CPD and training plans are made for all employees annually, as part of an annual 1:1 meeting. We do a lot of the usual in-house training within normal working ours e.g., new equipment, ‘lunch and learns’, but also have time for 1:1 training. For example, John does surgical training with our assistant vets, and Laura has spent time teaching ultrasound techniques. We have done cytology training for the nursing team and arranged exotics CPD with our exotics vet.

We have a well-stocked library (all the BSAVA manuals for a start) and enjoy discussing cases. Regular vets meetings include ‘journal club’ where we can share any recent discoveries, as well as new products.

We support and fund external CPD, ranging from online courses to attendance at conferences, to certificates. Jemma is currently enrolled on her BSAVA ECC certificate, with Hasita starting her surgery certificate in 2027.

This does not just extend to vets. We supported our head nurse Caz through her DipAVN and BSc, cat crazy Claire through her ISFM certificate and RVN Laura Holderness, who recently completed her behaviour certificate. Nurses Laura Sproul, Caz and Ellen have completed certificates in nutrition, physiotherapy and rehabilitation, and emergency and critical care respectively. Lynzi, who joined us in 2023, has recently completed her exotics nursing certificate programme, while Heather studied for an advanced anaesthesia qualification.

We are RCVS VetGDP approved, with vet and owner John assigned as the new graduate mentor.

We employed Hasita as a new graduate in 2024 and Jemma as a new graduate in 2019. Both had already spent time with us on EMS, which is a great way of ensuring a good fit between employee and practice. Both Hasita and Jemma were confident and keen to get stuck in, with support. Examples of ways we minimise stress include longer consults/extra breaks in consult sessions initially, lots of ops time with another surgeon available to help, in house training and case discussion (e.g. ultrasound technique, cadaver surgery, vets meetings), a delay in joining the OOH rota until comfortable and dedicated back-up for as long as required, and regular 1:1 catch ups.

We have no limit on CPD budgets, with Jemma choosing to attend some practical dentistry CPD, ophthalmology and consulting CPD in her first year. Hasita opted to attend a practical surgery course and consultation skills training in her first year. We are happy to support graduates through a recognised independent new graduate scheme if they prefer.