Highlighting veterinary careers for British Science Week

During British Science Week (7-16 March), we were delighted to partner with the STEM Learning charity to deliver an online veterinary careers session to over 3,000 primary school students aged between 7 and 11 across the UK.

Our guest speakers highlighted the variety of roles available in veterinary medicine and nursing, ranging from caring for farm animals to small pets and even working in airport settings.

Rosie Powley, RCVS Outreach and Engagement Manager, said: "Our amazing guest speakers shared with students what they do in a typical day as a vet and vet nurse, what they most and least enjoy about their role and, of course, all of the animals they have worked with."

Following the presentation, the students asked the panel a series of thought-provoking questions, including: 'Do you have to be brave to be a vet and vet nurse?' 'Can you be a vet if you find maths tricky?' and 'What's the most unusual animal you have ever worked with?'

The session received a large amount of positive feedback from the schools involved. Below are short interviews with some of the people who took part in the session.

Declan Jones

Registered Veterinary Nurse and Clinical Supervisor working on the Kent Coast

How did you find the session?

The support leading up to the event was excellent, with clear communication and check-ins.  The event itself was managed very well, with a charismatic facilitator and well considered script.  The interaction with the schools was also handled well, with a range of questions taken from those submitted and distributed evenly throughout the speaker panel.  All in all, it was a very relaxed and smooth experience.

Why did you want to take part in the session?

I want to do my part in promoting my profession to the next generation - especially ensuring young boys understand that a "nursing" role isn't exclusively for female professionals.  I think sharing a little bit of our enthusiasm, why we love our job, and the expertise we hold can really open some eyes and start some cogs turning. 

What did you want to get across?

I tried to show my passion for our profession to the kids, allowing them to see what it looks like to love your job - and that work can be fun and rewarding (even if they don't like school now!).   

Maia Clay

Student veterinary nurse studying at Harper Adams College in Gloucestershire

Why did you want to take part in the session?

I wanted to take part to raise awareness of veterinary nursing as a career and the farm side of the veterinary industry. 

What did you want to get across?

That not being as good at maths and science should not stop a student from pursuing a career in Veterinary. They will just have to try harder which will make the career and the progress to that career more rewarding.