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Inspiring Vet Care Bootcamps Help Prepare The Next Generation Of Farm And Equine Vets
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Veterinary students from across the UK have gained practical farm and equine experience through inspiring vet care’s annual bootcamp programme, created to improve access to hands-on EMS and encourage more students to consider careers in large animal practice.
This summer, students from veterinary schools across the UK took part in inspiring vet care’s fourth annual farm and equine bootcamps, combining practical skills training, clinical learning and career development.
The initiatives were created to help address some of the barriers students can face when gaining experience in large animal practice, while providing exposure to the rewarding and varied career opportunities available within the profession.
Twenty-four veterinary students attended farm bootcamps in the Midlands and Scotland, led by Regional Heads of Farm Gill Whitehurst, Hugh Thompson and Navaratnam Partheeban. Sessions covered dairy fertility, mobility scoring, parasite control, lameness, foot trimming and camelid medicine.
The farm programme was designed to make placements more accessible for students who may face financial or practical barriers. Two fully funded places were offered to students from underrepresented backgrounds, with bursaries also available to help with accommodation, travel and training costs.
The equine bootcamp brought together fourteen third, fourth and fifth-year veterinary students for a week of hands-on learning with teams from Scarsdale Equine Clinic, Pool House Equine Clinic and Oakham Veterinary Hospital. As with the farm bootcamps, EMS bursaries were available to all students.
The programme covered diagnostics, dentistry, horse handling, ophthalmology, suturing, surgical techniques, lameness assessment and case-based learning. Students also networked with experienced equine clinicians and explored career pathways in equine practice.
Navaratnam Partheeban, Regional Head of Farm at inspiring vet care, said:
"We’re proud to champion equity in farm veterinary practice by giving students access to inspiring role models, practical experience and a genuine opportunity to explore farm animal careers, whatever their background or previous experience."
"Watching this year's cohort learn, grow in confidence and support one another throughout the week has been a real privilege."
Jacqui Paton, Clinical Director at Scarsdale Farm & Equine and Chair of inspiring vet care’s Equine Clinical Board, said: "The Equine Bootcamp gives aspiring equine vets access to practical clinical experience in a supportive environment."
"The expertise, dedication and collaborative spirit of colleagues across our practices continue to create a unique learning environment that helps students build confidence, develop their skills and gain valuable insight into a career in equine practice."
The bootcamps form part of inspiring vet care’s wider commitment to supporting the future veterinary workforce by improving access to practical training, clinical development and career-building opportunities.
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