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Meet the latest team members shaping Veterinary Nursing at Harper Adams University 

At Harper Adams, a strong foundation in veterinary nursing doesn’t just come from textbooks — but from experience, empathy, and having the right people guiding you through your journey. That’s why we’re so excited to introduce you to some of the newest team members to join as educators shaping the next generation of Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs).  

Meet Vicky, Sioned and Clare — three professionals who bring not just clinical know-how, but real-life insights, resilience, and a genuine passion for student support. 

Vicky Smeaton — From student nurse to support system 

"I'm Vicky, Clinical Educator for Veterinary Nursing and Course Tutor for the Year 1 student Veterinary Nurses. My own journey into vet nursing began in 2018 when I started as a Veterinary Nursing Assistant — and within six months, I was enrolled on a Diploma route." 

Like many students, Vicky’s path wasn’t always smooth. Studying and sitting exams during the pandemic, facing redundancy, and even changing course providers partway through training could have derailed things — but she persevered, qualifying in 2022. 

"I’ve worked in both independent and corporate practices across the Midlands, and while I love inpatient care, my real passion is clinical governance — using audits and SOPs to push for continual improvement and evidence-based nursing." 

Vicky also brings a unique energy to her work — quite literally. When she’s not supporting students, you’ll find her running a boxing and kickboxing gym in her spare time. 

"As a tutor, I want to bring a holistic, wellbeing-focused approach to clinical coaching. I know how overwhelming the pressure can be, and I want to be part of the support system that helps students thrive — not just academically, but personally. We’ll talk boundaries, work-life balance, and building resilience. The best lessons don’t just come from the classroom — they come from lived experience." 

Sioned Morris-Woolcock — back to where it all began

“Hi, I’m Sioned, and I’ve recently joined the team as a Teaching Assistant in the Veterinary Nursing section of the Animal Health, Behaviour and Welfare department. I started my journey into the profession as a teenager back in Pembrokeshire, volunteering at a mixed practice — it was there that I first saw the vital role RVNs play in nursing care. That spark brought me to Harper Adams, where I graduated in 2017 with a BSc (Hons) in Veterinary Nursing and Practice Management." 

Sioned’s experience spans first-opinion practice and out-of-hours emergency care, and shebecame a clinical coach not long after qualifying.  

Her passion is supporting SVNs tonavigate the ups and downs of placement and early career decisions. 

"I’m currently researching how we teach professional skills — and whether we could be doing more to help students build boundaries, manage stress, and adapt to change. Especially now, with a vet school alongside us, there's a real opportunity to strengthen understanding and collaboration between vets and nurses — so both sides appreciate just how integral they are to each other's success." 

Sioned’s first language is Welsh — and switching to English for academic studies was a challenge at first. But with the right support, she thrived — and she’s here to offer that same level of support to students facing similar transitions. 

Clare Oglesby — a new chapter, backed by 30 years' experience

"My name’s Clare, and I’m a lecturer in Veterinary Sciences — and though this is my first academic role, I’ve worked in vet practice for nearly 30 years. Most of my time was spent in first opinion practices, but I’ve also worked in emergency care, a charity hospital, and even looked after exotic species." 

Clare has always had a passion for mentoring students and watching lightbulb moments happen — and now, she’s bringing that energy to the classroom. 

"My goal is to bring theory-heavy topics to life with real-world context. I’ve also recently returned to studying myself — I’m in the final year of a Masters Degree in Advanced Veterinary Nursing — and it’s reminded me how tough it can be to get back into academic life. Time management, writing styles, new tech like AI — I’ve had to learn all over again." 

Clare’s personal experience as a mature student helps her deeply relate to what today’s students are juggling: coursework, clinical hours, personal lives, and everything in between. 

"Veterinary nursing is a vocation. If I can help students grow in confidence, resilience and passion, then I’ll know I’ve done my job." 

(And if you ever want to talk air travel — Clare once flew a plane over the Gower Peninsula!) 

Here for the journey, not just the job

Vicky, Clare and Sioned may come from different backgrounds, but all share a common goal: to support the next generation of veterinary nurses  in becoming not only competent and confident professionals, but well-rounded people. Whether you're just starting out or halfway through your training, remember that you're not alone. They’ve been there, get it, and are here to help you succeed. 

Wondering where you might see us? 
 
For any first-year vet nurses joining us, you’ll see Vicky plenty! She’ll be one of the friendly faces supporting you through your first year of learning as course tutor. Alongside this she’ll be carrying out teaching sessions, practicals and helping manage HRP projects for final-year students. 

Whether it’s handling sessions, lab skills, imaging or even communication, you’ll find Sioned helping with all things practical, bringing her clinical experience into the classroom. 

You’ll meet Clare across all years of study, covering an array of topics from anatomy, feline-friendly topics, exotics, evidence-based nursing and pain management. 

Find out more about studying Veterinary Nursing at Ãå±±½ûµØ.