The free, CPD-accredited event formed part of the Nantwich-based university centre’s commitment to developing confident, compassionate practitioners for an ever-evolving industry.

A mix of expert talks and hands-on workshops were offered, covering communication, neurodivergence in training environments, reflective practice and mental health within the profession.

Delegates also heard from Vetlife, the charity supporting veterinary teams with wellbeing and crisis services, a conversation that resonated strongly with both students and those responsible for guiding them through their clinical placements.

The day also provided rare space for Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs), clinical coaches and student vet nurses to work together in a calmer, less pressurised setting than everyday practice. Interactive activities, group tasks and shared discussions helped break down barriers and build confidence along the way. Many attendees said the relaxed format made it easier to learn, connect and reflect.

Feedback from the day was overwhelmingly positive. One attendee commented: “The group discussions and activities were engaging and fun and got me involved.” Another added: “The neurodivergence lecture was brilliant!”

An RVN shared: “I learned that I communicate best with a mixture of visual demonstration and spoken communication, which will help me support my students.”
A student veterinary nurse said: “I liked being able to get to know and speak to local RVNs.”

University Centre Reaseheath is an Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons-accredited education provider via the University of Chester and recently celebrated the graduation of its third cohort of degree-level Veterinary Nursing students. Many have already moved into roles in practice, reflecting the strength of the programme and the close working relationships Reaseheath maintains with clinics across Cheshire and the wider north west.

Steph Jackson, Course Manager for Veterinary Nursing, said: “Good communication underpins everything we do in veterinary nursing, from clinical handovers to supporting clients through difficult decisions. Days like this allow us to explore those skills in a safe, open environment and to acknowledge how individual learning needs, including neurodivergence, shape the way people thrive in practice. It’s been brilliant to see students and supervisors learning side by side.”