Veterinary Management Group unveils first VPAC successes of 2021
Qualification gained through distance learning at nursing school
The first two recipients of the Veterinary Management Group’s Veterinary Practice Administration Certificate (VPAC) for 2021 have been announced. They are:
- Helena Dunlavey from Mayes & Scrine Equine Vets in Horsham
- Jade Emery from Park Vets in Cardiff.
The VPAC qualification is aimed at those new to management or transferring to a role in veterinary practice from another sector and equips students with the skills and knowledge to fulfil an administrative role in practice with minimal supervision.
More than 450 students have already completed the qualification, which is delivered through distance-learning by the Lynwood School of Veterinary Nursing. Modules covered in the 12-18-month VPAC programme include:
- Finance
- Information technology
- Marketing
- HR
- Ethics and statutory requirements.
Commenting on her achievement, Helena Dunlavey said: “After working as a receptionist for about a year and a half I was interested in a career in practice management and the VPAC offered a good mix of practical and theoretical knowledge in key areas.
“It has improved my confidence in my existing skills, as well as teaching me a huge amount about other areas of practice.
“The VPAC definitely has real-life applications too as I’ve been able to take not only the knowledge I’ve gained back to practice and put into action some ideas for marketing and social media engagement that I’d designed during the units.
“I feel really encouraged to continue following my interests into practice management, and I’m hoping to enrol on the VMG Veterinary Leadership and Management Course in April.”
‘Develop skills’
Jade Emery said: “I wanted to complete the VPAC to have the chance to develop my knowledge and skills in my current role as a Practice Administrator. The VPAC has helped my confidence in my role and also my confidence to pursue further study to be able to reach my career aspirations. On completion of the VPAC, in January I began a Masters degree in Business with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David.”
VMG Certification and Training Committee Chair Matthew Horobin CVPM, added: “In an ever-changing world, we are even more in need of highly-skilled and knowledgeable administrative team members who can make a positive contribution to the day-to-day running of our practices.
“The VPAC syllabus helps to support and nurture our administrators so that they can provide a high level of support while building a fulfilling career within the veterinary industry, right up to practice management level. This is why many student nurses already study for it as part of their degree
The next cohort will begin the course on 1 April, 2021. Applications must be received by no later than 31 March. Applications to study for the VPAC and further information is available here: https://www.lsvn.co.uk/ParttimeVeterinaryPracticeAdministrationCert1504.html
