Trainee Small Animal Nurse

Donnington Grove Veterinary Group; Newbury; On-site; GBP 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A busy veterinary practice in Newbury is seeking a dedicated Trainee Veterinary Nurse. The role offers comprehensive training for achieving a veterinary nursing qualification while working across three branches. Ideal candidates will have a passion for animal care and GCSEs in relevant subjects. Competitive salary, benefits include 6.6 weeks annual leave, enhanced family-friendly policies, and learning opportunities.

Benefits

6.6 weeks annual leave

Birthday leave

Enhanced family-friendly policies

Cycle to work scheme

Employee well-being initiatives

Learning and development opportunities

Pension scheme

Discounted staff pet care

Qualifications

• Enthusiastic and compassionate individual.
• Genuine passion for animal care and welfare.
• Ideally, some experience working with animals.

Responsibilities

• Support the health and well-being of small animal patients.
• Assist in comprehensive training for veterinary nursing qualification.

Skills

Compassion

Motivation

Experience working with animals

Full UK driving licence

Education

GCSEs in Maths, English, and Science

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!

Join our fantastic 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.

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.

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)

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.

Benefits

• 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 well‑being
• 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

Up to £24,847.60 DOE