The College of Animal Welfare (CAW) is celebrating the success of its first two students, Lianne Abel and Sammie Roberts, to qualify as Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs) through the College’s satellite training centre based inside the GSPCA in Guernsey.
The programme, delivered by CAW, combines remote lessons, in-centre practical skills training, and cutting-edge virtual reality software. Their achievement highlights the skill, aptitude, rigorous training and hard work required to become a qualified veterinary nurse.
The online learning component of the programme not only provides flexibility and accessibility for students but also contributes to reducing the college’s carbon footprint. Without the need for regular travel to the mainland for theoretical lessons, Sammie and Lianne were able to complete their studies from their home base in Guernsey, significantly cutting down on emissions from transport. This approach reflects the college’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in veterinary nurse training, ensuring education is both environmentally and socially responsible.
Reflecting on the course, Lianne Abel shared: “I was very excited to start my VN training: I had completed CAW’s VCA course the year before so I was used to virtual learning and advancing to the VN course was a smooth transition. The course itself was so brilliantly delivered with comprehensive resources and plenty of support when you needed it. I’m so pleased to be able to call myself an RVN and SQP and I’m looking forward to expanding my nursing abilities particularly in exotics and also potentially helping to guide others through the VN course as a Clinical Supervisor.”
Sammie Roberts added: “It has been such a great opportunity to be a part of the new satellite centre in Guernsey and be the first students to complete the course on the island, along with Lianne. I have loved the remote learning experience as well as connecting with other student veterinary nurses across the UK. Now I am qualified, I plan to stay at VetsForPets, gain valuable experience and further my knowledge in my specific interests.”
Alison Simpson, Head of Veterinary Nursing – Satellite Centres at The College of Animal Welfare, commended their success, “This is an important milestone for our team based in Guernsey; Sammie and Lianne’s achievement underscores the value of having a dedicated training centre on the island. Sammie and Lianne have shown great dedication and professionalism throughout their studies, and their success is a credit to their hard work.” She added, “We look forward to continuing to expand our training provision across the UK to help more students achieve their goals.”
This milestone highlights the opportunities now available locally for those in Guernsey aspiring to become veterinary nurses. By combining online learning with practical training sessions inside the GSPCA, the College offers a flexible and supportive route to qualification, and ensures students are well-prepared for the responsibilities that come with a career in veterinary nursing.
For more information about the Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing or training opportunities at The College of Animal Welfare, visit www.caw.ac.uk.
Photo caption – Lianne Abel (left) and Sammie Roberts (right).