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May marks the celebration of Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month (VNAM).

Every year during May, the veterinary profession recognises VNAM, proudly led by the  since 2004.

In the association’s 60th year, the campaign continues a theme of ‘Progression’ – reflecting the progress made by the Veterinary Nursing profession in the past 60 years and sharing ambitions for where it could continue to grow in the future.

The campaign aims to champion veterinary nurses, raising awareness of their important role within animal welfare amongst the public. To maximise the spread of awareness to the public, BVNA invites every member of the veterinary profession, along with pet owners and caregivers, to support the campaign.

At Harper Adams, we have dedicated team of Registered Veterinary Nurses leading the teaching of both undergraduate and postgraduate students.

To celebrate VNAM, we aim to share the diverse backgrounds and experiences that shape our roles within the veterinary profession in a series of short staff interviews – with Clinical Educator in Veterinary Nursing, Charlie Wright, up next: 

Who are you and what role do you play at ÌìÃÀÊÓƵ?

My name is Charlie Wright BSc (Hons) RVN ABTC-ATI ABTC-CAB AFHEA and I am a Clinical Educator in Veterinary Nursing.

When did you qualify? And what training did you do to achieve your qualifications?

I was a late a bit of a latecomer to the register! I’ve been working in veterinary practice since 2010 but fully qualified as an RVN in 2020. I was working in practice whilst studying for my degree in Animal Behaviour and Welfare (Clinical). Then in 2017, I was able to begin my official training as a VN and started the Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing.

What does being a Registered Veterinary Nurse mean to you?

It is an honour to be a part of such a dedicated and compassionate profession with a shared interest of helping animals. Every day there is opportunity to make a positive impact - not only to the individual animals, but at a wider animal welfare level by creating change.

What have you done recently to progress your knowledge or career path?

I am currently studying towards my postgraduate certificate in learning and teaching, so that I can continue to deliver effective teaching to VN students. As well as my RVN requirements for continuing professional development (CPD), I also complete 30 hours a year of behaviour related CPD for my registration as a Clinical Animal Behaviourist.

What do you consider the most rewarding part of teaching the next generation of Veterinary Nurses here at ÌìÃÀÊÓƵ?

I love incorporating pet emotional health into teaching, as well as shaping the new generation of veterinary nurses to be behaviourally aware. It is also really rewarding to recognise, celebrate and encourage the diverse interests of students. No two student journeys are the same—they each come with their own experience and interests, and it is great to see these develop.

As the BVNA celebrates its 60^th year, what do you see for the future of Veterinary Nursing?

The profession is evolving and there is increasing opportunity for RVNs to specialise and work in their area of interest.

What advice would you give someone thinking about a career as a Veterinary Nurse?

Spend some time in veterinary practice first, to gain an understanding of the role. Don’t be afraid to ask questions to the veterinary team. You do not have to wholeheartedly love every single aspect of nursing, but if you enjoy science and care about animals then this is a great profession to explore.

_{To find out more about the Veterinary Nursing profession please visit  and to find out more about our Undergraduate Degrees in Veterinary Nursing, click here.}