Trainee Small Animal Nurse

British Veterinary Association; Newbury; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-known veterinary practice in Newbury is looking for a Trainee Veterinary Nurse to join their team. The role includes hands-on experience with small animals and comprehensive training towards a veterinary nursing qualification. Candidates should have a passion for animal care, GCSEs in relevant subjects, and preferably some experience working with animals. The position offers a supportive team environment and various employee benefits.

Benefits

6.6 weeks annual leave

Birthday leave addition

Enhanced family-friendly policies

Cycle to work scheme

Employee wellbeing initiatives

Learning and development opportunities

Discounted staff pet care

Pension scheme

Qualifications

• Experience working with animals is ideal.
• Full UK driving licence is essential.

Responsibilities

• Provide hands-on care for small animals.
• Support veterinarians and qualified nurses.
• Participate in training to achieve veterinary nursing qualification.

Skills

Enthusiastic

Compassionate

Motivated

Passion for animal care

Education

GCSEs in Maths, English, and Science (Grade 4-9 / A-C)

Job description

Here at Donnington Grove Veterinary Group, we are looking for a dedicated and motivated individual to join the team as a Trainee Veterinary Nurse. We are a busy veterinary practice based in West Berkshire, and we are excited to expand our nursing team!

This role involves working on a rotating basis across our three branches in Newbury, Tadley, and Thatcham. You will receive comprehensive training to achieve a qualification in veterinary nursing; however, we are also keen to hear from veterinary nurses currently in training and registered with the RCVS.

You’ll be part of a passionate team of qualified registered nurses and veterinary surgeons, supporting the health and well‑being of our small animal patients. We are committed to both providing exceptional animal care and educating pet owners.

Join our fantastic team

We have a large, supportive team of 14 Vets and 30 Nurses/Nursing Assistants, as well as a fantastic reception team. Within our team, we have certificate holders in Exotics, Surgery, Ophthalmology and Radiography.

Our RCVS Tier 3 Hospital in Newbury and nearby branches in Tadley and Thatcham are equipped with excellent facilities, including digital radiography, dental radiography, ultrasound, endoscopy, and more.

More about you

This is a fantastic opportunity to train and qualify as a Registered Veterinary Nurse while working alongside our experienced team of vets and qualified nurses. You'll gain hands‑on experience caring for a wide range of small animals, learning every aspect of the nursing role in a busy, supportive practice environment.

We will provide full training and mentoring throughout your studies, to help you achieve your formal veterinary nursing qualification.

Who We’re Looking For

• Enthusiastic, compassionate, and motivated individuals
• A genuine passion for animal care and welfare
• Ideally, some experience working with animals
• GCSEs (Grade 4‑9 / A‑C) in Maths, English, and Science
• A full UK driving licence (essential)

Your Shift Pattern

This is a full‑time position, working 39 hours per week, including twilight and weekend shifts on a rota basis. You’ll work across our three branches – Newbury, Tadley, and Thatcham – gaining diverse experience and skills.

In addition to a competitive salary, you will benefit from:

• 6.6 weeks annual leave
• Additional annual leave for your birthday which will be added to your holiday allowance
• Enhanced family‑friendly policies, including maternity/ paternity/ adoption/ shared parental and surrogacy pay
• Cycle to work scheme
• Initiatives focused on employee wellbeing
• Non‑accidental injury support
• Learning and development opportunities via the IVC Evidensia Academy
• Pawsome Benefits – reward gateway giving discounts and cashback with 100's of retailers
• Pension scheme
• Discounted staff pet care