FdSc Veterinary Nursing Science

29/03/2015

international student course leaflet

This interactive (red text) course leaflet aims to give international students much more useful information about the FdSc Veterinary Nursing Science foundation degree than is normally available on the Sparsholt College website.

Each of the three years of the course is composed of a number of units of study. We have provided you with a slimmed-down, more immediately intelligible version of the complete unit descriptions. We hope that this will give you all the information tyou need to make a decision about studying Veterinary Nursing at the College. But please email us if you have any questions about the course, or about life and study here.

This is a live document subject to frequent updates and modifications, so please check that you have the latest published version by visiting the international pages of the College website.

What is a Foundation degree?

According to the UK National Qualifications Framework, Foundation degree “qualifications recognise the ability to increase the depth of knowledge and understanding of an area of work or study to enable the formulation of solutions and responses to complex problems and situations. Learning at this level involves the demonstration of high levels of knowledge, a high level of work expertise in job roles and competence in managing and training others. Qualifications at this level are appropriate for people working as higher grade technicians, professionals or managers.”

Although Foundation degrees were introduced in 2001, and successful completion realises 120 (EU) ECTS credits and 240 (UK) CATS credits, there may still be some uncertainty about Foundation degrees outside the European Union – for example, Norway does not recognise FdSc courses as being eligible for funding purposes.

Foundation degrees are normally two years long. This FdSc Veterinary Nursing Science course requires three years study in order to incorporate 60 weeks of work-based learning.

Course introduction

Year 1 units of studyAnimal Husbandry, Inheritance and DiseaseFunctional AnatomyPractice Organisation and ITPrinciples of Veterinary NursingProfessional Development and Learning Contract

Year 2 units of studyAnalytical TechniquesApplication of Veterinary Nursing CarePharmacologyRadiography and Diagnostic TechniquesSurgical Theatre Practice and AnaesthesiaVeterinary Nursing Practice 1

Year 3 units of studyAnimal BehaviourApplied Industrial ResearchRecent Advances in Animal HealthVeterinary Nursing Practice 2

Glossary of termsGeneral information

Contents

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blue poison dart frog (Dentrobates tinctorius “azureus”) - photo by Chris Mitchell

FdSc Veterinary Nursing Science

cover image: female mini lop rabbit, based in the Animal Management Centre

The FdSc Veterinary Nursing Science course is based on a firm science foundation. Specialist veterinary nursing studies and a wide range of related study units will develop the necessary skills of the profession. This will allow you to progress into the world of work in the field of veterinary nursing or to further studies in the final year of an appropriate BSc(Hons) degree.

The course incorporates a combination of lectures, laboratory practicals, study visits, guest speakers, guided and independent work, and extensive work experience. You will be assessed through coursework, including laboratory investigations, assignments and presentations. All elements of the RCVS Professional Syllabus will be assessed through closed book examinations.

The course requires a miniumum of 60 weeks of work experience within veterinary practices. Work placements can only be undertaken at College-approved practices within the UK, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man.

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blue poison dart frog (Dentrobates tinctorius “azureus”) - photo by Chris Mitchell

FdSc Veterinary Nursing ScienceYou will have the opportunity (subject to demand) to participate in animal training and behaviour, large animal handling, and dangerous wild animal handling certificated courses.

A very high number of graduates gain employment with Qualified Veterinary Nurse status and the College’s excellent links with the industry.

Many graduates are employed in small animal practice, equine practice and referral hospitals.

In addition to work in a clinical veterinary practice, our FdSc Veterinary Nursing Science can lead to career opportunities in research, the pharmaceutical industry, laboratories, zoological/wildlife parks and in education. Successful students will be able to return to the College to top up your studies in BSc(Hons) Animal Management or BSc(Hons) Applied Animal Behaviour.

FdSc Veterinary Nursing Sciencethe overall aims of the course:- to provide a systematic, coherent and balanced education to first degree level through study within the discipline of Veterinary Nursing.

- to create an environment within which each student may fully realise their academic potential and within which the student’s achievements are recognised.

- to develop and test each student’s intellectual abilities and critical faculties so that s/he can define, investigate and analyse problems, form judgements and make and implement decisions.

- to equip each student with transferable skills and knowledge such that with appropriate experience and further study s/he will be competent to practise in the scientific support and development of equine and related businesses.

rationale and structure of the course:The course has been based on a wide range of sources, including the UK Quality Code for Higher Education, and industry and student representatives.

Years 1 and 2 of your course each consist of 90 credits; Year 3 consists of 60 credits. To achieve an FdSc Foundation degree you must successfully earn 240 credits.

