Seeing practice

As a statutory exam candidate you can come to the UK to undertake veterinary practice placements. We call this “seeing practice”.

Seeing practice is an invaluable way to prepare for your exam. It helps you adjust your veterinary knowledge to UK practice, and gives you an insight into life as a vet in this country.

Telling us about your placement

It’s important to tell us when you’ve arranged to spend time seeing practice here in the UK. Please complete the seeing practice form and email it to [email protected].

What can you do when seeing practice?

You can’t work as a veterinary surgeon or veterinary nurse while on your placement. However, you can take part in many areas of veterinary practice.

Exam candidates fall under Section 19 of the Code of Professional Conduct. This means that throughout your placement, you’ll be supported by an RCVS-registered veterinary surgeon.

You may take part in the following activities, as long as the vet supervising you has given permission:

• Examine animals and carry out diagnostic tests under the direction of a registered veterinary surgeon. 'Direction' means that the veterinary surgeon instructs the you as to the tests or treatment to be administered but is not necessarily present.
• Administer treatment under the supervision of a registered veterinary surgeon. 'Supervision' means that the veterinary surgeon is present on the premises and able to respond to a request for assistance if needed.
• Perform surgical operations under the direct and continuous personal supervision of a registered veterinary surgeon. 'Direct and continuous personal supervision' means that the veterinary surgeon is present and giving you their undivided personal attention.

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