The RCVS day one competencies

Day One Competencies

The day one competencies are the skills that a veterinary graduate must have on their first day as a qualified vet. They are set by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. You are not expected to know them all, but understanding them is important. Some of the MMI stations will probably be based off the day one competencies.

Core Skills Demonstrated by Day One Competencies

1. Professionalism and Ethics

2. Communication

3. Clinical reasoning

4. Animal handling and welfare

5. Teamwork

6. Personal wellbeing and professional conduct

How MMIs May Test Day One Competences

• Ethical dilemmas tests professionalism, welfare prioritisation and judgement.
Example: Owner refuses treatment.

• Communication tests empathy and support.
Example: Explaining a diagnosis to an owner.

• Teamwork tests how you can collaborate.
Example: Conflict between colleagues.

• Professionalism tests integrity.
Example: Handling harassment.

• Wellbeing tests realistic pressure.
Example: How would you cope with a difficult euthanasia?

How You Can Incorporate Them in Your Answers

Use structured answers
• A logical structure shows organisation.

Show self awareness
• Recognise your limitations.
• Ask for support.

Link to welfare

Show empathy
• Use supportive language.