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Record number of overseas vets pass Stat Exam
Thirteen of the successful candidates attended a ceremony in London.

Candidates from 19 countries join Register, including first refugee.

A record number of veterinary surgeons trained outside the UK have passed this year’s RCVS Statutory Examination for Membership and joined the Register of Veterinary Surgeons.

Twenty-seven candidates successfully passed the Stat Exam, including, for the first time ever, a veterinary surgeon with refugee status.

Hailing from the Middle East, where they had practised as a veterinary surgeon, the refugee candidate came to the UK in 2019 as their political and religious beliefs meant they were no longer safe in their home country.

Both the Refugee Council and the RCVS refugee support scheme supported them as the undertook the exam.

Although their name has not been shared publicly, to protect them and family members still in their home country, the candidate gave an interview to the RCVS.

Asked what advice they had for other refugee veterinary surgeons, they said: “They should not lose their hope. No matter how hard passing the exam may be, they have to strive to get back to the job they had in their home country.”

A ceremony was held at the Law Society, London, on Tuesday, 24 October to celebrate the candidates’ achievements. Thirteen of the candidates attended the event, which was hosted by RCVS president Sue Paterson and RCVS chief executive Lizzie Lockett.

The Stat Exam needs to be taken by veterinary surgeons with degrees that are not recognised by the RCVS in order to practise in the UK. It includes a written theory exam and a practical exam.

Speaking at the ceremony, Dr Paterson said: “I would like to start by congratulating all of you for the enormous hard work, commitment, drive and determination that you have shown in taking and passing the RCVS Stat Exam.

“It is particularly gratifying that, for the first time, we are welcoming to the Register someone with refugee status who has passed the exam.

“I had a look at the wide range of countries that we have represented amongst our successful candidates this year. I think, perhaps with the exception of the polar regions, we have vets from every continent. Alphabetically, the countries range from Belgium, Brazil and Bulgaria to Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey and Zimbabwe. In total, 19 countries.

“We are delighted to welcome you all to the veterinary profession in the UK.”

 

Image (C) RCVS

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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.