CANDI Celebrates 100th Veterinary Nursing Student

City and Islington College’s 100th Veterinary Nursing Student has successfully completed the apprenticeship course to become a Registered Veterinary Nurse.

City and Islington College (CANDI) is celebrating a significant milestone. The college’s 100th Veterinary Nursing Student, Corinne Smart, has completed the course and entered the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) register. 

Corinne always knew she wanted to work with animals. After completing a degree in Zoology and working as an Animal Care Assistant, she discovered the apprenticeship route. While completing her studies, Corinne chose to work in a charity veterinary hospital as she felt it provided the best learning environment where she could work as part of a large team, treat patients and aim to improve the welfare of both owned and stray animals.

We caught up with Corinne to find out more about her journey from student to Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN).

Why did you choose CANDI as your place of study? 

CANDI is the college associated with the practice I work in. It was conveniently located in North London, and this was important as I had to attend once a week for lessons during term time. The tutors were knowledgeable and helpful, and I found it useful to have that weekly learning opportunity alongside the practical aspects of the role. 

Which part of the Veterinary Nurse Apprenticeship did you enjoy the most?

I really enjoyed learning in more depth and being able to apply this knowledge to everyday situations within the practice. The role and the course are very varied and the extent of knowledge that is required is huge, but being able to practice and apply it daily really helped. 

I’m incredibly grateful for all the team’s support throughout the process. That was one aspect I really enjoyed, working more closely with a lot of the vets and RVNs in my workplace and support from my clinical supervisor, managers, animal care assistants, other students, and everyone.  

What are your plans for the future? 

Now, I’m enjoying being an RVN in the environment I love, a charity veterinary hospital. It can be intense and challenging and I feel like I’m still growing and applying new skills. The journey of an RVN is continual growth and learning and it definitely feels that way. I would love to volunteer abroad in the not too far future, there are so many organisations and charities to choose from!

What was the best thing about studying at CANDI?

For me, it was having the opportunity to gain the qualification with the support and guidance of knowledgeable tutors.  

About the Veterinary Nursing Apprenticeship

The two-year Veterinary Nursing Apprenticeship is based at the state-of-the-art Centre for Applied Sciences in Angel which comprises a bespoke animal care unit. 

Students build their practical skills by working at an RCVS Training Practice while also attending college to advance their theoretical knowledge. 

Congratulations to Corinne on completing her course and becoming a Registered Veterinary Nurse!

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