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staff introduction:As staff, our aim is to provide the relevant training and personal development necessary for you to become a professional in Veterinary Nursing and, above all, someone who is employable, competent and useful. We will certainly do our utmost to ensure that this is the case. We are not going to teach you everything there is to know about Veterinary Nursing - that would take longer than a lifetime – but, we will endeavour to develop in you the skills and knowledge required to be effective in this area of work and, in particular, an enquiring mind to ask the right questions and, hopefully, be able to answer them.

Our input is only a part of the equation. Whilst we hope that everyone will be successful and proudly walk away with a degree on Presentation Day, the course and Sparsholt generally offers much more than the degree alone. What you take from the course, in terms of experience, contacts, acquired skills and confidence is very much in your hands and hence you form an essential part of the equation. Make the most of your time at Sparsholt and you will be rewarded.

We expect you to live up to the reputation that we and previous students have developed and earned, not just within the College, but with the extensive and varied range of contacts throughout our industry in the UK and further afield. You must remember that wherever you go and whatever you do, you are an ambassador for this course, the College and the industry generally.

academic facilities:All teaching spaces have good IT facilities with wireless connection available for laptop use within lectures. There are designated teaching spaces to facilitate the delivery of lectures, workshops, seminars, presentations or discussion-led group work.

the Veterinary Nursing Centre, and the Animal Management Centre (AMC):The Veterinary Nursing Centre was officially opened in 2004 and was constructed to provide a practical facility for veterinary nursing, based on industry best practice, complete with a fully equipped surgery and reception area.

Students are involved in practical sessions at the Animal Management Centre. With access to more than one hundred different species of animal, including an extensive collection of exotics and reptiles, students are able to experience elements of animal care they may not encounter in the course of daily practice.

the Faculty of Equine and Applied Animal Science:Your course is run by members of the Faculty of Equine and Applied Animal Science. The Faculty has run related courses since 2003. There are currently four academic and two support staff responsible for the FdSc Veterinary Nursing curriculum. The lecturers are all experienced in the industry, and are current in veterinary nursing or their subject specialisms. The course team has strong links with an extensive network of veterinary professionals working in the local area and students on this course benefit significantly from these contacts from the perspective of site visits, work placements and guest speakers.

Sparsholt College benefits from a high profile locally, regionally and nationally in the land based industries. It has been recognised as a provider of high quality vocational education and training through the Centre of Vocational Excellence (CoVEs) awarded.

Specialist units will make use of realistic simulations associated with the real-work environments provided by the Veterinary Nursing and Animal management Centres.

female green tree python (Morelia viridis), based in the Animal Management Centre

FdSc Veterinary Nursing Science: Year 1 units of study

learning outcomes:1. Define and apply safe working practices with animals.2. Describe how different behavioural traits affects the choice of handling and restraint techniques.3. Evaluate the effectiveness of housing, breeding and management systems.4. Describe nutritional requirements and feeding systems.5. Describe the principles of genetics and inheritance and discuss the welfare implications of selective breeding programmes.6. Discuss the role of the British Veterinary Association/Kennel Club Schemes

TThis unit provides opportunities for participants to gain and develop skills and knowledge in handling a range of animals and gain knowledge of the theoretical understanding of animal husbandry, breeding, genetics and inheritance. This unit provides opportunities for participants to gain knowledge and theoretical understanding of scientific terminology. Appropriate personal protective equipment is essential to carry out all handling and husbandry in the Animal Management Centre.

Animal Husbandry, Inheritance and Disease

learning outcomes:1. Define and apply anatomical terms and definitions in anatomy, physiology and histology.2. Differentiate between the anatomical differences in mammals, birds reptiles, amphibian and fish and the systems involved.3. Identify organs and tissues at cellular level.4. Locate the component body systems, organs and tissues at gross level.5. Understand homeostatic control and physiology of the body in relation to health and disease.6. Describe breeding cycles and parturition of animals commonly seen in practice.

This unit provides opportunities for participants to develop skills in scientific practical skills and terminology. In order to meet health and safety requirements of this unit students will not be able to participate in the laboratory dissection and histology without appropriate personal protective equipment e.g. laboratory coat, gloves and goggles where necessary. Good laboratory practice must be adhered.

Functional Anatomy

learning outcomes:1. Work effectively and safely within a veterinary practice and be able to demonstrate a competence in human first aid.2. Identify the professional regulatory frameworks and legislation relating to health and safety, animal welfare, the provisions of the Data Protection Act and describe their implications for veterinary practice3. Describe the factors to be assessed by the nurse when admitting and discharging an animal for veterinary procedures4. Explain the duties of a receptionist demonstrating a competence of record keeping and organisation of nurse clinics.5. Utilise information technology in the production of professional presentation material.6. Effectively communicate information in a variety of forms.

