Newtownabbey student 'honoured' to receive publicly-nominated Veterinary Nurse of the Year award
A Newtownabbey student says she is honoured after picking up a prestigious veterinary nursing award.
Susan Houston, a Level 3 Veterinary Nursing student at the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), was recently recognised as Student Veterinary Nurse of the Year at the Agria Veterinary Community Awards.
She was one of three CAFRE students shortlisted for the award, alongside fellow finalists Alice Collins and Darcy Feeney.
Speaking about her success, Susan said: “I have been nominated for this award previously but had never won, so it is an absolute honour to receive it. It is a real highlight of my student Veterinary Nursing journey.”
Susan is employed at Gleno Veterinary Centre near Larne and has over 20 years of experience working in veterinary practice.
She began her training at CAFRE by completing the Level 2 Veterinary Care Assistant course, progressing to the Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing, and finishing her studies in early 2026.
Claire Morris, CAFRE acting programme manager for Veterinary Nursing provision, welcomed the recognition: “Three of our Veterinary Nursing students were nominated by the public and progressed to become finalists in this category.
"We are extremely proud of this achievement, which highlights the exceptional standard and dedication of CAFRE’s learners.”
She added: “Alice, Darcy and Susan exemplify the quality of students studying the Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing. They are highly valued by the veterinary practices where they are employed and continue to make a positive impact within the profession.”
CAFRE continues to play a leading role in developing highly skilled veterinary nursing professionals, supporting students to achieve excellence and contribute to the wider animal health sector.