VNCAB programme related FAQs

• What does ‘dual campus’ mean to my programme?

Bristol Veterinary School uses both the Langford campus and the main university campus in Bristol city centre. Teaching may be scheduled on either campus, but you will not be required to travel between them on the same day. Transport is provided for teaching based at Langford, and there are also regular public buses running between the two campuses. 

• What are Day One Skills, Competences, and Professional Behaviours:

Student Veterinary Nurses must achieve minimal essential requirements and graduate from a RCVS approved programme in order to be eligible to join the Register of Veterinary Nurses: RCVS Day One Competences, Skills and Professional Behaviours for Veterinary Nurses: Introduction - Professionals

• What species will I work with whilst on the programme:

You are required to work with a variety of species such as companion animals, horses and exotics. Where possible we use live animals in our teaching, however, in some instances models are required. You can expand the range of species that you work with whilst undertaking placements/rotations and when considering your dissertation topic.

• What types of activities will I need to carry out whilst studying

Throughout the programme you will be expected to undertake manual handling tasks such as lifting and moving a range of species that may vary drastically in weight and size. You will also be required to complete tasks that require a significant level of manual dexterity such as the setting up of fluid lines and placing intravenous catheters. A large part of being a veterinary nurse is being able to communicate effectively, you will therefore be required to undertake timetabled communication sessions, tutorials with a personal tutor and showcase communication skills whilst in a veterinary practice. You will also be expected to complete a Behavioural Tool: Part D: Professional behaviours and attributes - Professionals whilst on Placement and Rotations to evidence how you develop as a professional.

• What types of activities will I need to carry out once I am qualified

The tasks that you are required to carry out will depend on the position that you take on once you are qualified. Roles within the veterinary profession are quite varied, so do make sure that you question your potential employers about exact expectations.

Code of Professional Conduct for Veterinary Nurses - Professionals

• How will I be assessed:

A range of assessment techniques are used from Open Book to Single Best Answer and Multiple Short Answer question exams. Students will undertake assignment writing, reflective writing and a final year Dissertation project to include a pre-recorded presentation. Throughout the programme students will practice practical skills to support them with their OSCEs (Objective Structured Clinical Examination ). Whilst in the third year students will complete a Nursing Progress Log: Part B: Day One Skills for Veterinary Nurses - Small animal - Professionals and Behavioural Tool: Part D: Professional behaviours and attributes - Professionals. Assessment will be on-going throughout the programme and will be both formative and summative.

• Is there a time limit for completing my programme?

VNCAB: Yes, five years

• What are the requirements for placement/EMS and rotations?

In addition to your timetabled sessions you are expected to complete clinical rotations and placements: Key information | Bristol Veterinary School | University of Bristol