The Veterinary Schools Council will provide informed opinion on matters concerning veterinary education.

New body represents the interests of seven UK veterinary schools

The Veterinary Schools Council, a new body which represents the interests of seven UK veterinary schools offering degrees accredited by the RCVS, has been launched.

The Council, which comprises the heads of seven of the UK's veterinary schools - including the RVC and The Royal (Dick) School -  will provide informed opinion on matters concerning veterinary education, from the welfare of its students and academic researchers, to its links with government and industry.

The Veterinary Schools Council aims to promote international recognition of the UK veterinary schools for their excellence in education, research and clinical service.   It will focus on three key areas: promoting innovative veterinary education and collaboration, facilitating underpinning science and political engagement and monitoring data and best practice.

A launch event was held yesterday at the House of Lords and was attended by the central organisations and institutions in veterinary education. Speakers included Professor Gary England, chair of the Veterinary Schools Council; Professor Sir Peter Rubin, representing the Medical Schools Council; and John Williams, head of science strategy, performance & impact at the Wellcome Trust.

A new website for the Veterinary Schools Council is now live and contains information about the Council, where it comes from and its aims for the future.  For more information, visit: www.vetschoolscouncil.ac.uk.