This unit provides opportunities for participants to gain and develop skills and knowledge in health and safety and human first aid, to develop communication and organisation skills, and to develop a theoretical knowledge of legislation within a veterinary practice.

Practice Organisation and IT

learning and teaching strategy:Formal lectures and seminars will provide the conceptual basis for underpinning Learning Outcomes 1-6. Fully guided practical animal handling, restraint and health check sessions in the Veterinary Nursing Centre in the Animal Management Centre will underpin learning outcomes 1 and 2. The VLE will be used to support all sessions. Students spend 60 weeks in veterinary practice during their course where they have ample opportunities to develop and reinforce the Learning Outcomes of this unit.

20 credits (10 ECTS credits)70 scheduled hours; 200 notional hourslectures and discussions: 45 hoursanimal handling, restraint, and health check sessions: 15 hoursassignment support: 10 hours

assessment:coursework - 1500 word report: 50%1 hour examination: 50%

learning and teaching strategy:Formal lectures and seminars will provide the conceptual basis for underpinning Learning Outcomes 1-6. Fully guided practical sessions carried out in the laboratory to underpin learning outcomes 1, 2, 3 and 4. The VLE will be used to support all sessions. Students spend 60 weeks in veterinary practice during their course where they have ample opportunities to develop and reinforce the Learning Outcomes of this unit.

20 credits (10 ECTS credits)70 scheduled hours; 200 notional hourslectures and discussions: 45 hoursdissections and histology: 15 hoursassignment support: 10 hours

assessment:coursework -1500 word report: 50%1 hour examination: 50%

learning and teaching strategy:Formal lectures will provide the conceptual basis for underpinning learning outcomes 1-6. Fully guided human first aid practical sessions will underpin Learning Outcome 1. The VLE will be used to support all sessions. Students spend 60 weeks in veterinary practice during their course where they have ample opportunities to develop and reinforce the Learning Outcomes of this unit.

20 credits (10 ECTS credits)50 scheduled hours; 200 notional hourslectures and discussions: 36 hourshuman first aid: 4 hoursassignment support: 10 hours

assessment:coursework - report: 30%practical (human first aid): 20%1 hour examination: 50%

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FdSc Veterinary Nursing Science: Year 1 units of study

learning outcomes:1. Outline the provisions of the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 for the practice of veterinary nursing, including RCVS and concepts of ethics in veterinary practice.2. Describe the maintenance of specific areas and equipment of veterinary practice and the safe storage of veterinary materials and medicines.3. Describe the principles and process of sterilisation and disinfection in veterinary practice.4. Explain the process of wound healing and demonstrate a competence in different types of dressing and bandage techniques.5. Demonstrate how to nurse a patient with specific nursing requirements, including explanation of systemic patient factors and explain how to support the veterinary surgeon in common clinical procedures.6. Outline the provisions of legislation relating to medicines and therapeutic agents and differentiate between the routes by which medicines can be administered.7. Describe situations requiring first aid treatment.

This unit provides opportunities for participants to gain theoretical knowledge and practical competences in essential veterinary nursing. Appropriate personal protective equipment is essential to carry out all handling and husbandry in the Animal Management Centre.

Principles of Veterinary Nursinglearning and teaching strategy:Formal lectures and seminars will provide theoretical underpinning knowledge for all Learning Outcomes. Fully guided practical sessions will allow the development of veterinary nursing skills. Individual and group tutorial work will support and monitor student progress. The VLE will be utilised to support all sessions. Students spend 60 weeks in veterinary practice during their course where they have ample opportunities to develop and reinforce the Learning Outcomes of this unit.

20 credits (10 ECTS credits)75 scheduled hours; 200 notional hourslectures and discussions: 50 hoursveterinary nursing skills sessions: 20 hoursassignment support: 5 hours

assessment:coursework - 1500 word essay: 50%1 hour examination: 50%

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learning outcomes:1. Describe their role within their work environment and, with guidance evaluate their own subject knowledge and practice related competences and draft a Learning Contract that can be used to manage their work- based learning.2. Work Online, both collecting information and using the medium to work within the group.3. Communicate in writing using media and terminology that is appropriate to their area of work.4. Use and demonstrate essential supporting skills to interpret and present information in a range of forms.

This unit provides learning activities that afford students opportunities to reflect and audit their skill, knowledge and practice against the professional standards for their practice, and to plan their orientation to study, work-based learning and future professional development and learning contract.

