Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Views sought on new VN apprenticeship standard
ian skates
The Employer Group has met a number of times, attended by FIVP chairman Ian Skates.
FIVP asks for opinions from independent practices
 
The Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices (FIVP) is seeking views on the development of a new apprenticeship standard for veterinary nursing.

FIVP wishes to convey the views of independent veterinary practices at meetings of the Employer Group, which was set up to develop the standard, in response to a government initiative to 'put employers in the driving seat of the apprenticeship programme'.

In October 2013, the government published 'The Future of Apprenticeships in England', which had four key objectives: to put employers in the driving seat, increase the quality of apprenticeships, simplify the system and give employers purchasing power.

The Employer Group has met a number of times, attended by FIVP chairman Ian Skates, to discuss the role of the veterinary nurse and develop a draft standard on the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) employers expect from a competent veterinary nurse.

Prior to joining FIVP, Mr Skates was responsible for managing the largest youth apprenticeship contract in England, Scotland and Wales and was also 'responsible officer' to OFQUAL for one of the largest vocational awarding bodies in England. He is trustee at a groundbreaking education charity specialising in innovative training for learners.

FIVP is asking independent veterinary practices to share their views on what should be included in the standards. For more information, or to share your views, email enquiries@fivp.org.uk

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.