RCVS CertAVP update

In 2002, the Education Strategy Steering Group (ESSG) set up by the RCVS produced a report entitled 'Veterinary education and training: a framework for 2010 and beyond'. Among the ESSG's proposals was the establishment of modular RCVS certificates that would provide a more accessible framework to encourage postgraduate education in practice than the old style of qualification. The ESSG also stated that 'achievement of a certificate, or working towards certificate modules, should become the norm for new practitioners'. Examinations for the old certificate are now being wound down. With the first group of candidates having received the new RCVS certificates of advanced veterinary practice (CertAVP) in 2010, and with many more registered for around 4000 individual modules spanning a wide range of different subjects, Bradley Viner reviews the status of the new qualification and opportunities for further development.