2 May 2025
Simulated experiences aim to bridge the gap between education and practical work for those at the beginning of their career
Vet Times
Job Title
Ian Cure.
An innovative training programme aims to equip the next generation of farm vets with skills to help farmers improve livestock health, welfare and productivity amid rising industry demands.
The VetPartners Farm Academy, which offers an on-farm placement opportunity for fourth and final year veterinary students, has opened for applications for places this June.
Launched in 2023 to address the growing need for skilled farm vets, the VetPartners Farm Academy was created to provide more opportunities for future vets to gain hands-on experience.
VetPartners Farm Director Ian Cure said: “By opening up on-farm and simulated farm experiences to students, the academy aims to bridge the gap between veterinary education and practical farm work – ensuring a strong pipeline of talent into the industry.
“Designed by farm vets, for vets of the future, our three-day academy complements university education by providing veterinary students with a structured on-farm experience that builds confidence and prepares them for a career in farm practice.
“By welcoming students into the Farm Academy, we’re helping them develop the practical skills, confidence and knowledge needed to thrive in farm animal practice from day one.
“The academy also offers those students who haven’t had previous farm exposure the chance to try farm vetting for the first time. With the agricultural sector facing increasing pressures, from sustainability targets to animal health challenges, ensuring the next generation of farm vets is well-prepared is more important than ever.”
This year’s academy will take place at a VetPartners practice in Cornwall, from 14 to 16 June. Students will receive training from experienced farm vets, and gain valuable skills in herd health, disease management, and sustainable livestock production.
Significant success in developing and supporting early career vets within the VetPartners group of practices has already been seen. After attending the Farm Academy in 2024, three graduates went on to secure graduate farm vet roles within the group.
One of these graduates, Ed Alston, joined Rosevean Vets in Penzance, Cornwall, from Košice University in Slovakia in 2024.
Explaining how the experience helped prepare him for life as a farm vet, he said: “The academy was excellent, with a good mix of theory and practical work during a packed schedule.
“We had a trip to see alpacas, a sheep farm and a slaughterhouse, so we experienced practical and realistic scenarios.
“The vets running the academy were very experienced and knowledgeable, so we received lots of tips and advice on different techniques and approaches.
“It gave me a great insight into the role and as I wanted to work in a mixed practice close to my home in Cornwall, Rosvean then ticked those boxes.”
The Farm Academy programme in 2025 will offer students:
To find out more about the academy, or to apply for future programmes, send a CV and covering letter to [email protected]