Professional Development and Learning Contractlearning and teaching strategy:An introductory workshop provides the initial introduction to online working and Learning Contracts. Subsequent learning will be facilitated by students active participation in online exercises and asynchronous discussion groups where students work individually and in groups. Exercises are designed to ensure blended learning loops whereby students are required to use their developing learning skills in subject specific scenarios derived or taught in core units of study including their work based learning. This strategy involves students being active in gathering information, sharing research and reflecting on the connectedness of their whole learning experience on the foundation degree. The VLE will be used to support sessions. Students spend 60 weeks in veterinary practice during their course where they have ample opportunities to develop and reinforce the Learning Outcomes of this unit.

10 credits (5 ECTS credits)4 scheduled hours; 100 notional hoursintroductory workshop: 2 hoursin-class discussion groups: 2 hoursguided online learning: 16 hours

assessment:coursework - 2000 word report: 100%

FdSc Veterinary Nursing Science: Year 2 units of study

learning outcomes:1. Show competence in microscopy and demonstrate the techniques used for cell and tissue preparation.2. Demonstrate appropriate techniques for a variety of scientific procedures. Explain what is happening during the procedures.3. Describe the techniques and equipment used for environmental monitoring. Interpret results of the experimental data.4. Undertake practical investigations, which illustrate the principles of experimental design, and scientific investigation.5. Apply analytical procedures to obtain reliable and interpretable results.6. Record and interpret a range of data.

The aim of the unit is to equip students with the skills and experience required to work safely and effectively in the laboratory as well as equipping them with the knowledge of basic laboratory techniques. Proficiency in these techniques will be tested in practical assessments whilst coursework will help outline the students understanding of results demonstrated in the laboratory sessions

Analytical Techniques

learning outcomes:1. Analyse the problems linked with infectious and medical diseases in the animal and discuss of the different types of diagnostics and treatment available.2. Describe the use and principles of nursing care plans in patients with a range of conditions, explaining the significance that abnormal results have on nursing care plans.3. Outline the requirements for good quality homecare and describe methods of supporting clients caring for animals at home.4. Describe the pathological states and common pathologies on the animal body.5. Evaluate the effectiveness of different feeding systems and nutritional requirements in medical nursing, to include enternal nutritional support.6. Outline the clinical signs displayed by a poisoned animal and describe the specific methods of treatment.

The unit aims to support students working in veterinary practice. The unit provides opportunities for participants to gain theoretical knowledge and practical competences required to evaluate the essential veterinary care required for patients. This allows the development of a holistic approach to patient care. Appropriate personal protective equipment is essential to carry out all practical sessions in the Animal Management Centre.

Application of Veterinary Nursing Care

learning outcomes:1. Analyse categories of disease and discuss the principles of drug action.2. Review the range available and the limitations of drugs used for disease treatment.3. Appraise the legislation relating to the safe use of drugs and medicines.4. Explain the principles relating to prescribing and dispensing veterinary medicine.

This unit aims to support students working in veterinary practice. The unit will provide opportunities for participants to gain theoretical knowledge and practical competences in pharmacology and the supply of medicines within the veterinary practice.

Pharmacology

learning and teaching strategy:Laboratory sessions supplemented with lectures will cover Learning Outcomes 1-6. Students will be building a range of analytical and practical skills that will be relied on in more advanced units.

20 credits (10 ECTS credits)60 scheduled hours; 200 notional hourslectures and discussions: 45 hoursveterinary nursing skills sessions: 10 hoursassignment support: 5 hours

assessment:coursework - 2000 word report: 50%1.5 hour examination: 50%

learning and teaching strategy:Formal lectures will provide theoretical underpinning knowledge for all learning outcomes. Practical sessions will allow the development of veterinary nursing skills. Seminars will allow for discussion and development of the students’ knowledge base. Individual and group tutorial work will support and monitor students’ progress. Students spend 60 weeks in veterinary practice during their course where they have ample opportunities to develop and reinforce the Learning Outcomes of this unit.

10 credits (5 ECTS credits)90 scheduled hours; 100 notional hourslectures and discussions: 15 hourspractical sessions: 75 hours

assessment:coursework - 1000 word report: 50%1 hour examination: 50%

learning and teaching strategy:Formal lectures will provide theoretical underpinning for learning outcomes. Seminars will involve discussion and case study presentation. Role play will allow students to practice SQP tasks and simulate various practical aspects of pharmacology. Individual and group tutorial work will support and monitor students progress. The VLE will be utilised to support all sessions. Students spend 60 weeks in veterinary practive during the course where they have ample opportunities to develop and reinforce the Learning Outcomes of this unit.

