The British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) is now welcoming applications from its members to join BVNA Council, with seats available for both registered veterinary nurses (RVNs) and student veterinary nurses (SVNs).

The application window is open until Friday 15th May 2026.

Becoming a BVNA Council member is a fantastic opportunity for individuals to represent and champion the veterinary nursing profession, informing its future and driving positive progress.

What does being a BVNA Council member involve?

BVNA Council is made up a strong group of committed RVNs and SVNs. They each share the common goal of speaking up to ensure that the veterinary nursing profession is recognised, understood, and listened to. Supported by a staff team, BVNA Council set the Association’s strategic direction, enabling BVNA to continue to deliver what veterinary nurses need from their representative body.

BVNA Council members serve a three-year period. The terms of office are staggered, so there will always be new members ratified onto BVNA Council every year.

The whole Council meets six times per year; twice per year at the BVNA Head Office in Harlow, once during BVNA Congress in Telford, and with the remaining meetings held online. There are three committees within BVNA Council which drive the Association’s activities – Congress and Events, Membership, and Policy. BVNA Council members will actively contribute to their respective committee between Council meetings.

Council members will also represent BVNA at veterinary events, including BVNA Congress.

Important attributes for candidates are a strong commitment to promoting BVNA values, and a willingness to devote time and effort to representing BVNA members along with the wider veterinary nursing profession.

Like the veterinary nursing profession as a whole, BVNA Council members come from a diverse range of backgrounds and career paths within the profession – from clinical practice, industry, education, research, charity and more. Recognising the positive value of diversity, BVNA welcomes applications from all sectors of the profession and of society.

Application and Selection Process

Last year, BVNA Council approved a move towards an Application and Selection Process, with the aims of promoting inclusivity, and the ability to select Council members with varying backgrounds, skills and experience, to represent a wider range of RVNs and SVNs.

The application window is open until 23.59 on Friday 15th May 2026. BVNA members can visit the membership portal here to find out how to apply.

Message from BVNA President, Sarah Holliday

“At a time when the veterinary profession as a whole is navigating both challenges but also significant opportunities, BVNA is committed to providing leadership and a clear voice for veterinary nurses. Our activities rely on having a strong Council team to guide the association, and we are delighted to invite applications from both RVN and SVN members.

“Being a BVNA Council member is an exciting opportunity to make a real impact, and ensure our profession is represented and heard at the highest levels. If you are passionate about making a difference to the future of veterinary nursing, we would love to hear from you. Join us as we continue our mission to champion the veterinary nursing profession – amongst the veterinary sector, the public, plus key industry stakeholders and policymakers.”

Those who are considering applying are welcome to contact bvna@bvna.co.uk with any questions about the application process, or the role of a BVNA Council member.