The RVC launched Fellowships in Veterinary Nursing this year, enabling successful candidates to be employed members of the team while gaining invaluable experience and the RVC’s Certificate of Advanced Veterinary Nursing (CertAVN).

The CertAVN fees are covered, and the fellows can specialise in Emergency and Critical Care, Anaesthesia and Analgesia or Medical Nursing.

The first two VN fellows started in January 2025, with the fellowship running for 22 months. They joined a large team of specialised RVNs in one of the largest and most advanced veterinary hospitals in the world. Clinical Connections spoke to Siobhan Fray (Medical Nursing) and Lauren Jenner (Anaesthesia and Analgesia) about their experiences.

Siobhan said: "Throughout my veterinary nursing studies I knew I wanted to specialise in internal medicine at some stage. I qualified in July 2024 and was working in a busy first-opinion practice when I saw the Fellowship advertised. Initially, I was reluctant to apply as I questioned whether I would have the experience required. However, after reading that newly qualified nurses would be considered, I put together my application with the view that I would never be successful if I didn’t try.

“I was so excited, albeit nervous, when I was selected for an interview. I had never been to the Queen Mother Hospital for Animals (QMHA) before, and my nerves intensified when I arrived. Having only worked in small first-opinion practices, I felt like I had entered a whole new veterinary world! However, the Head Medicine Nurse and the Clinical Support Manager put me at ease as we discussed the role in detail during the interview.

“I was then given a tour of the hospital, and I knew that I wanted to be part of the team at the QMHA that delivers such excellent specialist care to patients. When I got the call offering me the position, I was so pleased that I had ignored my nerves and put myself forward. I believe there is no better place to undertake both the theory and practical elements of internal medicine training – and I am so grateful to have been given this opportunity."

“I started working at the QMHA in January and began the CertAVN in March. The team was so patient and supportive. I have been working in the Internal Medicine Service for 10 months and have learned so much. I continue to learn something new every single day.

“I absolutely love following cases through, getting to know our patients' individual personalities to make them as comfortable as possible during treatment. There is nothing better than seeing a much-loved family member be discharged home with a wagging tail or lots of purrs!”

Lauren’s experience        

Lauren said: "Since qualifying as a veterinary nurse, I’ve had a particular passion for anaesthesia and analgesia. There’s something deeply rewarding about ensuring a patient is safe and comfortable throughout a procedure. So, when I came across the RVC’s Nursing Fellowship in Anaesthesia and Analgesia, I felt it was the perfect opportunity.

“Despite my excitement, I wasn’t overly optimistic about being offered the role. I had never worked in referrals before, and the imposter syndrome was creeping in. So, when I received the call offering me the position, I was over the moon! I couldn’t wait to begin this next chapter in my career.

“At the time, I was living about two and a half hours away from the QMHA, so the first step was relocating. It was a big life change – leaving the practice I trained in and moving away from home for the first time. The adjustment took time but the support I received from colleagues and friends eased the transition.”

“Starting my new role was daunting at first. Referral nursing is fast-paced – and I was stepping into a world where many colleagues had years of advanced experience. But I quickly discovered that I was surrounded by the most wonderful, welcoming, and supportive team. Their patience and encouragement made such a difference, helping me to build confidence and feel like I truly belonged.

“I can honestly say that I’ve already learned more than I ever expected, in such a short time. I feel incredibly fortunate to be in a role that challenges me, supports my growth and fuels my passion every day."