10 credits (5 ECTS credits)60 scheduled hours; 100 notional hourslectures and discussions: 45 hoursveterinary nursing skills sessions: 10 hoursassignment support: 5 hours

assessment:coursework - 1000 word essay 50%1.5 hour examination: 50%

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FdSc Veterinary Nursing Science: Year 2 units of study

learning outcomes:1. Describe and demonstrate competence and safe working practice in laboratory sample collection, handling, storage and shipment.2. Evaluate and demonstrate the correct methods for testing a range of laboratory samples.3. Analyse and discuss the significance of laboratory results and compare with standards.4. Explain the theories and importance of health and safety which form the basis of radiological examination including an evaluation of diagnostic imaging.5. Describe the formation of the radiographic image and evaluate emerging technologies in diagnostic imaging.

This unit aims to support students working in veterinary practice. This unit will provide opportunities for participants to gain theoretical knowledge and practical competences in a range of diagnostic imaging and essential laboratory techniques within the veterinary practice.

Radiography and Diagnostic Techniques

learning outcomes:1. Describe and discuss the medical and surgical procedures used in veterinary medicine.2. Identify fractures and dislocations and discuss the principles of fixation.3. Outline the correct procedures needed to maintain an aseptic theatre and maintain asepsis during surgical procedures.4. Review the individual care of a patient, prior to, intra and post operatively, including wound management.5. Discuss the concepts and techniques involved in anaesthesia and analgesia.6. Discuss the stages of the anaesthetic process, including the animal physiology, from the preoperative period through to recovery of the animal.7. Discuss the concepts of anaesthetic monitoring and describe and demonstrate the use of various techniques and equipment.

This unit aims to support students working in veterinary practice. The unit will provide opportunities for participants to gain theoretical knowledge and practical competences in the surgical environment. The unit will enable students to prepare the surgical theatre and the patient for surgical procedures, and to work effectively in the operating theatre. Students will develop knowledge and practical skills required to prepare and maintain anaesthetic equipment, and to assist in the patients’ anaesthesia protocol.

Surgical Theatre Practice and Anaesthesia

learning outcomes:1. Demonstrate competency in a range of technical skills relevant to the industry.2. Review the development of their own technical skills.3. Demonstrate effective interpersonal communication skills in a variety of work activities.4. Outline and describe statutory (eg health and safety) regulations.5. Produce a personal development plan for future development of technical skills, attributes and key skills relevant to the industry.

The student is expected to learn and apply a range of veterinary industry specific skills while undertaking the workplace tasks allocated. Each student, in discussions with their personal tutor, will develop this series of acquired skills as part of their Personal Development Plan. The indicative content will depend on the type and scope of each placement and so will vary from placement to placement and with the timing of each placement. All students will be required to demonstrate competency in the LANTRA National Occupational Standards 2010. Through reflective process, this unit will enable the student to learn from their experiences within veterinary practice and will facilitate the student’s professional and personal development.

Veterinary Nursing Work Practice 1

learning and teaching strategy:The programme will consist of formal lectures and practical sessions in the veterinary centre to support all the learning outcomes. Student led seminars will re-enforce learning as formative assessment. Individual and group tutorial work will support and monitor students’ progress. The VLE will be utilised to support all sessions. Students spend 60 weeks in veterinary practice during their course where they have ample opportunities to develop and reinforce the Learning Ooutcomes of this unit.

20 credits (10 ECTS credits)60 scheduled hours; 200 notional hourslectures and discussions 35 hoursveterinary nursing skills sessions: 20 hoursassignment support: 5 hours

assessment:coursework - 1000 word essay: 50%coursework - 20 minute timed assignment: pass/fail1.5 hour examination: 50%

learning and teaching strategy:Formal lectures and seminars will provide the conceptual basis for underpinning Learning Outcomes 1-7. Fully guided practical sessions carried out in the veterinary nursing centre to underpin Learning Outcomes 3, 5 and 7. Individual and group tutorial work will support and monitor students’ progress. The VLE will be used to support all sessions. Students spend 60 weeks in veterinary practice during their course where they have ample opportunities to develop and reinforce the Learning Outcomes of this unit.

10 credits (5 ECTS credits)45 scheduled hours; 100 notional hourslectures and discussions: 20 hoursveterinary nursing skills sessions: 20 hoursassignment support: 5 hours

assessment:coursework - 1000 word report: 50%1 hour examination: 50%

learning and teaching strategy:Work Practice 1 is delivered through experiential learning in the workplace, in collaboration with the staff of the establishment in which it occurs. Each student has a named workplace mentor. All work placement is vetted through established College practices as to its suitability, the quality of the experiential learning provided, and health and safety issues. Learners and workplace providers are initially supported through a briefing programme and College guidelines including comprehensive coverage of health and safety issues. Support for students and the veterinary practice from College tutors while on work experience is provided by mail, email, telephone and visits as appropriate, in addition to tutorial support via the VLE.

