Veterinary nursing - level 3 apprenticeship framework

About the framework

This framework specifies the standards and the criteria for the delivery of level 3 apprenticeship training to achieve qualified status within the landbased and environmental sector. Successful completion of the apprenticeship will lead to the award of a level 3 qualification and recognition as a qualified Veterinary Nurse (small animal or equine)/Head Veterinary Nurse/Head Equine Veterinary Nurse within the sector.

Mandatory outcomes

Achievement of a level 3 apprenticeship in veterinary nursing will be assessed by verification through the appropriate awarding body.

You must complete the combined competence-based and knowledge-based qualification, along with the mandatory essential skills qualifications.

Mandatory essential skills

To successfully complete the apprenticeship, you must achieve the following essential skills qualifications as part of the apprenticeship or already hold a recognised equivalent:

• application of number – level 2
• communication – level 2
• information and communication technology – level 2

However, any qualifications you already have are assessed against the framework requirements and may result in an exemption from the above.

Competency and knowledge qualifications

Apprentices need to complete the combined competency-based and knowledge-based qualification from below.

Combined competence-based and knowledge-based qualification:

• VetSkill VTEC Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Companion Animal) 610/1211/7
• VetSkill VTEC Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (Equine) 610/1343/2

Eligibility and entry to the programme

You must be a new employee, or an existing employee taking on a new role to take part in the programme.

Employers may apply their own criteria at the recruitment stage.

Entry to the level 3 apprenticeship is by progression from the apprenticeshipsni level 2 framework in nursing assistant in a veterinary environment.

You may also enter the level 3 apprenticeship, subject to assessment by the training contractor and employer, if you:

• have already gained significant work experience in your occupational area, which could be considered as meeting the requirements of the level 2 nursing assistant in a veterinary environment framework and can show the capacity to achieve a level 3 standard
• have previously achieved a relevant level 2 recognised vocational qualification that is a mandatory requirement of the Level 2 apprenticeshipsni nursing assistant in a veterinary environment framework

See also the DfE operational requirements.

Duration

Apprenticeship duration can vary and will be agreed between the apprentice, training contractor and employer.

Related knowledge

For this framework, the participant is required to complete a suitable employee rights and responsibilities (ERR) workbook. Framework certification is issued on confirmation from the training contractor that the ERR has been completed.

Responsibilities

It is the responsibility of the training contractor/college to ensure that all components of this framework are delivered in accordance with apprenticeshipsni operational requirements.

The apprentice must be employed from day one.

Further information

The content of this framework (Framework No 373 Issue 6: 01/23) has been agreed by the Department for the Economy.  For further information, contact:

• Department for the Economy - Apprenticeships Delivery and Performance Branch