Returning to or leaving the veterinary profession
Guidance for veterinary surgeons and nurses on returning to or leaving the profession.
VetGDP: Information for vets rejoining the register
If you're a veterinary surgeon returning to UK practice after five years or more, you'll need to complete our Veterinary Graduate Development Programme (VetGDP).
VetGDP is not only for recent graduates and veterinary surgeons who qualified overseas, but for vets returning to the Register. If you’ve been away from UK practice for five years or more, it will help you rebuild confidence and update your skills. The programme combines one-to-one mentorship with practical, workplace-based learning.
Even if your break was shorter than five years, you can still choose to participate if you'd find the structured support valuable.
On this page
How the programme works
You'll work with a trained VetGDP Adviser who’ll provide peer support throughout your return to practice. Together, you'll select appropriate Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs) - specific skills and competencies to focus on during your development.
The programme is flexible and tailored to your needs. Most participants complete it within one year, though you have up to 18 months if needed.
Your VetGDP Adviser
Your adviser is an experienced vet who has completed specialist training to support returning professionals. They'll meet with you regularly - typically monthly - to provide guidance, feedback and encouragement as you rebuild your confidence.
This one-to-one mentorship is central to VetGDP's success in helping vet surgeons transition smoothly back to independent practice.
E-portfolio and progress tracking
You'll record your development using our e-portfolio system. This helps you track progress against your chosen EPAs and provides structure for discussions with your adviser.
Your portfolio becomes a record of your professional growth and the competencies you've refreshed or developed during the programme.
Exemptions from VetGDP
You might be exempt from VetGDP requirements if you can demonstrate recent, relevant veterinary experience. For example, if you've been practising overseas in a comparable role for at least 18 months.
To be granted an exemption, go to MyRCVS and select the VetGDP statement that best fits your situation.
Each exemption application is assessed individually based on the nature and extent of your recent experience.
Video: Information for vets returning to work after 5+ years
This video explains the VetGDP process in detail, covering enrolment, adviser matching, EPA selection, and programme completion. It provides visual guidance for navigating the e-portfolio system and understanding your responsibilities throughout the programme.
Video transcript
Getting started with VetGDP
Enrolment process
- Secure a VetGDP workplace: Ensure your intended workplace is VetGDP-approved and has trained advisers available. You can find this out via Find a Vet.
- Tell us you’re ready to start, or are exempt: Create or log in to your MyRCVS account and select the VetGDP statement that best fits your situation.
- Add a relationship with your VetGDP practice: This is also done via MyRCVS. Select ‘relationships’ in the main menu and find your practice.
Programme participation
- Meet your adviser: You’ll have regular meetings to discuss the support you need.
- Select your EPAs: Choose appropriate areas of focus based on your development needs.
- Add to your e-portfolio: Document your progress and reflect on your learning regularly.
- Submit your e-portfolio: When you and your adviser decide that you’re ready, submit your e-portfolio for peer review and RCVS approval. Once approved, you will have completed the programme.
Getting help and support
We understand that returning to practice after a break can feel daunting.
If you have any questions about VetGDP enrolment, exemptions, or programme requirements, contact our team. We'll help you understand your specific pathway back to practice and ensure you have everything you need to succeed.
Please contact the VetGDP team at [email protected].