20 credits (10 ECTS credits)15 scheduled hours; 200 notional hoursfull time practical training in an approved training practice for 30 weeks, equivalent to 1,050 hours, excluding annual leave and absence; or part-time practical training, or combined periods of full-time and part-time training in total to 1,050 hours.work placement support: 15 hours

assessment:coursework - Nursing Progress Log Competancy Skills: pass/failcoursework - reflective account: 100%

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FdSc Veterinary Nursing Science: Year 3 units of study

learning outcomes:1. Review techniques associated with conducting and analysing behavioural observations.2. Explain how the underlying principles behaviours behind a range of behaviours can be recognised and interpreted.3. Investigate the role socialisation and its importance in the behaviour of domesticated species.4. Discuss relative merits of various training methods and their effect on animal behaviour.5. Explain the underlying principles of dog and cat behaviour problems.

This unit provides the opportunity to develop practical skills in recording and analysing behaviour. Participants explore underlying principles of behaviour and apply knowledge to training and management of domestic animals.

Animal Behaviour

learning outcomes:1. Choose and develop methods of data collection.2. Undertake a literature review for a specific research project and evaluate the information underlying units of knowledge.3. Produce a written report and presentation demonstrating an ability to undertake, analyse and interpret the results of a project using original data.

This unit is designed to develop students’ understanding of investigative and data analysis. Using a variety of sources of technical knowledge and data the student will be grounded in the principles of applied research. Students will be encouraged to work both independently and in a group for data collection and project management with minimal supervision. Work will be presented as a written project report but also displayed as an academic poster to disseminate knowledge. Students should finish this unit with the ability to conduct applied research to Foundation degree level. It will also prepare learners choosing to go on to a full undergraduate degree a sound introduction to investigative research.

Applied Industrial Research

learning outcomes:1. Evaluate related technical information and review current literature.2. Demonstrate individual research skills.3. Analyse the role of veterinary nursing theory.4. Critically discuss quality research literature.

The unit will provide opportunities for students to gain current theoretical knowledge in a range of animal health issues and advances within the veterinary professional field. The unit encourages the student to keep up-to-date regarding current developments within veterinary practice, animal health and public health. The coursework will enable the student to investigate and understand advances in the veterinary profession. This unit will also encourage independent research skills and application of knowledge. This unit aims to support students working in veterinary practice. The unit provides opportunities for participants to gain theoretical knowledge and practical competences in current veterinary nursing topics. This allows the development of a critical approach to recent developments within the industry.

Recent Advances in Animal Health

learning and teaching strategy:Formal lectures will provide theoretical underpinning knowledge for learning outcomes. This will include the use of selected visiting speakers who are respected authorities in their own field. The VLE will be utilised to support all sessions.

20 credits (10 ECTS credits)56 scheduled hours; 200 notional hourscomputer sessions with statistics and data: 15 hourstutorials: 16 hourslectures: 5 hours

assessment:coursework - 500 word poster: 30%coursework - 2500 word report: 70%

learning and teaching strategy:The programme will consist of formal lectures and a series of computer-based and workshop sessions to provide the theoretical underpinning for Learning Outcomes 1, 2 and 3. These will be supplemented by both individual and group tutorial support with the project supervisor and other tutors. Learning outcomes will be supported by cross reference to other Units and through ongoing progress reporting. Projects carried out in accordance with local and national organisations, for example, Hampshire Wildlife Trust, EMU, Southern Sea Fisheries Committee and the Environment Agency, will fulfil part of the work-based learning criteria.

10 credits (5 ECTS credits)30 scheduled hours; 100 notional hourslectures: 20 hourspractical sessions: 10 hours

assessment:coursework - 1500 word report: 50%coursework - 1500 word report: 50%

learning and teaching strategy:Formal lectures will provide theoretical underpinning knowledge for all learning outcomes. Seminars will allow for discussion and development of the students’ knowledge base. Individual and group tutorial work will support and monitor students’ progress. The VLE will be utilised to support all sessions. Students spend 60 weeks in veterinary practice during their course where they have ample opportunities to develop and reinforce the Learning Outcomes of this unit.

