FAST-TRACK SQP INTEGRATION for Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs)
To make career progression simpler, Vetpol has introduced a fast track, Companion Animal SQP Integration for RVNs course, available from September 2026.
When we say “fast track” we mean it….it is now possible for RVNs to progress to Companion Animal SQP within just four weeks! That’s from start of studies to sitting on the Vetpol SQP Register and being permitted to supply Companion Animal medicines independently from a vet.
Interest in SQP status is accelerating, following the recent CMA Review into the veterinary sector and the increasing drive towards contextualised care. RVNs are core to the delivery of contextualised care as nurse consults offer clients choice – not everyone needs to see a vet.
Becoming an SQP also dovetails nicely with the proposed Nurse Prescriber role being debated currently.
Registered Veterinary Nurses play a vital role in supporting animal health and welfare, and many are now choosing to expand their professional scope by becoming Suitably Qualified Persons (SQPs). RVNs can now achieve this status faster than ever before with Vetpol’s SQP Integration for RVNs.
A Fast Track Through RPL
Through a carefully designed process of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), the new course has been fully mapped against the RCVS one‑day competencies for veterinary nurses. This means RVNs can now achieve SQP status through a streamlined, efficient pathway that recognises their existing training and experience.
Successful completion provides eligibility to join the Vetpol SQP Register, opening the door to new responsibilities, enhanced professional standing, and expanded career opportunities.
RVNs can choose to take time over their studies – up to two years – but the timeframe is potentially short, largely due to a speedy process for exam set-up and results turnaround. We thank our partners at Lantra for achieving this – the assessment is accredited by Lantra, taken with them, and successful candidates with receive Lantra certificates after passing the exam.
This means it is possible for RVNs to progress from the start of studies to being registered Companion Animal SQPs in just 4 weeks!
The training is accredited by Vetpol and counts as nine hours CPD.
Course Structure and Price
The SQP Integration for RVNs course has been designed to be concise, flexible, and achievable alongside clinical work:
- 9 hours of self-study via online modules, with full support if required
- 1‑hour exam
- The online exam is taken with Lantra who offer a fast turnaround on exam results, meaning the entire process is efficient, streamlined and speedy.
This structure ensures RVNs can progress quickly – possibly from start to finish in a matter of weeks – while demonstrating a full understanding of the legislation and decision‑making skills required of an SQP.
The all-inclusive price for the Vetpol SQP Integration course is just £485 + VAT and includes access to online study materials, student support, exam fees, entry to the Vetpol SQP Register and SQP “qualified professional” badge.
For a full list of prices visit our Pricing Page.
Please watch Caroline Johnson in a short YouTube video give 3 compelling reasons why employers should consider training SQPs….even those who do not stock VPS medicines.
Any Other Questions?
Firstly, please visit our FAQ page and if you cannot find what you are looking for then don’t hesitate to contact us as we are happy to respond to your queries and (hopefully!) welcome you on board!
