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

Views sought on new VN apprenticeship standard
ian skates
The Employer Group has met a number of times, attended by FIVP chairman Ian Skates.
FIVP asks for opinions from independent practices
 
The Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices (FIVP) is seeking views on the development of a new apprenticeship standard for veterinary nursing.

FIVP wishes to convey the views of independent veterinary practices at meetings of the Employer Group, which was set up to develop the standard, in response to a government initiative to 'put employers in the driving seat of the apprenticeship programme'.

In October 2013, the government published 'The Future of Apprenticeships in England', which had four key objectives: to put employers in the driving seat, increase the quality of apprenticeships, simplify the system and give employers purchasing power.

The Employer Group has met a number of times, attended by FIVP chairman Ian Skates, to discuss the role of the veterinary nurse and develop a draft standard on the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) employers expect from a competent veterinary nurse.

Prior to joining FIVP, Mr Skates was responsible for managing the largest youth apprenticeship contract in England, Scotland and Wales and was also 'responsible officer' to OFQUAL for one of the largest vocational awarding bodies in England. He is trustee at a groundbreaking education charity specialising in innovative training for learners.

FIVP is asking independent veterinary practices to share their views on what should be included in the standards. For more information, or to share your views, email enquiries@fivp.org.uk

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

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.