Hi! I'm a current first-year at RVC. For the timetable, we usually start at 9 or 10 and finish at 3 or 4. We don't have 9-5s very often. When we do we have a gap in between which is great for studying and catching up on lectures.
In terms of animal handling, I don't know what the other schools do, but we have practicals during reading week usually which is twice a term!
If you have any other questions don't hesitate to PM me.