XLVets
Small Animal Vet opportunity, Oakhill Veterinary Centre, Preston, Lancashire

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An exciting opportunity has arisen for a small animal veterinary surgeon to join our proudly independent practice in Preston, Lancashire.
Full or part time | No out-of-hours | 1 in 16 weekend rota
We are a flexible employer, open to discussing working patterns which fit your needs.
What You Can Expect From The Role
A diverse and rewarding role where you’ll see a great mix of both routine and emergency medical and surgical cases, meaning no two days are the same. We can tailor the role around you. There is the possibility for consult-only roles, dedicated operating days and structured development, including one-to-one surgical guidance as required and freedom to further individual interests. Within our team we have several certificate holders and vets experienced in surgery, dermatology, ultrasonography, and medicine.
- Fantastic team of experienced vets and fully qualified RVNs.
- As an independent practice you have the freedom to work up cases the way you want.
- All branches fully equipped with digital X-ray, ultrasound and lab, plus access to dental X-ray and endoscope.
- All the directors are vets working within the team, as such they continually invest in the practice for the benefit of patients and staff.
- Regular clinical meetings with CPD, case discussion, and the opportunity for your ideas to be heard.
We want all our team members to feel motivated and satisfied at work. That’s why we’re committed to creating a supportive environment where everyone can thrive, with initiatives focused on employee wellbeing and development.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Vet Stephanie Heys says, “The small animal team have strong and diverse skill-sets, that allow cases to be worked up and treated to a very high standard in-house.”
A Little About What’s On Offer
- Competitive salary based on experience, with a structured annual review and career progression opportunities.
- No OOH – we work in partnership with Vets Now for our out of hours service. Weekend rota is equally shared, 2-in-15 (weekend 1 = Sat day and Sun morn only and weekend 2 = Sat day only).
- Five weeks paid holiday (pro rata for part time staff) plus bank holidays or day off in lieu.
- RCVS membership fees paid.
- VDS cover and another professional membership of your choice paid.
- Family-friendly policies, including maternity/paternity/adoption/shared parental and surrogacy pay.
- Cycle to Work scheme.
- Active and varied health and wellbeing programme for all, with regular team building and whole practice social events throughout the year.
Learning and Development Opportunities
We are proud to be an independent and enthusiastic practice who actively encourage and support further education, including to certificate level. As part of an established team, you will be offered support and mentorship by experienced clinicians.
- Working closely with our team of vets who have diverse skill sets and knowledge, allowing you to develop in any direction.
- Structured mentoring program.
- All branches fully equipped with diagnostics, imaging and operating suites.
- Paid CPD to certificate level if required.
- RCVS Approved Graduate Development Practice – we work closely with the new veterinary school at UCLan.


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“I love working at Oakhill – the team are so supportive and welcoming. This has given me the opportunity to develop my confidence and skills. I feel that I have progressed so much in the two years I have been here.” Vet Maddy Walsh
More About Us
Oakhill Veterinary Centre is a three-branch RCVS accredited practice offering a client-focused service to pets in and around Preston. We have a genuinely amazing team and wonderful clients. Our talented team is made up of 18 veterinary surgeons, 18 registered veterinary nurses (RVNs) and 20 support staff.
Have a look on our website, Facebook and Google reviews to get an idea about who we are and what we are all about!
Interested? Email Judith to arrange for an informal chat.
SOUNDS GOOD? APPLY TODAY!
Ideally, we’re looking for someone with 2-3 years’ experience, but whatever your experience, if you’re enthusiastic, reliable and get the job done, we’d love to hear from you!
We are a flexible employer, open to discussing working days which give you a work-life balance and welcome applications from candidates looking for full time or part time work.
Email your CV and covering letter to Judith Lee by submitting the application form.
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