It’s never too late: Catrina Sheltinga’s award-winning career change
Award-winning veterinary nurse Catrina Sheltinga never expected she would achieve her goal of working in the veterinary industry, but has now been recognised with top honours after returning to education later in life.
Catrina was named Veterinary Nursing Apprentice of the Year in 2026 and has since gone on to receive a prestigious Worshipful Livery Company of Wales award for her expertise in her chosen field. A former apprentice, Catrina is also a mother of three and grandmother of two, and is proving that having a family doesn’t mean putting your ambitions on hold. She had always wanted to work with animals, but while her children were young, the demands of training for such a career felt out of reach alongside family life. Her passion never left her, and when the time was right, she chose to pursue an apprenticeship in Veterinary Nursing with Grŵp Llandrillo Menai. The apprenticeship allowed her to earn while she learned in a real veterinary practice, combining theory with hands-on experience. “I completed the Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing because I’d always wanted to work in the veterinary industry, and I believed it was something I was capable of achieving. The apprenticeship offers a balance of theory and practical learning – the theory helped me understand the role in depth, and the hands-on practical work allowed me to put that knowledge into practice. “At this stage in my life, I wasn’t sure I would be able to achieve what I have now. The apprenticeship enabled me to realise my goal of working in a veterinary practice. Since completing the apprenticeship, I’ve progressed to Head Nurse at the practice and I now support new students as a clinical coach, helping them on their own journey.” Catrina now works at Wern Vets in Llanrwst, where Practice Manager Gwen Evans added: “We are extremely proud of Catrina for qualifying as a Registered Veterinary Nurse. Her journey has involved years of commitment, learning, and determination - it has been wonderful to see her skills and confidence grow throughout her training. Catrina has always approached her work with enthusiasm and compassion, and her achievement is very well deserved. “Apprenticeships are hugely valuable to our practice, as they allow individuals to learn while gaining real experience in a busy clinical environment. Watching apprentices develop their knowledge, confidence, and practical skills over time is incredibly rewarding and helps ensure the future strength of our profession. Catrina’s success is a fantastic example of how effective and important the apprenticeship pathway can be.” Apprenticeships are available across a wide range of industries and are open to adults in employment looking to upskill or change career, as well as school and college leavers — age, life stage and experience are no barrier. Find out more: https://www.gllm.ac.uk/course-type/apprenticeships |
