Last call for evidence in EMS review

There’s just over a week left for those interested in the future of Extra-Mural Studies to make their views known to an RCVS Working Party set up to review the system.

Opinions are being sought from those involved with organising, providing and receiving EMS – the deadline is 16 February.

Respondents are urged to consider the strengths and weaknesses in the system; problems and possible solutions; and what should be retained and what could change.

Written comments should be sent to Freda Andrews, Head of Education at the RCVS, on [email protected].

This call for input is the first of several phases of activity that will lead to the delivery of a report from the Working Party to the RCVS Education Policy and Specialisation Committee in October 2009.

Following this initial information-gathering stage, some individuals and organisations will be invited to deliver their views in person to the Working Party during April.

"It is over 10 years since the RCVS undertook a major review of EMS, although the requirements and guidelines were revised and updated in 2005 to introduce more flexibility for universities to meet the individual learning needs of their students," says Dr Barry Johnson, RCVS Council member and Chairman of the EMS Working Party.

"In recent years, there have been significant changes in the UK higher education system, in the veterinary curriculum and the organisation of veterinary schools and the time is now right for a more substantial review."