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Survey seeks views on graduate competencies
The VSC hopes that schools will use the information to make analyses of their own graduates.
Questions based on standards defined by the RCVS
 
The Veterinary Schools Council (VSC) has launched a national employer survey to provide data on graduate competencies.

The survey asks for the employer’s feedback on the performance of the most recent graduate from a UK, Irish or Dutch Veterinary school.

The questions ask about both clinical and non-clinical aspects of a graduate’s performance and are based on the standards defined by the RCVS, the Veterinary Council of Ireland and the American Veterinary Medical Association.

“It is the employers who see the results of our hard work in the veterinary schools. For this reason, it is important to build on our relationship with them and ensure that dialogue is strong,” commented Professor Ewan Cameron, chair of the VSC.

“This survey will be an excellent way to do this while helping us to ensure the continued quality of our students. Through it, we can work with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons to ensure that the outcomes for graduates, which define the goals of veterinary education, are meeting the needs of employers.”

The VSC hopes that schools will use the information to make analyses of their own graduates, while the VSC will issue a report which analyses graduates as a whole.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.