Veterinary Associations

BSAVA launches online resource bank to build practice expertise

vetreportMay 5, 2016

Vets can develop their practices’ professional and business skills including integration of new graduates, with a flexible online resource from the British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA).

Newly qualified vets and their employers will find the BSAVA Professional Development Phase (PDP) Resource Bank particularly useful when it is launched on May 24.

The resource will help the whole practice – from supporting and appraising new graduates, to coaching and mentoring staff teams – all aimed at developing an ethos of reflective learning and continuous professional development (CPD) alongside veterinary expertise.

There will be materials to help staff members understand the organisation, management and economic pressures of practice, their responsibilities as employees, and building strong communication skills across the business.

The BSAVA PDP resource bank provides CPD support matched directly to the RCVS PDP competences, allowing members to pick and choose those most appropriate to their professional development. They include webinars, podcasts, videos, PDFs and web links, with accessible timings from 15 to 90 minutes.

The content is reviewed by committee and there will be ongoing development of new resources – including employer specific resources for practices supporting new graduates.

BSAVA President Susan Dawson said: “This exciting and easily accessible resource puts continuous professional development at the heart of veterinary practice, helping everyone to meet the changing demands of delivering 21^st century veterinary medicine,” she said.

“Whether you’re an employer supporting a newly qualified graduate in your practice, a new or recent graduate starting out, returning to work after a break, or simply wanting to refresh your professional or clinical skills, we believe the support within these pages will be a welcome addition.”

Kate King, BSAVA Education Manager, said: “We understand the many challenges of beginning your first job; everything is new and knowing where to turn for help can be difficult. At university undergraduates are expected to focus on the technical skills and knowledge of veterinary science, rather than areas more focused on the practice business, customer care and team-building, such as so-called ‘soft skills’ like emotional intelligence and strong communication.

“Equally, vets in practice may have to prioritise the effective management of a practice’s workload ahead of taking extra time to help newly qualified vets find their feet.”

For more information visit www.bsava.com