Vet students celebrated through new Farm Vet of the Future Award

Royal Bath & West Society have recently announced the launch of the ‘Farm Vet of the Future’ award. The competition is open to UK final year vet students intending on becoming farm vets.

“We’re pleased to introduce this new award, which carries with it the historical prestige of its dairy focused predecessor, as well as professional opportunity for the future,” says James Bardwell, Royal Bath & West council member and chair of the judging panel. “In what is a very challenging industry, progressive committed young people need to be supported. This award does that, and in a broad way across the large animal spectrum.”

Entrants are required to submit a piece of work that demonstrates clinical knowledge and interest (case report, herd health project, elective or dissertation), as well as 300-500 words outlining what they think the role of a farm vet of the future should look like. The winner will receive a £1000 cash prize.

Paddy Gordon, director and farm vet at Shepton Vets, and fellow judge, adds: “The award recognises the next generation of farm vets, while broadening the scope of the award beyond just dairy. We think the award is a good way of offering encouragement to those that take the initiative.”

The large animal veterinary sector is facing challenges with recruitment, explains Mr Gordon. “We need to proactively help students understand the opportunities in large animal medicine, and offer support to those who are dedicated.”

To win the award, applicants will need to demonstrate a good understanding of disease and on-farm health challenges, he says. “Candidates need to show they can digest and interpret all the science and distil it down into clear messages and actions.”