Free Level 3 Veterinary Nursing Course in Newcastle upon Tyne

CostFREE
Duration1 hour
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceEvening
Awarding bodyVETSKILL

About this course

Free Level 3 Veterinary Nursing Course in Newcastle upon Tyne. Evening classes run at Northumberland College Kirkley Hall Campus.

This is the formal route to qualifying as a veterinary nurse. You study while working at an approved veterinary training practice. The course covers the practical skills and knowledge needed to register with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. You must already be employed at a veterinary training practice to enrol. You'll also need five GCSEs at grades A to C, including English, Maths, and a Science subject.

You'll finish with a Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Companion Animal) at Level 3.

Who this course is for

The qualification is the formal route for those wishing to qualify as a veterinary nurse. Successful completion of this qualification will enable learners to complete their enrolment with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS). This course is available to students who are working in a veterinary training practice, either as an apprentice or an employee. The programme will provideyou with the practical competence and underpinning knowledge required to join the RCVS as a registered veterinary nurse. It has been designed to develop veterinary nurses that have a holistic approach to their work, a passion for making a difference to the lives of animals, and a solid understanding of their professional responsibilities. It covers the following species: - Cats - Dogs - Rabbits

Entry requirements

The student must already be in employment at an approved veterinary training practice as a student veterinary nurse Learners must have a minimum of five GCSEs at grades 9-4 ( A*-C), including English, Maths and a Science subject. You should also meet the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons' fitness to practice guidance criteria.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop practical clinical skills used in veterinary practice.
  • You'll learn how to care for companion animals before, during, and after procedures.
  • You'll study animal anatomy, physiology, and common diseases.
  • You'll learn how to assist veterinary surgeons during consultations and operations.
  • You'll understand infection control and safe use of medicines.
  • You'll develop the knowledge needed to meet RCVS registration standards.

How you will learn

Classes are delivered in the evening at Northumberland College Kirkley Hall Campus. You combine classroom learning with hands-on work at your veterinary training practice. Assessment includes practical competence observed in the workplace and written knowledge tests. Both elements must be completed to gain the qualification.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Northumberland College Kirkley Hall Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Veterinary nurse, providing clinical care for companion animals in a veterinary practice.
  • Student veterinary nurse, working toward full RCVS registration during training.
  • Veterinary receptionist, supporting a practice with clinical knowledge behind you.
  • Animal care assistant, supporting veterinary teams in a clinical setting.

What you could study next

  • BSc (Hons) in Veterinary Nursing, a degree route for those wanting to deepen clinical knowledge and take on senior roles.
  • RCVS Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Nursing, a specialist qualification for registered nurses wanting to focus on a clinical area.
  • Practice management qualifications, useful if you move into a supervisory or business role within a veterinary practice.

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