Training and Preparedness of Clinical Coaches for Their Role in Training Student Veterinary Nurses in the United Kingdom: An Exploratory Inquiry

The experience that student veterinary nurses (SVNs) have in the clinical learning environment (CLE) can be greatly influenced by the clinical coach (CC); the supervisory relationship will affect student retention and clinical competency. To support a positive student experience, the training and development of CCs must be critically reviewed and regularly updated. This research aimed to ascertain the current CC training undertaken and the preparedness of CCs for their role in training SVNs. We used a prospective cross-sectional study design. An online survey was distributed over 4 weeks to CCs across the United Kingdom (UK) representing a range of educational institutions, and it generated 80 responses. Prior to undertaking their initial CC training, CCs had been qualified practitioners for a median of 2.2 years (IQR = 4.16). CCs stated they needed more course content during their training regarding student teaching and pastoral support, more support from associated institutions, and there was a call for a longer training period leading to a formal qualification. Providing CC training with broader course content and some level of evaluation should be considered to develop and assess the non-clinical skills that are vital to the role.