The partnership is a further educational evolution of the Vet School’s undergraduate teaching programme. It builds on the success of the Vet School’s existing educational partnerships with Bridgwater & Taunton College, PDSA, RSPCA, Bristol Zoo and others who provide clinical training experience for Bristol students. The Vet School has been working closely with CVS over the summer in preparation for this new model, which will provide vet students with a richer and wider caseload than was previously available to them.

In addition to these extramural rotations in CVS clinics, all final year undergraduate students will also rotate through the Vet School’s own first opinion practice, charity equine partner (World Horse Welfare) and, have a greater emphasis this year on equine dentistry. It compliments, but does not replace or replicate, the extra mural studies experience which remains a key part of student learning under the direction of the RCVS.

Professor Richard Hammond, Head of Bristol Veterinary School, said: “I am very pleased that we have added CVS as a key educational partner to the School, and through this our equine clinical training. I am confident that this model allows our students to see a wider range of cases in a practical clinic situation. This evolution of the programme responds to the call from the profession to retain clinical training in referral level environments but increase the emphasis on educating our undergraduates to the highest standard in a primary care setting.

“I am excited, not only for our students who want a general equine experience, but also those who aspire to a focus on equine clinical practice. Although our partnership is driven by enhancing education, we look forward to building further collaborations around research both in education and equine clinical science.”

James Cahill, Group Business Development Director at CVS, commented: “We are delighted with the opportunity to partner with the University of Bristol and give their Veterinary Students the opportunity to learn from our expert, experienced and highly qualified equine practitioners across the United Kingdom. We take our responsibilities to the Veterinary Profession very seriously and this is an opportunity for CVS Equine to contribute meaningfully to the future of the Veterinary Profession.”

Hattie Lawrence, Equine Director for CVS, added: “This represents another step forward for our model of providing outstanding clinical educational partnerships with key Veterinary Schools. As an experienced placement provider, we see this initiative as a broadening of our portfolio into the equine clinical area with mutual benefit.

“At CVS we firmly believe in supporting the future of the Profession through high quality education, so this is a logical and positive step forward for us. We have been working hard over the summer with our clinical staff and with the school to facilitate a fantastic experience in an environment, which allows students access to a great caseload with enthusiastic and supportive staff. I would like to thank all our staff for their hard work and enthusiasm in preparation. We are very much looking forward to welcoming our first rotation students from Bristol Veterinary School.”