In early 2025, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) will launch its groundbreaking RCVS EMS (extra-mural studies) National Booking Database. The database, which has been designed to streamline the process of securing EMS placements for veterinary students and providers across the UK, has also received industry backing from the Society of Practising Veterinary Surgeons (SPVS). Both organisations are now calling on veterinary practices and workplaces to sign up.
The database, which is free to join and use for providers, students and vet schools, was created to improve the accessibility and overall experience of booking EMS placements. It will help students and providers align their expectations before the placement, to help ensure a mutually beneficial experience for both parties.
On the platform, current and prospective providers will be able to feature their placements and showcase key details such as placement type, location, expected caseload/type, professional learning opportunities and practical aspects that students will look for such as transport links, accommodation and specific dates / availability. Students will then be able to search and filter for placements based on their specific requirements, making it much easier to find a suitably matched provider. The platform will also allow students to communicate directly with providers and ask any questions they may have. UK vet schools will also have access to be able to approve placements, streamlining the process.
RCVS Director of Education, Dr Linda Prescott-Clements, said: “We have received feedback from students and new graduates that EMS is a hugely valuable part of their undergraduate training, but that finding EMS placements which match both their needs, and the needs of the providers, can be challenging. This is why we have been working hard to create this new database, which is free to access and designed to simplify and streamline the process for everyone involved.
“By providing EMS placements, you’ll play a vital role in shaping the future of the veterinary profession. Hosting passionate, knowledgeable students not only enhances their educational experience and readiness for working life after graduation, but also brings fresh insights and energy to your practice. Additionally, you’ll build relationships with future veterinary talent, some of whom may return to work with your team after graduation. So, if you are not already a provider, we encourage you to consider the value of participating in EMS.”
Linda added: “Our goal is to establish this database as a valuable central resource for EMS placements for vet students, providers and vet schools, and make sure that all parties get as much as they can out of the EMS experience as possible.”
Andrew Parker the SPVS EMS Group Lead and SPVS Past President added: “The system is designed to streamline the process of arranging EMS placements for veterinary students and veterinary practices, fostering a more efficient and positive experience. The database aligns with SPVS’ goal of cultivating resilience in veterinary graduates by enhancing their practical learning opportunities, which can contribute to their long-term enjoyment and success in clinical practice.”
If you are an existing placement provider and would like to join the RCVS National EMS Booking Database or are keen to learn more about the database and becoming an EMS placement provider, please get in touch with us at ems@rcvs.org.uk. More information for providers, students and vet schools on EMS is also available on the RCVS website.
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