Appendix 1

The EMS policy can be read in full within the 2023 accreditation standards for veterinary programmes.

The EMS policy within the 2023 standards maintains the previous requirement for 12 weeks AHEMS and 26 weeks Clinical EMS.

Updates to the 2023 policy includes added clarity on the criteria for EMS, for example AHEMS needing to be taken in person, and to directly involve animals. Other than the need for one week of AHEMS in equine, production animal and companion animal settings, there is no stipulation around requirements for EMS with particular species. Exemptions of up to six weeks of AHEMS are permitted where a student can demonstrate considerable previous experience in a particular area of animal handling.

Regarding clinical EMS, there are no species requirements in the RCVS 2023 policy, and students are encouraged to gain further experience in areas that would interest and benefit them the most. Up to two weeks’ ‘professional’ EMS is permitted, that is, on non-clinical placements relevant to the veterinary profession. More than two weeks’ professional EMS can be allowed for at schools’ discretion if a student has a particular interest in a non-clinical area, for example, research.