Deaf Myerscough student lands dream Veterinary Nursing role

Bethany Acton graduated with a Foundation Degree in Veterinary Nursing and begins her new role at the Vets4Pets practice in Morecambe next month.

As Beth is deaf, the course has been particularly challenging for her because of the massive amount of veterinary terminology she has had to learn, both in college and out on placement. As communication is also vital to the job, she has had to develop her skills in this area to be able to work in a stressful practice environment, where effective communication can mean the difference between life and death for an animal.  

The 20-year-old, from Heysham, said: ’’I did my original placement at another local practice but unfortunately they didn’t have any vacancies. I’m really pleased to have been given this opportunity with Vets4Pets and can’t wait to get started.’’

The former Heysham High pupil added: ‘’My course at Myerscough lasted three years. I looked at similar courses at colleges in Edinburgh and London, but Myerscough ticked all the right boxes. I’d heard about the college’s reputation already and as it wasn’t too far to travel either it was perfect.’’

‘’I’m very glad I chose Myerscough. The course is very good and everything I thought it would be. It’s a packed timetable and the learning is very intense which meant that it was stressful at times, but that was what I liked about it and it kept me focussed.’’

The student support network in place at Myerscough College meant that Bethany, who is assisted by a special hearing loop necklace as well as being able to lip read, could take part fully in a normal timetable.

She said: ‘’I’ve had massive support from the college to help me through. The tutors care about you and want you to succeed. I got all the extra help I needed, including one to one sessions and extra appointments with my tutors. I always wanted to work with animals and it’s all worked out perfectly.’’

And Bethany added she would highly recommend Myerscough to anyone looking to continue their studies: ‘’You get a very good standard of education here, with great support from staff who really care.’’

Bethany’s tutor, Senior Lecturer in Veterinary Nursing, Claire Bloor, said her graduation and job was an incredible achievement: ‘’Beth is a true inspiration to everyone at Myerscough. Her  determination and motivation to succeed has been outstanding throughout the course. All the vet nursing team are very proud of her.’’

‘’She has worked so incredibly hard throughout the course, and she has passed all of her final year exams first time, which is fantastic because there have been times where, due to her condition, she’s had problems interpreting some of the questions. Beth’s attitude is fantastic and she is an absolute star.’’