Linnaeus has introduced a second cohort for its Graduate Development Programme (GDP), enabling graduates to relax and recharge before joining the veterinary group.

In addition to its annual cohort each September, recent graduates can also join the GDP in March. In 2025, there will be 20 places available for the March intake and a further 35 places in September.

Alison Price, Graduate Development Programme Manager at Linnaeus, said:

“Completing vet school is a huge achievement but we appreciate that many graduates want a well-deserved break afterwards. Having a second GDP cohort for March means graduates can travel, volunteer, see friends and family, or simply relax at home before taking the first steps in their veterinary career.

“Linnaeus has continued to grow, so we have more opportunities for graduates but wanted to ensure they stay in small cohorts. Introducing a March intake, rather than expanding our September group, means we can still provide personalised support and a tight-knit peer group for our graduates.”

Millie Holdsworth, Lead Veterinary Surgeon at Park Vet Group, joined the Linnaeus GDP in 2021 after a year in practice and will be a mentor for March’s cohort. She added:

“I remember entering clinical practice as a new graduate very well, and really enjoy taking others through their transition from student to veterinary surgeon. Having completed the GDP myself, it’s a pleasure and a privilege to mentor new cohorts and I look forward to meeting them in March.”

Linnaeus, which is owned by Mars Veterinary Health, updated its graduate programme in 2022 by dividing it into two courses and offering the support of two trained mentors. Its first year GDP, which focuses on core clinical and professional skills, features 12 educational days and is aligned with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons’ VetGDP course.

The GDP is followed by a more flexible second year Early Careers Programme (ECP). The ECP offers up to five days of CPD chosen by the gradate, plus six core educational days focusing on more advanced topics including practical courses in ultrasound and surgery.

Alison added:

“Having listened to the feedback of our graduates, we decided to try something new by introducing the ECP. It has helped graduates to focus on their areas of interest much sooner – promoting greater engagement, skills development and networking with more experienced vets within our group. It’s certainly something we will continue to offer.”

For further information, please visit www.linnaeusgroup.co.uk/careers/graduates-students-and-apprenticeships/gdp-march-intake.
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