National Occupational Standards review - your comments needed

The UK Commission for Employment and Skills (UKCES) has launched a consultation on the current and future use and development of National Occupational Standards (NOS), which cover veterinary nursing and other occupations.

NOS describe what a person needs to do, know and understand in their job to carry out their role in a consistent and competent way.

They are described by UKCES as “building blocks for UK qualifications and business improvement tools,” and are developed by groups of employers for their employees through a Sector Skills Council or Standards Setting Body.

It is a two-phase consultation, the first phase of which was aimed at Skills Sector Councils and has now closed.

The second phase is aimed at employers and UKCES would welcome responses from veterinary practices, whether or not they are veterinary nurse training practices (TPs).

The Commission has invited employers to complete a questionnaire online. For further information on the consultation and to access the survey, follow the link.

Later in the year, Lantra, the Skills Sector Council responsible for veterinary nursing, will be reviewing the VN National Occupational Standards as part of its periodic review of VN training and education.

Again, your comments would be welcomed - anyone wishing to register their interest in the review may do so by contacting Lantra Connect ([email protected] or 0845 707 8007).