Tips For New Graduates
Whether you already are a UK resident or from one of many overseas countries starting your career in the UK. The following tips will help you navigate your career as a new graduate veterinary surgeon in the UK.
Building Your Career:
Gain Experience in the following ways:
Permanent Work: Strongly consider choosing a permanent role in a practice that has sufficient experienced veterinary surgeons to provide clinical and surgical support in at least the first few months of your new career.
Locum Work: Consider locum work to gain experience in different practices and possibly in different practice types but carefully consider the all important level of support available from the practice during your stay.
Internships: Seek internships to specialise in areas of interest under the supervision of highly experienced veterinary specialists.
Mentorship: If possible find an experienced veterinary surgeon, ideally in the same practice you are working in, that cam act as a mentor to guide you and offer advice at the start of your career.
Professional Development: Continuing Professional Development (CPD): New graduates in the UK are obliged to register for the Veterinary Graduate Development Program ( VetGDP) in their first 18 months, a CPD program specifically tailored for new graduates in order to ensure not only their clinical support but also the RVC high practice standards are adhered to. After this program is completed practising veterinary surgeons need to do a yearly 35 hours of approved CPD as a mandatory requirement to retain their RCVS membership.
Join Professional Organisations: Network with other vets and attend conferences.
Consider Further Studies: Explore postgraduate studies like residencies or master's degrees.
Navigating the UK Veterinary Market : Understand the veterinary market in order to take advantage of the best career opportunities available.
Research: Learn about the different practice settings (rural, urban, mixed, equine, etc.) and their demands.
Networking: Connect with other vets and practice managers to gain insights.
Legal and Ethical Considerations :
RCVS Registration: The first step is to register with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).
Professional Code of Conduct: Adhere to the RCVS Code of Professional Conduct.
Data Protection: Understand and comply with data protection laws.
Work-Life Balance :
Prioritise Well-being.
Self-Care: Practice stress management techniques like mindfulness and exercise.
Time Management: Set boundaries and prioritise tasks.
Seek Support: Don't hesitate to talk to colleagues or mental health professionals.
Financial Planning:
Budgeting and tax planning: Create a budget to manage your finances effectively and be aware of the various tax rules wether working as a permanent or locum vet.
Retirement Planning: Consider pension contributions and long-term financial goals.
By following these tips, you can build a successful and fulfilling career as a veterinary surgeon in the UK.
Don’t hesitate to contact us at Mat & Bow Veterinary Recruitment for more information and advice especially if you are a new graduate considering working in the UK.