Information for EMS providers

Welcome to the EMS provider guidance video. Whether you're a veterinary practice, farm, or specialist facility, your role in veterinary education is invaluable.

Communication is key! As a placement provider you should assign a team member to liaise with the student before and during the placement to ensure a positive experience for both parties.

Before students arrive, establish clear expectations about their role, responsibilities, and learning objectives. Set realistic expectations regarding working hours and outline what a typical day might look like. This preparation helps students understand your practice's workflow and integrate more effectively into your team.

For Clinical EMS placements, students in their clinical years bring foundational knowledge but need practical application. They can assist with examinations, participate in diagnostic procedures, and observe treatments under supervision. Remember, surgical operations require direct and continuous supervision by a qualified veterinary surgeon.

Consider the learning progression throughout their placement. Start with observation, move to assisted participation, and gradually increase responsibility as students demonstrate competence and confidence.

Regular feedback sessions help students understand their progress and identify areas for improvement. Constructive feedback contributes significantly to their professional development and future career success.

Thank you for considering hosting a veterinary student. Your support is crucial in shaping the future of veterinary medicine.

AHEMS placements provide crucial foundational experiences for veterinary students beginning their educational journey.

Remember, students in AHEMS placements are usually in their first years and may have had less opportunities to experience handling animals. Your role involves introducing them to proper animal handling techniques, basic husbandry practices, and animal behaviour observation.

These placements occur in diverse environments including farms during lambing season, livery stables, kennels, rescue centres, and wildlife facilities. Each setting offers unique learning opportunities and exposure to different species and management systems.

Start with basic safety protocols and gradually introduce hands-on experiences appropriate to the student's comfort level and competence. Demonstrate proper handling techniques and explain the reasoning behind different husbandry practices.

AHEMS providers play a fundamental role in building students' confidence with animals and developing their observational skills. These early experiences often influence career choices and specialisation interests.

Patience and encouragement are essential, as many students are developing their first professional relationships with animals in agricultural or clinical settings.

Your mentorship during these formative experiences contributes significantly to developing well-rounded veterinary professionals who understand animal welfare from multiple perspectives.