10 credits (5 ECTS credits)30 scheduled hours; 100 notional hourslectures and discussions: 25 hoursassignment support: 5 hours

assessment:coursework - 1500 words: 50%coursework - 15 minute presentation: 50%

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FdSc Veterinary Nursing Science: Year 3 units of study

learning outcomes:1. Demonstrate competency in a range of technical skills relevant to the industry.2. Review and critique the development of own technical skills relevant to the industry.3. Reflect on development of own employability skills.4. Prepare for professional registration.

The student is expected to learn and apply a range of veterinary industry-specific skills while undertaking work placement. The indicative content will depend on the type and scope of each placement. The student is expected to critically appraise their industrial environment as part of this unit. All students will be required to demonstrate competency in the LANTRA National Occupational Standards 2010.

Veterinary Nursing Work Practice 2learning and teaching strategy:Work Practice 2 is delivered through experiential learning in the workplace, in collaboration with the staff of the establishment in which it occurs. Each student has a named workplace mentor. All work placement is vetted through established College practices as to its suitability, the quality of the experiential learning provided, and health and safety issues. Learners and workplace providers are initially supported through a briefing programme and College guidelines including comprehensive coverage of health and safety issues. Support for students and the veterinary practice from College tutors while on work experience is provided by mail, email, telephone and visits as appropriate, in addition to tutorial support via the VLE.

20 credits (10 ECTS credits)15 scheduled hours; 200 notional hoursFull-time practical training in an approved training practice for 30 weeks, equivalent to 1050 hours, excluding annual leave and absence; or part-time practical training, or combined periods of full-time and part-time training, equivalent in total to 1050 hours.work placement support: 15 hours

assessment:coursework - Nursing Progress Log Competancy Skills: pass/failcoursework - assessment of essential clinical skills: pass/failcoursework - 1500 word reflective account: 100%

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General informationSparsholt CollegeSparsholt College is one of the leading providers of university level courses for the land and environment in the UK, with a history spanning more than 100 years, offering undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications.

Our learning, teaching and assessment strategy places the student at the centre of the entire journey from independent advice and guidance to progression to employment or postgraduate study, and providing support to extend equality of opportunity to all. Our inclusive pedagogic strategy empowers, stretches and challenges every individual appropriately so they achieve their personal best, and meet curriculum requirements.

Our degree courses are validated by the University of Portsmouth ranked in the top 2% of world universities. The College has achieved high ratings from the government (QAA and Ofsted) for the quality of its Higher Education courses and has an excellent reputation with employers and industry bodies. Our staff are experts in their chosen field with published research and high media profiles.

The campus is set in 250 hectares of rolling parkland, just 8km from the historic town of Winchester, just one hour from central London and Heathrow Airport.

Sparsholt has enviable facilities with its own fully functioning commercial farm and a nationally renowned Animal Management Centre, National Aquatics Training Centre, Equine Centre and diverse natural habitats for research and scientific observation work. We are also developing a range of sustainable technologies to enhance students’ understanding of conservation and ecology in a technological context.

facts and figures for 2015 enrolmentsFdSc Foundation degrees:

Veterinary Nursing Science

BSc(Hons) degree courses:

Animal ManagementAquaculture and Fishery MaagementEcology and Conservation ManagementEquine ScienceEquine Studies

MSc postgraduate courses:

Applied Aquaculture and Sports FisheriesApplied Zoo Biology (2016)Equine Behaviour, Performance, and Training

international tuition fees:

FdSc Veterinary Nursing Science: £7500BSc(Hons) undergraduate courses: £9800MSc postgraduate courses: £10,400

accommodation:

normally, £5065 for a 42 week contract, for a single occupancy room, with a shared kitchen; your accommodation is based in the University of Winchester; but different arrangements will be made to facilitate long periods of work placement

contacts and web links:

email Sparsholt International OfficeSparsholt College international webpagesstudent stories (case studies)

