Nichola Coombes is the Manager of the Clinical Skills Centre at the Royal Veterinary College, UK. Initially trained as a veterinary nurse, Nichola later gained an MSc in Veterinary Education to advance scholarship in teaching and learning. In her current role, Nichola teaches and assesses clinical skills for veterinary nurses, undergraduate veterinary students and postgraduate students. Nichola’s research is based on facilitation and acquisition of veterinary practical and clinical skills. Nichola has been awarded the James Bee Educator Award in 2004-05 and again in 2009-10 for her contributions to teaching.

Ayona Silva-Fletcher is the Course director for the MSc in Veterinary Education at the Royal Veterinary College, UK and has over 25 years of experience in teaching and research in UK Higher Education. Initially trained as a veterinarian and with a PhD in Ruminant Nutrition, Ayona did a formal qualification in education and graduated with an MA in Medical Education in 2010. Ayona’s research profile now includes veterinary faculty development, distance education and elephant nutrition. In 2012, Ayona was awarded a National Teaching Fellowship in the UK for her contributions to veterinary education.