We are seeking an enthusiastic, team‑oriented Veterinary Care Assistant to join our team at Donnington Grove on a full‑time basis.
We are a busy equine referral hospital based in Newbury, West Berkshire, and are looking to expand our team. The ideal applicant will have experience and confidence working with a range of horses, including racehorses, foals and competition horses.
How You’ll Make a Difference
As a Veterinary Care Assistant, you will support the clinical team to deliver high standards of patient and client care while helping to ensure the practice environment runs smoothly and safely.
Working under the direction of a veterinary surgeon or registered veterinary nurse, you’ll support inpatient care, assist with patient handling and restraint, help maintain clinical areas and equipment, and contribute to a positive and compassionate experience for both patients and clients.
This full‑time position involves supporting the team of veterinary surgeons in the hospital and out on the road 24/7/365, providing routine and emergency care. The role includes shift work with nights and weekends.
General Responsibilities
- Care of inpatients
- Performing clinical checks
- Wound care
- Assisting in theatre
- Admitting and discharging patients
- Helping to acquire diagnostic images both in the hospital and on the road
You Might Be a Great Fit If…
- A caring, professional approach with a genuine interest in animal welfare
- Good communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and clients
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage tasks effectively in a busy environment
- A proactive attitude to learning, with openness to feedback and development
- Experience of working with animals in either a clinical or non‑clinical setting would be advantageous
The applicant must hold a Grade 4‑9 or A*–C in 5 GCSEs, including maths, English and science, and have a UK driving licence.
Full training will be provided, aiming to study for and achieve a Level 3 Qualification in Equine Veterinary Nursing.
How We’ll Support You
- Structured development opportunities, including access to VCA development programmes and apprenticeships
- Clear career pathways with progression opportunities into Student Veterinary Nurse roles and beyond
- Supportive, collaborative teams focused on delivering high‑quality patient and client care
- A values‑led culture focused on care, community and continuous improvement
What We Offer Our Team
- 6.6 weeks’ annual leave plus your birthday off
- Increasing holiday allowance based on length of service
- Enhanced family‑friendly policies, including maternity/paternity/adoption/shared parental and surrogacy pay
- Employee wellbeing initiatives, such as the Healthcare Cash Plan and Cycle to Work scheme
- Learning and development opportunities via the IVC Evidensia Academy
- Pension scheme
- Discounted veterinary care
- Voluntary benefits, including a Green Cars salary sacrifice scheme and access to discounts/cashback with hundreds of participating retailers
Salary: £25,865.11 per annum.
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