CVS has launched a new career pathway for its vet nurses, with the aim of showing the opportunity for a lifelong career with the group, and where it could lead across its first opinion, referral and equine practices.

The new pathway shows the opportunity to progress through either clinical or team leadership and how nurses can move into management roles.

Behind each level in the pathway there's a curriculum of learning which starts at the  stage of being newly qualified and then moves into three clinical activity levels.

Level 3 nurses for example, would regularly undertake advanced Schedule 3 nursing procedures - such as tail amputations and mass removals, as well as diagnostics - such as MRI and ultrasound.

Beyond this, there are opportunities to become a CVS clinical or team lead, with the former leading a defined area of clinical practice and the latter responsible for line managing some of the nursing team.

In CVS multi-disciplinary hospitals and practices there will also be a new role of Nurse Manager, who will be responsible for the management of a larger team.

Tara Ryan, Chief Veterinary Nursing Officer, said: “There are so many good reasons to provide structure and clarity around nursing careers.

“The nursing career progression will enhance the role of the RVN in our practices and ensure we utilise the skills of our nurses.

"It should give more confidence to vets when delegating to nurses and it will enable nurses to do more for clients whether that be consulting or procedures.

“Most importantly it will support nurses in taking the direction in their career that they want to take.

"There are multiple different options for nurses to progress within CVS – whether it be in practice, procurement, client services or learning, education and development. It means nurses can truly have a life-long career at CVS.”

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vet nurses.