University launches plan to develop vet nurse apprenticeship
Dr Mary-Kate Burke, head of the Department of Veterinary Medicine at South East Technological University (SETU) (centre), Dr Anne Marie Butler, head of Education in Teagasc, Paul Nolan, Dawn Meats Group development manager, with two fourth-year agri-science students from SETU at the launch at the National Ploughing Championships of SETU's strategic plan for a Department of Veterinary Medicine.
Plans are underway to develop Ireland’s first Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN) apprenticeship programme.
The scheme is targeted for launch within the next three years, as part of South East Technological University’s strategic plan for its new Department of Veterinary Medicine.
The roadmap sets out the SETU’s priorities in teaching, research, programme expansion and engagement as the first students begin SETU’s new veterinary medicine programme.
Other goals include the establishment of an internationally respected centre of expertise in veterinary education and clinical practice.
As well as the publication of peer-reviewed veterinary and clinical teaching research outputs as a department.
It comes as almost 40 students commence the new Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine (MVB) programme.
Officially launched this week at the National Ploughing Championships, the plan sets out the department’s priorities for veterinary education, clinical training, research and engagement.
The priorities are underpinned by a One Health approach that recognises the connections between animal, human and environmental health.
Dr Mary-Kate Burke, head of the Department of Veterinary Medicine, said the plan will guide the department’s development as the new programme progresses.
“This strategic plan sets out our ambition to establish SETU’s Department of Veterinary Medicine as a recognised leader in veterinary education and research, while strengthening partnerships and contributing to the veterinary profession and wider region,” she said.
“At its heart is a commitment to producing work-ready graduates and advancing One Health, sustainability and animal welfare.”
The veterinary programme has been developed to prepare graduates for professional practice, with the curriculum aligned with the standards and expectations of the Veterinary Council of Ireland (VCI), the European Association of Establishments for Veterinary Education (EAEVE), and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).
