RCVS welcomes student delegation to London office to discuss veterinary regulation

On Saturday 21 February, RCVS President Tim Parkin FRCVS welcomed representatives from the Association of Veterinary Students (AVS) from across the UK for a day designed to strengthen the relationship between the College and the next generation of veterinary professionals.

The event aimed to give students greater clarity about the College’s dual role as both the regulator of the profession and a Royal College, while also tackling some of the most common myths and misconceptions about our regulatory work.

Throughout the day, the AVS representatives took part in open conversations covering topics that matter most to students and new graduates, including extra-mural studies (EMS) placements, the Veterinary Graduate Development Programme (VetGDP), and the support currently available to students and new graduates. 

We also shared updates on key areas shaping the future of the sector, such as legislative reform, the ongoing Competition & Markets Authority investigation, and our wider work to ensure the profession is equipped for long-term success.

The response from students was overwhelmingly positive. Many shared how valuable it was to hear directly from the College about the future of their profession, as well as to gain a clearer understanding of how our work underpins high standards, public trust, and support for members of the veterinary community.

This event forms an important part of our broader careers and outreach strategy, which focuses on building meaningful, sustained engagement with students and early‑career professionals. By creating these opportunities for dialogue, we aim to ensure that everyone entering the profession feels informed, supported, and confident as they take their next steps.