At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our caring team as a Veterinary Surgeon, providing excellent care to small animals.
- Company: Highgate Vets is a friendly practice in Kendal, near the stunning Lake District.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, competitive salary, and generous leave, plus perks like private medical insurance.
- Other info: We value diversity and are open to candidates from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team focused on learning and improving patient care.
- Qualifications: Qualified Veterinary Surgeons with a passion for animal care are welcome to apply.
The predicted salary is between 39000 - 65000 £ per year.
Are you looking for a practice where you can enjoy clinical freedom, feel genuinely supported by your colleagues and achieve an excellent work-life balance?
Highgate Vets, part of inspiring vet care, is looking for an enthusiastic Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon to join our friendly, experienced six-vet team. Whether you're an experienced vet or looking to continue developing your skills, this role can be tailored to suit you. You'll be supported by a knowledgeable and collaborative team who are passionate about delivering exceptional patient care and outstanding client service.
At inspiring vet care, our people are at the heart of everything we do. As the UK’s number one vet care provider, we're trusted with the care of over 2 million animals, delivering our purpose of healthier animals and happier owners.
About Highgate Vets
Highgate Vets is a first‑opinion small animal practice based in Kendal, on the southern edge of the beautiful Lake District. We operate across two sites, with our main surgery managing medical and surgical cases and our branch practice focusing on preventative healthcare. Our clinical team rotates between both sites, giving you a varied caseload and exposure to all aspects of first‑opinion practice.
We're proud of our supportive, close‑knit culture where everyone enjoys helping each other develop. Our experienced team encourages clinical discussion, shared learning and pursuing individual interests, creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
Our Team
- 6 Veterinary Surgeons
- 6 Registered Veterinary Nurses
- 2 Student Veterinary Nurses
- 1 Veterinary Care Assistant
- 6 Receptionists
- 1 Practice Director
Our team is everything!
We're looking for someone who enjoys all aspects of first‑opinion practice and wants to become part of a team that genuinely enjoys working together. Whether you have a particular clinical interest or simply want to become a confident, well‑rounded GP vet, you'll find the support and encouragement to achieve your goals.
Practice Highlights
- IDEXX in‑house laboratory
- Modern ultrasound
- Digital radiography, including dental X‑ray
- Multiparameter monitors
- Infusion pumps
- RCVS Practice Standards accreditation
- RVN Training Practice status
- Cat Friendly accreditation
- Host practice for Pet Blood Bank UK sessions
How You’ll Make a Difference
As a Veterinary Surgeon, you’ll work collaboratively with the wider practice team to deliver a high standard of patient and client care across a varied and rewarding caseload.
You’ll continue to develop your clinical skills and interests while sharing your knowledge and experience with colleagues, contributing positively to the clinical culture of the practice. You’ll be an integral member of the clinical team, delivering excellent care and supporting the ongoing development of those around you.
Key Responsibilities
- Full‑time position working a four‑day week
- 1 in 6 Saturday mornings
- No out‑of‑hours or on‑call commitments
- We recognise that flexibility matters and happy to consider part‑time applications
- Our standard working day runs from 8:00 am to between 6:00-7:00 pm, depending on the rota.
You Might Be a Great Fit If...
You are a confident and motivated veterinary surgeon who enjoys working as part of a team and is committed to delivering high‑quality patient and client care. You’ll bring:
- A Veterinary degree and registration (or eligibility to register) with the RCVS
- Experience working in clinical practice with growing confidence in routine medical and surgical cases
- Strong communication skills and the ability to build effective relationships with clients and colleagues
- A proactive approach to learning, with openness to feedback and development
- Professionalism, reliability, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- A passion for delivering excellent patient and client care
How We’ll Support You
At inspiring vet care, we’re committed to supporting your ongoing development and wellbeing. When you join us, you’ll benefit from:
- Clear career pathways with progression opportunities across primary care, referral, leadership, and specialist roles
- Funded learning and development including CPD allowance and access to IVC academy training centres & role‑relevant courses
- £1,250 annual Care Fund for every vet
- Access to mentors, regional clinical coaches, and peer networks
- Support to develop clinical interests and expand your capabilities
- A collaborative, values‑led culture focused on care, community, and continuous improvement
What We Offer Our Team
- 6.6 weeks’ holiday including bank holidays
- Private medical insurance
- Enhanced family leave and pay across maternity, paternity, adoption and surrogacy
- BVA membership, VDS cover & RCVS fees
- Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes (eligibility applies)
- Retail discounts and cashback offers
- Reduced‑cost veterinary care for your own pets
We’re committed to supporting our people through career development opportunities, wellbeing initiatives and access to world‑class learning resources. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, inspiring vet care offers the support, opportunity and community to help you grow.
Up to £65,000 pa DOE
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Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal in Kendal employer: Highgate Vets
Highgate Vets in Kendal is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment for Small Animal Veterinary Surgeons. With a focus on work-life balance, including a four-day week and no on-call duties, employees benefit from clinical freedom and opportunities for professional development, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding veterinary work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal in Kendal
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Highgate Vets and their approach to veterinary care. Understanding their focus on preventative medicine and the supportive team culture will help you align your values with theirs during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your enthusiasm for teamwork and client experience in any conversations. Since they value a caring and dedicated team, showcasing your ability to work collaboratively and provide excellent client service will make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Be prepared to discuss your specific areas of interest within veterinary practice. Highgate Vets encourages team members to expand their expertise, so showing your passion for continuous learning and development can be a great advantage.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider your work-life balance needs and be ready to discuss flexible working arrangements. Since they are open to tailoring the role to fit individual needs, being upfront about your preferences can help create a positive dialogue.
We think you need these skills to ace Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal in Kendal
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in veterinary practice, particularly with small animals. Emphasise any specific skills or qualifications that align with the job description, such as preventative medicine or experience in a team environment.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the practice. Mention why you are drawn to Highgate Vets and how your values align with their commitment to patient care and team culture.
Highlight Work-Life Balance Preferences:Since the role offers flexible working arrangements, be clear about your availability and preferences in your application. This shows that you value work-life balance and are keen to find a suitable arrangement.
Showcase Continuous Learning:Mention any ongoing professional development or training you have undertaken. Highlight your willingness to learn and grow within the practice, especially in areas that interest you, as this aligns with their focus on nurturing talent.
How to prepare for a job interview at Highgate Vets
✨Show Your Passion for Animal Care
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with animals and providing high-quality care. Share specific experiences that highlight your dedication to animal welfare and client satisfaction.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since the role is part of a tight-knit team, emphasise your ability to work collaboratively. Discuss past experiences where you contributed to a team environment and how you support your colleagues.
✨Highlight Your Flexibility
Given the part-time nature of the role, be prepared to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt to the practice's needs. Mention any previous experience with flexible working arrangements.
✨Prepare Questions About Development Opportunities
Show your interest in professional growth by preparing thoughtful questions about the CPD allowance and learning opportunities available. This demonstrates your commitment to continuous improvement in your veterinary skills.
