate of Veterinary Nursing and be put on the list of Veterinary Nurses held by the RCVS and use the letters VN after your name. There are a number of further courses that you can undertake.
Tuition is provided by distance learning and supported by a compulsory residential course.
A written and practical examination is usually taken after a minimum period of 18 months study. There is also an opportunity to gain further qualifications in equine nursing, and in certain cases to go on and take a degree in Veterinary Nursing. Veterinary nursing fits into Levels 2 and 3. Progress will be assessed internally at approved veterinary practices and colleges as well as by external verifiers who will visit each practice. Appropriate passes in examinations of a comparable or higher standard may be accepted in lieu of the usual requirements at the discretion of the RCVS VN Review Officer.