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New pathway for aspiring vet students
Students wishing to commence their studies in September 2019 can now apply for the new course.

University introduces preparatory year 

Harper Adams University has introduced a new pathway for students who need additional learning and experience before starting vet school.

The Extended Degree in Bioveterinary Science (Veterinary Science) includes a preparatory year, with a dedicated pathway for aspiring vet school students.

According to the university, this additional year will help students to advance their practical and academic skills, ready for entry to the Harper and Keele Veterinary School in 2020.

The pathway includes two veterinary related vocational skills modules focused on farm and equine, and companion animals respectively. It also allows students to broaden their outlook by studying global issues and their business impact.

Carwyn Ellis, head of the animal production, welfare and veterinary sciences department, said: “This is an excellent opportunity for someone with the required academic achievements who has been unable to obtain the required levels of practical experience to qualify for vet school, to obtain such experience during a structured year for which student finance is available – for both tuition and living costs.

“It’s not unusual for someone to struggle to gain farm experience, as they might not have the connections. But here we have a full working farm with multiple livestock operations, as well as our companion animal house with a range of species, and specialist staff with veterinary practice experience.”

Students wishing to commence their studies in September 2019 can now apply for the new course. Interviews will take place at the end of August.

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BSAVA partners with BVA Live 2026

News Story 1
 BSAVA is to partner with BVA Live (11-12 June 2026) to champion clinical research.

The organisation will be supporting BVA Live's Clinical Abstracts programme, showcasing selected abstracts of veterinary research throughout the event.

The clinical abstracts can be on any small animal veterinary subject, and must be based on research undertaken in industry, practice or academia. Abstracts can be presented in poster or oral formats.

Submissions will open on 15th December 2025, and close on 6th March 2026. You can register interest here

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News Shorts
Nominations open for RCVS and VN Council elections

The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.