Free Level 3 Small Animal Veterinary Nursing Course in Ipswich – Suffolk New College Suffolk Rural

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCQ

About this course

Free Level 3 Small Animal Veterinary Nursing Course in Ipswich. Classes run at Suffolk New College Suffolk Rural, full-time during the day. This one-year course covers the knowledge and practical skills needed to work as a veterinary nurse with small animals. You'll study in the classroom and complete hands-on training at an Approved Veterinary Training Practice. To join, you'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Science, Maths and English, plus at least two weeks of work experience in a veterinary practice and a confirmed placement.

Who this course is for

Please see view the course at http://www.suffolk.ac.uk/courses

Entry requirements

Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including Science, Maths and English, or a relevant Level 2 Qualification plus Science, Maths and English at Grade 4 or above. Note the Level 2 Animal Nursing Assistant Qualification can be equivalent to a Grade 4 Science. You must also have at least two week's work experience in a Veterinary Practice, and have a confirmed placement in an Approved Veterinary Training Practice.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop knowledge of animal anatomy, physiology and common diseases in small animals.
  • You'll learn how to assist with surgical procedures and anaesthesia in a veterinary setting.
  • You'll practise nursing care for small animal patients before, during and after treatment.
  • You'll understand how to handle and restrain animals safely and humanely.
  • You'll study pharmacology and how medicines are used in veterinary practice.
  • You'll learn about diagnostic procedures including laboratory tests and imaging support.
  • You'll develop professional and ethical standards required in veterinary nursing.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions at the college combined with practical, work-based training at an Approved Veterinary Training Practice. Assessment includes written examinations, practical skills assessments, and a portfolio of evidence gathered during your placement. You must have a confirmed placement in an approved practice before the course begins, as this forms a core part of how you are assessed and trained throughout the year.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Suffolk New College Suffolk Rural will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Veterinary nurse, how to become a veterinary nurse in a small animal practice
  • Veterinary nursing assistant, supporting qualified nurses in a clinical setting
  • Veterinary receptionist, using clinical knowledge in a client-facing role
  • Animal care technician, caring for animals in research or laboratory settings
  • Kennel or cattery supervisor, overseeing animal welfare and daily care
  • Veterinary practice manager, progressing into practice administration and management

What you could study next

  • Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) registration as a Registered Veterinary Nurse. Completing this Diploma and meeting RCVS requirements allows you to apply for registration, which is required to practise as a qualified veterinary nurse in the UK.
  • Level 4 or higher qualifications in veterinary nursing or animal science, for those wanting to specialise or move into teaching, research, or advanced clinical roles.

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