DrNicolle Kirkwood

Dr Nicolle Kirkwood is an experienced small-animal veterinarian and education-focused academic who teaches broadly across the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program. She is recognised for designing engaging, clinically authentic learning experiences that strengthen students’ practical skills, clinical reasoning, and professional capability.

Nicolle coordinates VETS6309 Small Animal Practice B, where she has led major curriculum redevelopment, including flipped-classroom integration, new problem-based learning activities, modernised assessments, and strengthened alignment with AVBC Day One Competencies. She also contributes to DVM1 and DVM2, where she redesigned physical examination practicals using simulations, updated pre-work materials, and a stronger focus on safe handling and vital-sign interpretation.

In the clinical setting, Nicolle teaches extensively in DVM4 Primary Care placements, supervising consultations, procedures, and case management, and providing structured feedback. She introduced the mini-Clinical Evaluation Exercise (mini-CEX) into Primary Care and contributed to its adoption as the School’s first tool for longitudinal, programmatic clinical assessment.

She is an enthusiastic mentor of DVM3 Research & Enquiry students and AVBS Honours students, supporting projects that contribute to veterinary clinical practice and education scholarship.

Nicolle’s teaching is characterised by authenticity, student-centred learning, and a strong commitment to developing confident, compassionate veterinarians prepared for contemporary general practice.