Reflecting on the inaugural VN Educator Conference at Myerscough College

On 17 June 2025, we were delighted to hold the first-ever VN Educator Conference, hosted in partnership with the brilliant team at Myerscough College’s School of Veterinary Nursing. This inaugural event brought together educators from across the UK to explore the evolving landscape of veterinary nurse education and to share ideas, challenges, and innovations in teaching and support.

From the outset, the atmosphere was energised, welcoming, and deeply collaborative. Educators actively engaged throughout the day, asking insightful questions and offering thoughtful contributions that will help shape the future direction of VN education. The sessions prompted valuable discussions around practical training, inclusion, wellbeing, and the changing needs of learners—key areas for development raised by the VN educator community.

A highlight of the day was the keynote session delivered by Sarah Parkhouse and Jude Parry from Bottle Green Training. Their talk on supporting student individuality was both inspiring and practical, reinforcing the importance of recognising and adapting to diverse learning needs. They challenged us to reflect on how we can work in different ways for different learners, and how small changes in approach can make a big difference to student outcomes.

We were also pleased to share early wellbeing insights drawn from recent RCVS accreditation and audit activity, highlighting how education providers are supporting student wellbeing in practice, and where further focus is needed. This work aligns with the recently published Reasonable Adjustments guidance, which was covered during the event, empowering educators to effectively consider the wellbeing and support requirements for each and every one of their students.

As the day came to a close, one thing was clear: this is just the beginning. The enthusiasm, collaboration, and appetite for sharing best practice among attendees confirmed the need for a dedicated space where VN educators can come together.

As the day came to a close, one thing was clear: this is just the beginning. The enthusiasm, collaboration, and appetite for sharing best practice among attendees confirmed the need for a dedicated space where VN educators can come together.

We’re already looking ahead to the second VN Educator Conference, taking place at the new RCVS offices in London on 29 October 2025. With many of the same speakers returning – and the benefit of feedback from the Myerscough event – we’re excited to continue these conversations and deepen our collective learning.

A huge thank you to everyone who attended, participated, and helped bring this new event to life. We look forward to seeing many of you in October!