Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs)
Discover the 16 core activities that make up the Vet GDP programme. Learn how EPAs help you build practical skills, track progress, and demonstrate readiness for independent practice.
VetGDP: Information for graduates
Starting your veterinary career with professional guidance sets the foundation for long-term success. The Veterinary Graduate Development Programme (VetGDP) provides structured, one-to-one mentorship through qualified advisers in approved workplaces, helping you build confidence and clinical skills during your crucial first professional role.
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The Vet Graduate Development Programme (Vet GDP) is designed to give you a strong start to your veterinary career. Working alongside a qualified adviser in an approved workplace, you'll build your skills and confidence through structured mentorship and tailored professional development.
Who can offer the VetGDP?
Only approved practices and workplaces can offer the VetGDP. To qualify, they must have at least one trained VetGDP Adviser and submit the required declarations to the RCVS.
The approved workplace might be a traditional mixed practice, a specialist referral centre, or even a government department. Whatever the setting, they'll need RCVS approval to provide your VetGDP experience.
How to identify a VetGDP-approved practice or workplace
Use our Find a Vet tool to locate approved practices in your area. This online directory shows which workplaces can offer the VetGDP, making your job search easier.
If you're already in a role or have a workplace in mind, check they have the necessary approval before starting your VetGDP journey.
Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs)
EPAs form the framework of the VetGDP. These practical tasks are linked to your role and measure your ability to carry out specific professional activities independently and competently.
You and your VetGDP Adviser will select EPAs that match your role and career goals. For example, if you're working in a mixed practice, you might focus on clinical consultations and diagnostic procedures. Government roles might emphasise different competencies like policy development or public health activities.
This flexible framework ensures your VetGDP experience is tailored to your specific workplace and professional development needs.
The role of the VetGDP Adviser
Your VetGDP Adviser is your professional mentor throughout the programme. They'll provide one-to-one guidance, regular feedback, and support as you develop your skills.
All advisers must have been on the RCVS Register for at least three years and complete specialised training. They also refresh their skills every five years to ensure you’re receiving the best possible guidance.
You'll meet regularly with your adviser to discuss progress, address challenges, and plan your professional development. This structured mentorship is designed to boost your confidence and competence in your new career.
Enrolling in the VetGDP
Once you start a new role in an approved workplace, you must notify us immediately. The VetGDP typically takes 12 to 18 months to complete, depending on your progress and work setting.
You'll access your e-portfolio through your 1CPD account, using your RCVS My Account credentials. This digital platform tracks your progress and stores evidence of your developing competencies.
Your journey is led by you. Meaning you control the pace and focus areas, while receiving professional guidance from your adviser.
How the VetGDP counts towards continuing professional development (CPD)
The VetGDP contributes 52.5 hours towards your CPD requirements, covering your first 18 months as a qualified veterinary surgeon. This structured learning counts towards your professional development obligations while building essential skills.
This integration ensures your early career development aligns with long-term CPD commitments and your ongoing professional learning.
Video: VetGDP information for graduates
Watch our short video for an overview of the VetGDP and what it means for you as a new graduate.
Video transcript
Your essential VetGDP checklist
- Find an approved practice or workplace using our online tool
- Confirm your workplace has a trained VetGDP Adviser
- Notify the RCVS immediately when you start your new role
- Access your e-portfolio through your 1CPD account
- Select appropriate EPAs for your role and career goals
- Schedule regular meetings with your VetGDP Adviser to review progress
- Complete the free Graduate Induction course
- Build evidence of competency in your chosen EPAs
- Track your 52.5 hours of CPD
- Request professional sign-off when ready
- Contact [email protected] with any questions
VetGDP Graduate Induction: free online course
Start your VetGDP journey with our free one-hour Graduate Induction course, available through the RCVS Academy. This online resource introduces the VetGDP, explains the EPA framework, and helps you understand what to expect.
The course is designed to give you confidence before you begin, ensuring you're prepared to make the most of your VetGDP experience from day one.
For general queries or extension requests, contact us at [email protected].