"Our new proposals describe a more risk-based approach to accreditation." - Dr Linda Prescott-Clements.

The RCVS is seeking opinions within the professions on draft new standards and methodology. 

On 16 July 2021, the RCVS launched a six week long consultation on a proposed new set of standards and methodology to be used in the accreditation of UK and international veterinary degrees.

Running until 5pm on Friday, 27 August 2021, the consultation asks for feedback on a new set of accreditation standards. The RCVS will then use to assess the quality of veterinary degree programmes, alongside methodology which will be used to evaluate whether the accreditation standards are being met. 

Chair of the RCVS Education Committee, Dr Sue Paterson, said: “These proposed new standards are the culmination of a lengthy review process starting in September 2019 in which we have looked at international best practice, best practice from other healthcare fields and engaged with stakeholders to conduct a root-and-branch review of how we can better assure the quality of veterinary degrees, and the outcomes for our veterinary students.

“We believe that the new standards provide a new approach to assessing veterinary degrees and have the flexibility to apply across different curriculum and programme delivery models within vet schools, and so play a more significant role in driving quality improvement and educational innovation as well as assurance in the regulatory context.”

Alongside the standards, feedback is also requested on a new methodology which defines how the RCVS will determine if a veterinary degree programme meets the standards. This will include the evidence gathering and review process before an accreditation visitation, the visitation itself, and the post-visitation evaluation process.

The new standards and methodology have been published as separate PDF documents and are available to read alongside the questionnaire at rcvs.org.uk