The course is designed to give those who have qualified abroad the insight needed to work in the UK veterinary professions.

Online format will allow more people to access information remotely.

An RCVS course that introduces overseas vets and veterinary nurses to working in the UK will now be completely online.

The ‘Introduction to the UK Professions’ is a two-part course run in collaboration with VDS Training to give those who have qualified abroad the insight needed to work in the UK veterinary professions. 

Owing to COVID-19, the course is now online only and features a series of free, pre-recorded talks from representatives at the RCVS, VDS training, BVA, Vetlife and VetAbroad.

Topics covered include the Code of Professional Conduct, how to find the right job for you, how to look after mental health and wellbeing, and recognising cultural differences.

The second part of the course is an optional practical paid-for live communication skills training session, run by VDS training, that explores how to navigate some common pitfalls in client consultations.

Ian Holloway, RCVS director of communications, said: “While we enjoyed running this course in person and meeting veterinary professionals from all over the world, the coronavirus pandemic has also given us the opportunity to look at how we can make this course even more accessible for a greater number of people.

“While there is still a significant live element, albeit online for the time being, the pre-recorded talks enable those veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses to do much of the learning in their own time, without having to take time off work or travel to London for the day, meaning that more people can engage with this crucial information on working in the UK.”

Elly Russell MRCVS, a consultant at VDS Training, added: “Communicating with clients can be one of the most rewarding, but also challenging parts of our jobs as veterinary professionals. Communication problems lead to complaints, increase your stress at work and can impact the care our patients receive. 

“Join VDS training for a highly interactive, online 4-hour workshop. Work in small groups with our experienced facilitators and role players using realistic scenarios to practise and develop your communication skills. Let us help you feel more confident managing common communication challenges in UK practice: improved communication will help you, your clients, and your patients.”

Further information about the course is available at rcvs.org.uk/overseas-cpd