Graduate Veterinary Surgeon – Small Animal

About the Role

This is your chance to step into practice with genuine support and no solo pressure. You’ll be joining Westmorland Veterinary Group as part of the IVC Evidensia Graduate Academy—a structured programme designed specifically to help newly qualified vets thrive. Based in Kendal, nestled between the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales, you’ll work a manageable four-day week with Saturday and Sunday morning rotas shared across the team. Crucially, there are no out-of-hours shifts, giving you proper work-life balance from day one.

You’ll work across two locations—the main Kendal surgery and the Kirkby Lonsdale practice—gaining exposure to varied small animal cases in a well-equipped environment. The team includes 10 vets, 9 nurses, and 2 veterinary care assistants, creating a collaborative atmosphere where learning is encouraged and questions are welcomed.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver primary small animal care including consultations, diagnostics, and routine and advanced surgical procedures
• Build clinical confidence under the guidance of an allocated GDP advisor with weekly progress meetings
• Participate in the shared weekend rota (Saturday and Sunday mornings only)
• Utilise the practice’s modern equipment: digital X-ray, ultrasound, endoscopy, dental equipment, and AI microscope
• Engage with the IVC Evidensia Graduate Academy blended learning programme tailored to your career goals
• Work collaboratively with the nursing team and wider practice staff on patient care

Requirements

• Recently qualified or newly graduated veterinary surgeon (RCVS registered)
• Enthusiasm for small animal practice and a commitment to continuous learning
• Willingness to work flexibly across two practice sites
• Professional approach to patient care and client communication

Benefits

• Salary & Progression: Starting salary of £36,000 per annum with salary increase in year 2; no financial tie-in
• Work-Life Balance: 37.5 hours per week over four days; no out-of-hours shifts; 6.6 weeks holiday plus your birthday off
• Learning & Development: Blended learning programme; dedicated GDP mentor with weekly support meetings; access to CPD and the IVC Evidensia Research Fund
• Wellbeing: £1,250 annual Care Fund; 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme; range of wellbeing initiatives
• Professional Support: Paid RCVS and professional memberships; never working in sole charge
• Additional Benefits: Company pension with IVC contribution; private medical insurance; cycle-to-work and green car schemes; retail discounts and cashback; discounted pet care at IVC practices

About the Practice

Westmorland Veterinary Group operates two established small animal practices in Cumbria—one in Kendal and one in Kirkby Lonsdale. The Kendal surgery is purpose-built with comprehensive diagnostic and surgical facilities including digital imaging, ultrasound, endoscopy, and dental equipment. The practice is part of IVC Evidensia, a major veterinary group committed to clinical excellence and staff development.

The team is experienced in supporting graduate vets through the IVC Evidensia Graduate Academy programme, with two current vets who have themselves completed the scheme. The practice welcomes small animals, exotic pets, and has farm animal experience, providing diverse learning opportunities in a supportive, collaborative environment.