Student Loans Advice

Tixie_2

Hi,

I'm hoping to retrain as a veterinary nurse later this year but I'm a little concerned if I'd be able to afford to do so.

I've read that if you have previously done a higher education course and had a loan then you would not qualify again for another loan. Daft as it may sound, is a bursary considered the same thing? I originally trained with the NHS and received a bursary then, although that was over 10 years ago.

I also have a mortgage so would the fact that I'm a home owner mean that I would likely receive less even if I were successful with a loan?

This is something I really want to do, I'm just worried about funding myself and I'm trying to figure out the best way to go about it. Any advice would be appreciated

Thanks

V_Chic_Chick

You're referring to the ELQ rules, which state that you can't get funding (which includes loans, grants and bursaries) for a new qualification, if you already have a qualification that is at the same or higher level as the new one that you want to study.

It doesn't matter how the first qualification was funded. Owning your own home and having savings do not affect it, it's only your income that affects the level of student finance that you are eligible for.

On a slightly more positive note, I believe that vets generally prefer to employ vet nurses who trained on the job, rather than in an academic setting. That said, I don't work in the sector, so it's something that you would be better off double checking.

dizzyrascal

As you say you have a mortgage I presume that you are not flexible about where you can go to study? I ask because there are only a few universities that offer the BSC in Veterinary Nursing so unless you have one on your doorstep it might be difficult to pursue a degree in the subject.
V Chic Chick is correct that the training and the VN qualification is offered by local Veterinary practices. Infact you cannot get on a course without being sponsored by an accredited training practice.
It might help to look here at the RCVS site
These positions are highly sought after so be prepared for strong competition. (it is surprisingly popular with graduates).
It will help if you could show you have done some voluntary work with animals, the good and the bad stuff, not just the fluffy kitten/puppy stuff.
Look at your local city farms, dog/cat charities. You can try the RSPCA but be aware that they are not always universally liked by the Veterinary profession as they tend more towards prosecution rather than training and educating owners.
Also, be prepared to apply for support roles too as a way in to a practice. You will still see a lot of animal work and gain a lot of knowledge whilst being a receptionist or in another support role. Most Vets would be happier to sponsor someone who they know and think will complete the training.

dizzyrascal

BTW just to add that the training route via an accredited Veterinary Surgery does not require funding from a student loan and is unaffected by previous study. The only requirement is that you work for a vet at the time of the study and you are therefore salaried, albeit at a fairly low level until qualified.
Newly qualified VN's can expect salaries of about 20k (higher in London) but it has never been an area of great pay.
Also bear in mind that you will have to work evenings and weekends on a rota system (unless you are very lucky)