Volunteer vet and vet nurse &
student placements
Calling vets and vet nurses
Join us for a unique and rewarding experience in the world of wildlife medicine. Volunteering at Vales offers qualified veterinary surgeons and registered veterinary nurses (RVNs) the opportunity to develop their skills in the fast-paced and fascinating field of wildlife treatment and rehabilitation.
As one of the busiest wildlife hospitals in the UK, we care for a wide range of species and conditions – no two days are the same.
Whether you’re looking for a short-term placement or a longer immersive experience, this is a chance to broaden your clinical knowledge, work with diverse cases, and contribute directly to the care and recovery of wild animals.
Accommodation
Limited self-catering accommodation may be available for volunteers, subject to a weekly charge. For further details, please contact info@valewildlife.org.uk
Important information
Veterinary surgeons who qualified outside the UK (with an RCVS-recognised qualification) may practise in the UK for up to 3 months within a 12-month period under visiting registration, provided they are registered in their home country.
For placements exceeding 3 months, full registration with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) is required.
Overseas graduates are only required to complete the Professional Development Phase (PDP) if registering with the RCVS for more than three months.
All volunteer vets and RVNs are expected to work in line with Vales’ Standard Operating Procedures and Practice Guidelines, under the supervision of our veterinary team.
Proof of qualifications and eligibility to practise (including your registration number) must be provided before your placement begins.
Are you a student?
We’re delighted to welcome veterinary students to join us for placements, offering a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in wildlife medicine and rehabilitation.
We offer two types of placements:
Clinical placements, where students work alongside our veterinary surgeons, gaining exposure to diagnosis, treatment, and clinical decision-making
Pre-clinical/Husbandry placements, where students work with our Wildlife Care Assistants, focusing on animal care, feeding, and day-to-day rehabilitation.
You’ll be asked to specify your preferred placement type when completing your application form.
Clinical placement availability
Clinical placements are extremely popular and are typically booked well in advance.
2026: Fully booked
2027: Fully booked
2028 bookings: Opening in early 2027
Please check this page regularly, as any cancellations will be advertised here.
We generally have greater availability for pre-clinical/husbandry placements, as we can accommodate more students at one time.
The costs
Non-residential placements:
There is no fixed charge, but we kindly ask for a suggested £50 per week voluntary contribution to support the work of the charity. (Following changes to Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons guidelines, we removed the mandatory fee to make placements more accessible – however, contributions are greatly appreciated.)
Residential placements:
£150 for the first week
£120 for the second and subsequent weeks
(Includes placement costs)
A 50% non-refundable deposit is required at booking, with the remaining balance due at least one month before your placement
Accommodation
We offer limited on-site, self-catering accommodation.
A chalet-style mobile home (shared with other students), featuring: Kitchen, living area, bathroom (bath and shower), and private garden. Bedding and towels provided (you’re welcome to bring your own)
Please note:
Accommodation is shared. You’ll need to bring your own food.
Alternative local accommodation options are available on request.
Placement details
Minimum age: 17 years
Duration: 1–4 weeks (longer by special arrangement)
Placements are in high demand and often booked 12+ months in advance
Students are expected to work 5 days out of 7, which may include weekend shifts.