The university’s general board is meeting in January to discuss a proposal to close its veterinary school in 2032. This could mean that the last cohort of undergraduates would join in October.
In a letter to the Vice-chancellor, Professor Deborah Prentice, the NFU urges the council and general board to reconsider, given the school’s strategic role in veterinary education, research and safeguarding animal and human health.
Concerns over vet shortages
It warns the country is already facing severe vet shortages, particularly in farm animal and public sector roles, with remote and island communities the most seriously affected.
Ending the teaching programme would make this situation worse.
The letter says: “Cambridge Veterinary School has a century-long legacy shaping the profession and British agriculture.
“Its closure would undermine efforts to train future farm vets and maintain academic excellence. The university is a valued NFU member and we trust it recognises the critical need for accessible veterinary services and expertise.”
Flagship farm at risk
The NFU says that the proposed closure would affect around 150 staff. It would also jeopardise the university’s flagship farm, which is a hub for sustainable farming and practical training.
“Beyond higher education, the farm supports school-age learners as a LEAF demonstration site, fostering agricultural awareness in consumers,” the letter says.
“Its loss would significantly reduce opportunities for future veterinary professionals and undermine efforts to promote sustainability and public engagement in agriculture.”
The letter has been signed by NFU East Regional Director Dr Zoe Leach, National Livestock Board Chair David Barton and National Dairy Board Chair Paul Tompkins.
They urge the university to maintain the teaching programme to “ensure continued leadership in veterinary science and resilience in animal health systems”.
A website, Save the Vet School, has been launched in support of maintaining the teaching programme.
