FIVP is seeking views from independent veterinary practices to help inform the development of a new apprenticeship standard for veterinary nursing.
An Employer Group was set up to develop these standards and has met a number of times to discuss the veterinary nursing role. A draft standard has been produced on the knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs) employers expect from a competent veterinary nurse.
FIVP wishes to convey the views of independent practices at meetings of the Employer Group, to ensure the standard reflects their needs too.
The group was set up in response to a government initiative to ‘put employers in the driving seat of the apprenticeship programme’ – a need that was highlighted in the 2012 Richards Review, commissioned by the government.
Following this the government published ‘The Future of Apprenticeships in England’ in October 2013, which outlined four key objectives:
- Put employers in the driving seat – ensuring apprenticeships are based on standards designed by employers
- Increase the quality of apprenticeships – an apprentice will need to demonstrate their competence through rigorous and holistic assessment
- Simplify the system – the new standards should be short and easy to understand, describing the KSBs an individual needs to be competent in their occupation
- Give employers purchasing power – putting control of government funding for the external training of apprentices in the hands of employers
FIVP chairman Ian Skates has attended the meetings of the Employer Group to represent the views of independent veterinary practices.
Prior to joining FIVP, Mr Skates was responsible for managing the largest youth apprenticeship contract in England, Scotland and Wales and was also ‘responsible officer’ to OFQUAL for one of the largest vocational awarding bodies in England. He is trustee at a groundbreaking education charity specialising in innovative training for learners.
We would like to hear views from independent practices on what should be included in the standards, allowing us to champion these views at Employer Group meetings. Please share your opinions with us by emailing: enquiries@fivp.org.uk.
