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BCVA is a major provider of CPD for its members and runs a flagship Congress each autumn. The 2009 Congress attracted a royal visitor in the Princess Royal, keynote international speakers, and 449 delegates.
BCVA is looking to build on this success following a review of CPD provision and members’ needs which was carried out by Noesis Market Intelligence.
This Noesis Market Intelligence research identified that provision of education was the most valued aspect of BCVA membership. Members identified content and local delivery as particularly important. A practical element was particularly valued by those at an early stage of their career. The survey drew particular attention to the need to provide CPD targeted to skill level.
BCVA Education Committee has therefore established a CPD and education structure aimed at four identified levels – undergraduates, new graduates, key skills and advanced. Consideration has been given to the needs of each group and these are outlined below and will be available on the BCVA website.
Stuart Young devised a six module practical course for new graduates in farm practice for BCVA. Financial and logistical support has been provided by Pfizer Animal Health. Courses at the new graduate level are aimed at improving practical skills and confidence through hands-on learning opportunities. Two courses have been established in 2010, with six half day modules run in southwest and northwest England. 32 vets signed up to these courses, with training input from academics, practitioners and the VLA. There are plans to run these courses again in each region next Spring, with an additional course in Scotland.
Advanced level courses are being developed with the broad aim of combining academic expert, and local practitioner knowledge and case histories for a more interactive form of learning. The aim is to establish a forum for tackling many of the problems encountered on farm, and how new technologies might provide solutions. 3 pilot one day advanced courses are to be run in Autumn 2010.
BCVA has also reviewed Day One skills and adapted these into a list, available on the BCVA website, for use by vets and undergraduates. It is hoped that this will help in setting targets for EMS and as a checklist for new graduates when trying to find their first job. BCVA is looking into the feasibility of running a Summer school for undergraduates interested in a career in cattle practice.
 
BCVA will continue to deliver key skills education, delivering up to date information from research and practice. “Our objective is to enable practitioners to deliver improved health and welfare on farm both at herd level and to individual cows” remarked Paddy Gordon, Chairman BCVA Education. “We will be delivering key skills CPD courses on Infectious Diseases on 24 June 2010 in Birmingham and a TB Roadshow in Wales in late May. We intend to establish a rolling programme of CPD provision.”
 
BCVA is currently working with the Royal Veterinary College as a partner CPD provider, and anticipates working with other CPD providers to educate and inform members.
 
 
 
 
For further information contact:
 
Paddy Gordon
BCVA
Tel 01452 740816