Student clinical skills hub

Clinical skills at the School of Veterinary Science are learned from the first week of year 1.

Using our dedicated lab spaces, students in years 1-3 follow a developmental self-directed peer-assisted learning approach supported by troubleshooting and regular practice tests and feedback sessions, to build their manual competence, theoretical knowledge and life-long learning skills.

Our bespoke bank of learning resources provides written and video directions for students to use when developing their skills.

Learning is enhanced using a reflective diary which students use to track their skill development and build their skills as a reflective practitioner.

On clinical rotations in years 4 and 5, students begin to apply these fundamental skills to more complex, species-specific situations, supported by case-based learning in the clinical environment.

Our research shows that students develop teamworking, communication, organisational and reflection skills and gain confidence in themselves as independent learners, as a result of their experience in the clinical skills lab.