I had wanted to work in the veterinary industry for as long as I could remember. After moving to Northumberland and joining Robson & Prescott in January 1998 as a Student Veterinary Nurse (SVN), I completed my qualification in 2001 and became a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN).
During my time with Robson & Prescott, I have had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of species and across many different areas of the practice.

I have progressed through a range of roles, including SVN, RVN, Senior Veterinary Nurse, Head Nurse, and, in Summer 2025, Practice Manager. Alongside this role, I continue to maintain a clinical position within the exotics team. This provides the perfect balance between helping to manage the practice, supporting our team, and pursuing my passion for exotic species.

That really shows how much progression a nursing career can offer. Tell us more about your interest in exotic species—something Robson & Prescott is well known for.

Exotic species have been a lifelong interest of mine, particularly birds, and my role at Robson & Prescott has allowed me to develop this passion. I have had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of avian, reptile, rodent, and zoo species, in addition to the animals we see in everyday practice.

I currently hold additional veterinary nursing certificates in both exotic species and zoo species.

That sounds like it keeps you busy. Are there any other nursing highlights or interests you've pursued?

I have always enjoyed sharing my knowledge with others and, over time, took on the role of Clinical Coach alongside my RVN duties. In 2006, I completed the A1 Assessor qualification to support student veterinary nurses in achieving their qualifications—a role I continue to enjoy today.

I also have a strong interest in dentistry and completed the BVNA Certificate in Dentistry for Veterinary Nurses in 2008.

Another significant responsibility I am heavily involved in is preparing and maintaining the Robson & Prescott hospital and branch surgeries for the RCVS Practice Standards Scheme inspections—the veterinary equivalent of an OFSTED inspection. This helps ensure we continue to meet the highest possible standards across all our locations.

Finally, what does being a veterinary nurse and part of the Robson & Prescott family mean to you?

I've always enjoyed my nursing role because of the variety and challenges it brings. It is an incredibly rewarding profession and, personally, I consider it a vocation. Every day is different.

I am grateful for the many opportunities I have been given over the years, as well as the incredible team of vets, nurses, care assistants, and support staff I have had the privilege of working alongside. It truly is a team effort, and there is so much that happens behind the scenes every day to support patient care.