Independent, family-owned vet group The Pet Vet is proud to announce the relaunch of its EMS (Extra-Mural Studies) sponsorship scheme; a structured, supportive, and career-building programme designed to cultivate the next generation of thriving veterinary professionals.
Throughout the year, vet students are invited to participate in EMS small animal placements at all The Pet Vet surgeries, where they will be actively involved in clinical activities and gain hands-on experience to develop their soft skills.
Based on the EMS placements, students are selected for the sponsorship programme, which is tailored to provide a clear pathway from university to professional veterinary practice, including:
- £5,000 annual sponsorship for the remaining period of study
- Guaranteed small animal placements
- Structured mentorship from experienced head vets and nurses
- A confirmed graduate position and smooth transition into the profession
- A clear route to completing the RCVS VetGDP within 18 months
Dr Mel Fuller, chief executive officer at The Pet Vet, says: "Our goal is not just to train future vets – it's to empower them with confidence, mentorship, and meaningful experiences so they can thrive in real-world practice. We're investing in students who show potential, cultural fit, and the drive to succeed."
The impact of the programme is already being felt by those who have progressed through the scheme. Dr Niamh Dunne-Mason MRCVS, a highly confident and capable 2024 graduate, shared: "I came to The Pet Vet as a sponsored vet student and loved the sense of teamwork and inclusivity. Since working with The Pet Vet, my confidence has grown massively and the support I’ve received from the team has been incredible."
The relaunch of the sponsorship programme has also involved a refresh of The Pet Vet’s EMS placement experience, including:
- The introduction of a redesigned EMS calendar and online booking system
- Closer links with university tutors
- An EMS evaluation process to continually refine placements based on student feedback
- Year 3, 4 and 5 EMS students working alongside senior clinical colleagues, based on mutually agreed plans for the period of their placement
- Senior colleagues proposing students who meet the sponsorship selection criteria
- An invitation for shortlisted candidates to have to a virtual interview with the CEO before receiving an offer
In addition to clinical training, the sponsorship provides access to tailored CPD, a peer network, graduate talks, and opportunities to explore areas of clinical interest, that can lead into Senior Vet or Advanced Veterinary Practitioner (AVP) roles
Veterinary students interested in EMS placements or the sponsorship programme can email The Pet Vet, book via the RCVS EMS platform or visit The Pet Vet website for more information.
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