The British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) Congress is an annual three-day event dedicated to the veterinary nursing profession, taking place this year between Friday 11 – Sunday 13 October 2024 at Telford International Centre. The event boasts a CPD programme of over 120 hours of CPD, including practical and hands-on learning opportunities, plus a large exhibition to provide valuable insight into the latest industry products and services.

This year’s theme of ‘Progression’ will inspire reflections on how far the profession has come, as well as enable blue-sky conversations of where it could go in the future.

​For more information and to register, visit; http://bvna.org.uk/congress/

Brand new lecture streams for 2024

Responding to delegate and member feedback, BVNA has developed brand new streams and content for 2024, in recognition of the ever-evolving career pathways shaped by veterinary nurses. This year’s twenty lecture streams include:

NEW FOR 2024:

  • ‘In Conversation’ – debates on the most pressing current welfare and legislative issues
  • Referral nursing
  • Primary care and first opinion nursing
  • Advanced nursing for the general practitioner
  • Veterinary care assistants

PLUS:

  • Anaesthesia and analgesia – fundamentals and advanced
  • One Health
  • Emergency and critical care
  • Student
  • Clinical nutrition
  • Nursing the equine patient
  • Exotics, zoo and wildlife

…along with much more!

The packed programme also offers a range of practical workshops, product demonstrations, and interactive ‘challenging communications’ sessions led by VNFutures.

Progression

This headline stream takes place each morning – with the aims of inspiring veterinary nurses to recognise their own value, promoting longevity in the profession, and advancing commercial understanding. Delegates will be armed with the knowledge and confidence to make positive progress – whether in the context of their own careers, amongst their team, or within veterinary businesses and wider industry.

Each morning encompasses a different area of ‘Progression’:

  • Making veterinary nursing a sustainable and progressive career
  • Leadership
  • Finance and business

Keynote speaker

BVNA are delighted to announce keynote speaker, Marie Rippingale, who is perfectly placed to speak on the subject of ‘Progression’. Marie is a registered equine veterinary nurse who has tirelessly championed the potential of the equine RVN role throughout her career, and especially so in her current capacity as chair of the recently formed BEVA Equine Nurses Committee. Marie will be delivering the keynote lecture on Saturday 12th October.

An opportunity to network and socialise

BVNA Congress provides an excellent relaxed environment for learning, as well as enjoying the social aspects that the event offers. The large exhibition will provide delegates with the chance to network with exhibitors, plus meet friends and colleagues whilst enjoying a break between lectures. BVNA will be launching a brand-new Practical Zone – ‘The BVNA Veterinary Clinic’ – where delegates will have the opportunity for free-of-charge practical learning, with no booking required. The exhibition’s ‘Makers Market’ will also make a triumphant return, making the event accessible for those with small businesses and side-hustles.

The ever-popular social events include Musical Bingo, plus a ‘Blue Light Party’ – an emergency services themed gala dinner and awards ceremony. Fancy dress is optional but very much encouraged!

Message from BVNA President, Lyndsay Hughes

Lyndsay says: “BVNA are so excited to open the doors of Telford International Centre to the veterinary nursing profession once again this October.

“The scientific programme provides a great variety of lectures and workshops – one of our real strengths is that we always ensure there really is something for everyone. I’m especially looking forward to the Progression morning streams, in line with my Presidential theme this year. Make sure you also join us for the new ‘In Conversation’ debates, where you will have the opportunity to lead the discussion on what matters to you and the veterinary nursing profession.

“A regular feature of BVNA Congress is also the presentation of the BVNA bursaries and BVNA awards – this is a fantastic opportunity to put a spotlight on those individuals who have been an inspiration within the profession. Don’t miss the opportunity to nominate an individual who deserves to be recognised; we’ll be announcing the award categories and accepting nominations a little later in the year.

“Finally, BVNA Congress also provides the perfect space to unwind and catch up with colleagues and friends – whether you’re taking some down time in between lectures in the exhibition, or joining us for either of our fabulous social events. We can’t wait to see you there!”

Book your tickets today!

Don’t miss the opportunity to join the veterinary nursing event of the year – ​For more information and to register, visit; http://bvna.org.uk/congress/