Through the Alumni and Friends Fund Grant, Veterinary and Bioveterinary Science students have the opportunity to participate in observational anatomy drawing sessions outside of scheduled teaching time.
The classes are run voluntarily by staff members and free to attend, with the funds going towards supplying and replenishing supplies.
The classes give students the opportunity to meet fellow course members and develop their skills in an inclusive and relaxed environment, giving students time away from the demands of daily life and social media.
Students have the option to attend individual or multiple sessions. At a time when students are facing an epidemic of loneliness and the cost of living, these free classes can provide a lifeline for students, boosting wellbeing and providing a free activity away from the routine of University life, as well as a sense of community.
Class organisers Rosie and Fay said: “Thank you so much for your support for our project. This grant will allow us to continue providing these sessions for free, ensuring they are accessible to all our students. We hope to be able to share our students work with you over the next year!”
Recently an exhibition of the artwork was held in the Thompson Yates building, showcasing the work the students had produced.
Bethen, who is in her second year of studying, said: “The classes were so relaxed, it made a welcome change from the stress and pressure I associated with the Veterinary Teaching Suite. It was such a fun way to learn anatomy and you could draw any specimen you wanted. I didn’t think I had any art skills, but as the weeks have gone on I’ve really developed and I’ve learnt a new skill.”
The classes have proven to be helpful for students, with students saying they mentally benefited from the classes and that it changed their perceptions on learning. Dr Fay Penrose, Head of First Year Bioveterinary Science, has been sharing the benefits of the classes with other institutions at conferences, and Dr Rosie MacDiarmid, Senior lecturer in Preclinical Veterinary Science and Clinical Skills, will be discussing the benefits of the classes at the annual VetEd conference.
To find out more about the Student Vet Fund and how you can support students like Bethen, visit our webpage.