Supporting SVNs through OSCEs: How VetSkill and Dick White Academy prioritise wellbeing

As Student Veterinary Nurses (SVNs) approach the final stage of their training journey - the OSCE - it is completely natural for this milestone to bring a mixture of excitement, anticipation, and nerves.

Preparing students for this moment is never the responsibility of one organisation alone. It is the result of close collaboration between training providers and awarding organisations, working together to ensure every learner feels prepared, supported, and confident.

At Dick White Academy (DWA), lecturers work closely with each student throughout their training to develop not only clinical competence, but also the confidence needed to demonstrate those skills under assessment conditions. Through teaching, coaching, and individual support, DWA helps students understand what the OSCE is really designed to do: provide a structured opportunity to demonstrate the skills they have been building throughout their programme.

When students arrive at their assessment, VetSkill’s OSCE team continues that supportive approach. Assessors are selected not only for their clinical expertise, but also for their kindness, warmth, and commitment to creating a calm and professional assessment environment.

Many assessors are trained Mental Health First Aiders and are able to recognise when students may be feeling anxious or overwhelmed, offering reassurance and support where needed. During rest stations, students are also encouraged to take a moment to pause and reset before moving on to the next station.

These small touches matter. They reflect a shared understanding across the profession that assessment should be rigorous, but it should also be humane.

Ultimately, the OSCE is not about catching anyone out. It is an opportunity for SVNs to demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and professionalism they have developed through their training, supported every step of the way by both their training provider and the awarding organisation.

Discover VetSkill’s OSCE dates here, and learn more about the OSCE Star Hall of Fame.

Learn more about VetSkill’s veterinary nursing qualifications here. For further information on becoming an approved VetSkill centre, please visit: Become a Centre — VetSkill. Kiera from the VetSkill Quality Assurance Team will be in contact to arrange an initial meeting to discuss the process and provide support and guidance throughout.