The state-of-the-art Veterinary Nursing and Technical Skills Centre at Hartpury University was officially opened by Chancellor Martin Clunes on Friday 14 March, during a special event at the Gloucestershire campus. In his opening speech, Martin praised the ‘care’ of this special industry, and how the facility will help to address the industry need for more qualified veterinary nurses.
Staff and students were joined by the Governors, as well as guests from the design and build team, local council, funders, and wider veterinary nursing profession.
The building provides students with a state-of-the-art learning centre that provides an engaging and structured learning experience for students, staff and industry. It also reflects Hartpury University’s ongoing vision to produce the very best veterinary nurses that continue to meet and exceed the needs of employers, with its comprehensive veterinary nursing programmes fully accredited by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).
The ground floor accommodates two laboratories with a shared preparation room and a flexible study space, while the first floor is home to a clinical skills centre that will be used largely for teaching clinical skills. Students can make use of animal simulators and training models, supported by qualified veterinary professionals and teachers, in preparation for their future careers. An individual tuition room and office space for staff are also provided within the building.
The building is BREEAM- certified with external areas include car parking, circulation roads, soft landscaping, and electric vehicle charging points. The construction team was an all-Gloucestershire group with Vitruvius Management Services as project lead, procuring Roberts Limbrick as architects and Barnwood Construction at the main contractor.
Rosie Scott-Ward, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Hartpury University said: “We’re thrilled to launch this outstanding facility, which further strengthens our position as a leader in veterinary nursing education. Our students will benefit from an unparalleled learning experience, preparing them to meet the growing demands of the veterinary profession.
“I would like to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt thanks to those who have helped bring this vision to life. A special thank you to The Garfield Weston Foundation, Neil Curwen, Burtons Medical Equipment Ltd, Barnwood, and Vitruvius, for their invaluable support. Their generosity, creativity and commitment has been instrumental in making this project a reality.
“A particular mention must also go to our veterinary nursing team led by Catherine Phillips, who play such a vital role in delivering our programmes. This facility will further enhance their teaching, providing a dedicated, controlled space where students can refine their clinical skills before applying them in real-world veterinary practice.”
Mark Price, Managing Director of Vitruvius Management Services said: “Vitruvius are proud to have supported our long-term clients, Hartpury University and Hartpury College, as project lead from inception through to final delivery of this fantastic new facility.”
Stuart Pearce, Joint Managing Director of Barnwood Construction said: “We’re incredibly proud to celebrate the opening of this state-of-the-art learning centre, a facility designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and training they need to thrive.
“From the outset, the university’s goal has been to create an inspiring and high-quality learning environment that will serve as a catalyst for the personal and professional development of our veterinary nurses of the future. It’s fantastic to see this vision come to life and to have played our part in its delivery.”
