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New nursing course to launch

Apprenticeship set to begin at Bicton College

Bicton College, based in Devon, has announced that it will be launching its Central Qualifications (CQ) Level 2 Veterinary Nursing Assistant programme this autumn.

From October 2013, those hoping to progress to a career in veterinary nursing will be able to join Bicton's intermediate apprenticeship, which will complement other veterinary nursing courses at
the college.

Upon completion of the CQ Level 2 Veterinary Nursing Assistant programme, students may progress on to the CQ Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing course, which will now run as a two-year, one-term model.

Bicton's comprehensive veterinary nursing courses enable students to gain the relevant knowledge and practical skills to allow them to work both safely and competently in practice.

The courses are delivered by the college's experienced veterinary nursing team, who provide a high-quality, high-standard programme, based within its purpose-built Veterinary Nursing Centre.


The apprenticeship offers an exciting and innovative approach to suit practices that need to train their nursing staff, without high costs and the demands of a Level 3 diploma.

Click here for further information or contact Bicton's employer services coordinator, Katie Court.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.