Level 3 Diploma in
Veterinary Nursing

Course Details & FUNDING INFORMATION

The course runs over 2 years and a term, with students attending the training centre one day a week during term time, whilst working & receiving training support in an approved Training Practice. Students will cover the theory & practical activities required to pass the internal tests and external assessments of the course, which are progressed with set targets & deadlines. Apprenticeship funding is widely available.

We enrol two new cohorts per year - a September start and a February start. Employees nominated by the employer as potential veterinary nursing apprentices and who have the required entry qualifications are interviewed by the KSVN team. If successful they are given an enrolment appointment preceding the start to the academic year. Applications taken on a first come, first served basis.

Potential VN students are usually able to receive Government Apprenticeship funding on the Standards scheme. For small businesses this government funding is provided at 95% of the course fees, with these smaller employers paying 5% for the full qualification, the cost of which is £17,000 (full cost). Large businesses receive Apprenticeship funding as Levy Payers, through a Government digital account system.

Apprentices must be employed and work full time (part time hours are possible but this extends the student’s training period) which includes the College day each week in term time and have a minimum of 20 days paid holiday per year plus bank holidays. Apprentices must be paid at least the minimum wage, which is dependent on their age and period of time on the Apprenticeship: https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide/pay-and-conditions

Further general Apprenticeship information can be found following the link in the “Useful Contacts” section or by searching “How to become a student VN”.

Please contact us if you require any further information on Apprenticeship funding or refer to the link in Useful Contacts.

Entry Requirements

This course is only available for students in paid employment in a veterinary practice which has been approved as a recognised Training Practice in accordance with the requirements of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. (See Training Practice page)

Prospective students must also:

• Have obtained 5 GCSE’s grades A-C / 4-9 to include English Language, Maths and a Science or equivalent qualifications (Level 3 Animal Management + English & Maths GCSE C or 4-9 / Functional Skills Level 2). Original certificates will be required to confirm this, statements of results are NOT acceptable.

• Be in full time (average 35 hours per week or more) or part time (this will affect Apprenticeship completion) employment in an Approved Training Practice (TP).

• Be successful at interview with the training centre team.

• Have good access to the internet and the use of a laptop or tablet, both at home for private study and at work, for completing the E-portfolio.