Glynllifon Educator Honoured with National Veterinary Nursing Award
We are delighted to share that Laura Lacey, a dedicated member of our team at Glynllifon, has been named the 2026 CQ Veterinary Nursing Educator of the Year.
Laura, who is the Head of Centre for Veterinary Nursing at Glynllifon and an assessor for the Veterinary Nursing Apprenticeships, received this prestigious award at a ceremony held at Central Hall Westminster, in London, on 28 March 2026. The trophy was presented by the well-known wildlife filmmaker and presenter, Gordon Buchanan.
Recognising Excellence in Teaching
The Veterinary Nursing Educator of the Year award celebrates the commitment and hard work of staff who support veterinary nursing students. What makes this win particularly special is that Laura was nominated by her own students, who praised her for her compassion, understanding and dedication.
One nominee wrote: “Without her input and dedication to the job, we would not have the amazing and confident Registered Veterinary Nurses we have working in North Wales today.”
From left to right, Cari Mason Williams, Ela Pugh, Laura Lacey, Ela Alcock, Cara Morgan
A Wealth of Experience for Our Students
With more than 25 years’ experience in the industry, Laura brings a deep passion to her role at Grŵp Llandrillo Menai. Her career began in equine care before she moved into small animal practice in 2001. She joined Glynllifon in 2017, taking on the role of Head of Centre for Veterinary Nursing in 2024.
Laura is a strong advocate for the work-based training route, which allows apprentices to combine hands-on, practical learning with essential theory.
“I love the opportunities for kinaesthetic learning that come with the diploma route, and being able to support learners with adaptive theoretical learning alongside this is fantastic,” she said.
“I want to be a tutor who students remember positively — one who inspires and supports,” added Laura. “I am proud to be part of the next generation's journey. I love seeing them thrive in an industry that I am so passionate about, still after a quarter of a century in it!”
Congratulations to Laura on this fantastic achievement!
Whether you are a prospective student looking to start your career in industry, or a local business interested in taking on an apprentice, visit https://www.gllm.ac.uk/course-type/apprenticeships to find out more about what Grŵp Llandrillo Menai can offer you.