RCVS holds event on neurodivergent student support
Delegates discussed the types of adjustments that could be put in place.
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) has held a stakeholder event to help it develop guidelines for supporting neurodivergent students.
One hundred delegates took part in the hybrid event at the Royal College of Surgeons, London, on Friday, 14 June, with nearly half the delegates taking part virtually. Those attending included neurodivergent veterinary students, academic staff, and representatives from placement providers.
The day featured a mix of talks and group discussions. Speakers included Kirstie Pickles, a veterinary surgeon and neurodiversity and mental health advocate, Anna Hollis, director of equine services at the University of Cambridge, and Angharad Belcher, RCVS director for the advancement of the professions.
Discussions focused on the following three questions:
- How do we set up placements to be successful?
- How can we support students with frequent change of rotation placements?
- What are the types of adjustments that could be put in place?
Ms Belcher said: “This event represented a crucial step forward in our collective efforts to ensure that neurodivergent students receive the support they need to excel in their studies and beyond.
“For many the workplace can be a challenging environment to join, let alone when considering neurodivergent needs.
“Our hope is that, by laying out clear guidance, it will empower students to make the most of their time on placement, but also have a ripple effect within workplaces and organisations to consider their approach and focus on the benefits that each individual can bring, in turn impacting recruitment and retention within the workforce.”
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The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.
