The group consisted of 16 children, 2 young leaders and 6 adults who spent 2 hours exploring the site and finding out what it means to be involved in veterinary medicine. The Scouts spent the first half of the visit focusing on clinical skills. This involved learning how to bandage a paw as well as practicing surgical dexterity.
The group then headed over to the Brinsea building to learn how to identify different animals and parts of the body. The Scouts were given a series of skeletons and bones to examine and had to identify which type of animal they were from. The group also had the opportunity to learn how vital organs such as the heart function through practical dissection. This fantastic educational experience allowed the Scouts to dip their toes into the world of veterinary medicine and find out if a career with animals is something they might wish to pursue in the future.
Feedback from both the Scouts and their parents was really positive. When asked what their favourite part of the evening was, the Scouts struggled to pick just one session. Here is what one parent had to say about the visit to Langford:
“Just wanted to say thanks for organising such a fantastic evening for the kids. Mine found it fascinating and are properly buzzing still. Please pass on our thanks to all involved!”
Opening our doors
As is the case with any profession, giving back to the community and teaching them about the subject is always a pleasure. This is particularly the case in the veterinary world as animals are such a huge part of so many people’s lives. Sheena Warman, Deputy Head of School, said:
“The facilities at Langford are right on the Scouts’ doorstep. It was a pleasure to be able to invite them onto the campus and give them a taste of what the Veterinary School is really like and what is means to be able to work with animals.”
The visit wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the staff at the University of Bristol, who really enjoyed having the Scouts on campus. Justin McKinstry, Technical Manager, was heavily involved in the visit and shared his thoughts:
“I have been a volunteer at Scouts for many years now so it was great to be able to welcome Shipham Scouts onto campus. It was amazing to see the children’s enthusiasm and how interested they were in what we do at Bristol. I really hope visits such as these will help inspire the next generation to work with animals. Who knows, some of the children may be walking through the doors of Bristol University again in a few years, ready to train as a vet or a vet nurse.”
Get involved
Bristol Veterinary School was delighted to be able to host Shipham Scouts and is exploring options to host more groups and open up facilities to other members of the community. In the meantime, if you would like a taste of what life at Langford is really like, why not attend our local community fun day on Saturday 20th July? There will be interactive have-a-go clinical demos, tours of the practice and farm, games, children’s activities a series of short talks and much more. You will need to reserve your place in advance but the event is free to attend. We hope to see you in July!
Find out more: Community event | Bristol Veterinary School | University of Bristol