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Glossary of termscredit: a credit is an internationally recognised quantum of learning - in England you will need to accumulate 360 credits for a BSc(Hons) degree. Two UK credits are equal to one ECTS credit.Data Protection Act: The Data Protection Act 1998 is an Act of Parliament of the Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland which defines UK law on the processing of data on identifiable living people. It is the main piece of legislation that governs the protection of personal data in the UKeILP: electronic Individual Learning Plan - an online system for managing learningECTS: the European Credit Transfer Scheme - providing credit equivalence across the European Union. One ECTS credit equals 2 UK credits.ethology: ethology is the scientific study of animals under natural conditionsfitness to practise: the RCVS has a series of criteria that determine fitness to practise; certain criminal convictions, and certain physical disabilities would prejudice a student’s fitness to practisehistology: the microscopic anatomy of cells and tissues of animalshusbandry: husbandry is the breeding, care, and management of animalsLANTRA: is is the Sector Skills Council supporting skills, training and workforce development for businesses in the environmental and kand-based sectors.LANTRA National Occupational Standards (NOS): full details of the relevant National Occupational Standards can be found here.learning outcome: a learning outcome is an intended result of undertaking a unit of study - this could be an experience, knowledge, a skill, etc.Moodle: Moodle is a virtual learning environment (VLE) - the College’s online learning and teaching resourcenotional hours: notional hours is an estimate of the average amount of time required to complete the unit of studyRCVS: the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons - the organisation that oversees veterinary science and veterinary nursing science qualifications in the UK.scheduled hours: scheduled hours is the total time of demonstrations, discussions, laboratory sessions, lectures, practicals, seminars, and tutorials that comprise the unit of studyvirtual learning environment (VLE): an online learning and teaching resource such as Moodle

Work experiencePrior to joining the course: It is an important entry requirement for the FdSc Veterinary Nursing Science course that you should have two weeks of actual work experience of veterinary practice work prior to joining the course. This is simply to demonstrate that you understand some of the realities of veterinary nursing.

During the course: It is a requirement of the RCVS qualification that each student undertakes 60 weeks of actual work experience in a UK/Islands* veterinary practice during the FdSc Veterinary Nursing Science course. This will focus on working with small animals.

Work experience takes place over the three years of the course, and during the summer vacation. The second year unit Work Placement 1 actually starts in the first year, but reports back in the second year. Likewise, the third year unit Work Placement 2 commences in the second year and reports back in the final year. This may appear a little confusing, but it will all be clarified when you get your timetables.

Tier 4 (General) student visa: Work experience undertaken as part of the FdSc Veterinary Nursing Science course is viewed as work-based learning by the UKVI, and thus does not itself proscribe a Tier 4 (General) student visa.

*UK/Islands: England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Isle of Man, and the Channel Islands.

This course leafletThis interactive course leaflet is a live document subject to frequent updates, modifications, and enhancements. It is designed to be downloaded and viewed full-screen only in Adobe Reader; it does not work well viewed directly in a browser. It is not really designed to be printed as we want it to be a live document; it also has full-bleed images and fills, but it is produced at a very printable 300dpi.

Each leaflet’s publication date is located on the front cover, so please compare this with the latest published version on the international pages of the College website to ensure that you have the latest version.

Each leaflet is based on the relevant Course Handbook issued to Sparsholt College students at the beginning of the year; the detailed course units of study published in the public domain by the University of Portsmouth register website; and a continually developing portfolio of course-related images.

The University of PortsmouthThe University of Portsmouth validates the FdSc foundation degree, BSc(Hons) undergraduate degree, and MSc postgraduate degree courses offered by Sparsholt College. The complete unit descriptors for the Sparsholt courses, and all the courses offered by the University can be found in the register section of the University website.

CaveatThe information contained in this leaflet is correct as far as can be ascertained at the time of publication. The publication date of each leaflet can be found on the front cover. Please check for latest versions on the international pages of the College website.

Photographic creditsPhotographs owned and copyrighted by Sparsholt College staff and other contributors are credited:

Chris Mitchell, Manager of the Animal Management Centre

Emma Skirrow, Lecturer in Animal Management and Veterinary Nursing Science

ColophonThis course leaflet is set in Adobe Garamond Pro and Helvetica Neue.

What we now know as the Garamond typeface first appeared in a book published by Claude Garamont in France in 1530. It is often considered to be one of the most legible serif typefaces when printed on paper. The (digitised) Adobe Garamond Pro was released in 2000, and is slightly heavier than the original Garamond. This Garamond brings nearly 500 years of scholarly tradition to the leaflets

Helvetica Neue was developed in 1983, and based on the original Helvetica typeface designed in Switzerland in 1957 by Max Miedinger. Helvetica was at the heart of many Euopean typographic developments in the C20th. A version of Helvetica Neue is now the Apple system font for both iOS and OS X, and is thus one of the most visible typefaces in the world today. Helvetica Neue brings clarity to the dense screen text found in the unit descriptions.

This leaflet has been authored in Adobe InDesign CC. It is published online by the Sparsholt College International Office.

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Contact informationInternational OfficeSparsholt CollegeWestley LaneWinchester SO21 2NFEngland

international@sparsholt.ac.ukwww.sparsholt.ac.uk/international+44 (0) 1962 776441

while trekking in Mongolia, summer 2014

please email us if you want any more information about life and study at Sparsholt College,better still, why don’t you visit us, we will be delighted to show you around!