Extra-mural placements are an essential element of undergraduate veterinary education. Students must complete a minimum of 38 weeks EMS during their course. This normally consists of 12 weeks pre-clinical and 26 weeks of clinical placements. As a mixed practice group we are able to offer students experience and knowledge in a wide range of animal species.
Placements provide an opportunity for students to gain real life experience within a practice settling, they can further practise their animal-handling and clinical skills, as well as build up their experience of dealing with clients and with members of the veterinary team.
Attending an EMS placement enables new graduates to ‘hit the ground running’ once they have completed their 5 year degree course. EMS helps students to prepare for work, and introduces them to the important concept of lifelong learning and reflective practice which then continues after graduation through the Professional Development Phase and continuing CPD.
The aim of EMS
The aim of EMS is to enable students to gain practical experience in as many aspects of veterinary work as possible, including the handling of animals, to achieve proficiency in routine techniques, and give students first-hand experience which will help them to develop as professionals. Specifically, EMS should enable students to:
- develop their animal handling skills across a range of common domestic species
- develop their understanding of the practice and economics of animal management systems and animal industries
- appreciate the importance of herd health and the epidemiological approach to production animal work
- develop their understanding of practice economics and practice management
- develop their understanding and gain further experience of medical and surgical treatments in a variety of species
- develop communication skills for all aspects of veterinary work
- expand their experience to those disciplines and species not fully covered within the university
- appreciate the importance of animal welfare in animal production and in the practice of veterinary medicine
- gain experience to help them appreciate the ethical and legal responsibilities of the veterinary surgeon in relation to individual clients, animals, the community and society
- gain experience of a variety of veterinary working environments
All students are supervised by our experienced Veterinary Surgeons and Nurses, we aim to provide a supportive and wide variety of experience from observation and involvement in clinical work, clinical discussions and assisting with surgical procedures (as appropriate for your year of study).
If you would like to be considered for a placement at the Willows Veterinary Group, please forward your details to Julie-Ann Goryl at recruitment@willowsvetgroup.co.uk, include details of any particular areas of interest and any EMS placements to date.
