Top Award For Trainee Veterinary Nurse
4 years ago 
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A trainee veterinary nurse from Middlesbrough has won a prestigious award in recognition of the hard work and dedication she has shown in completing the initial qualifications required to pursue her dream career.
Sarah Etherington, who works at White Cross Vets in Coulby Newham, has been named Nursing Assistant Student of the Year at Myerscough College.
The Preston based college runs Myerscough School of Veterinary Nursing, which has been one of the UK’s leading education and training providers for veterinary nurses for more than 35 years.
Sarah joined White Cross Vets, which is part of IVC Evidensia, in 2017 and in January this year she completed Myerscough College’s online Certificate for Animal Nursing Assistants course, more than six months ahead of schedule.
Commenting on Sarah’s prize, Alison Robinson, chief executive and principal at Myerscough College, said: “This is an outstanding achievement and shows great self-discipline and determination to succeed. Sarah demonstrated a high level of commitment to her coursework which was completed to a very good standard. I would like to congratulate Sarah and wish her every success in the future.”
Sarah is now preparing to embark on a registered nursing course at The College of Animal Welfare (CAW) in Leeds, which will be the final part of her training.
She said: “I’ve always been a pet lover and had a long ambition to become a registered veterinary nurse. Working at White Cross Vets for the last three years, whilst completing my training, has given me a real taste of what the role involves, as well as the huge variety of work, and it’s made me even more passionate about it. Winning this award is very special and I’m excited to move onto the next and final part of my qualification.”
Rob Reid, clinic director at White Cross Vets in Coulby Newham, said: “Sarah is very hardworking and has done extremely well to complete this course so quickly and to such a high standard. There’s no doubt she will make a fantastic registered veterinary nurse.”
It typically takes between two and four years to train to become a registered veterinary nurse and includes completing a qualification approved by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. This can be achieved via a Veterinary Nursing Diploma, an Apprenticeship, a Veterinary Nursing BSc (Hons) or FdSc degree.
Once qualified, the role is extremely varied and includes giving vaccinations, taking blood samples, monitoring anaesthetised pets, clipping nails, post-operative check-ups, triage during emergencies and helping owners manage pets’ weight and behavioural problems. There are also opportunities to train in specialist areas including anaesthesia and dentistry.
At White Cross Vets, nurses also run weight management clinics, puppy socialisation classes, organise worming, flea and tick programmes, as well as advising on general pet welfare.
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