• Course Level:Level 2

    Course Duration:1 Year

    Programme Aims

    This coursewill not be running during 2009-2011.

    This programme is aimed at individuals who wish to enter the veterinary care industry either as an initial career choice, a career change or a stepping stone to the veterinary nursing qualification but are unable to find paid employment within a veterinary practice.
    Back to Top ^

    Entry Requirements

    Entry to the course is by interview - there are no formal qualification requirements. Candidates must be at least 16 years of age and able to prove, upon starting the course, access to work experience (paid or unpaid) within the veterinary industry. Such a placement can include general veterinary practice, specialist or referral practices or veterinary departments within welfare establishments (approval for suitability of a placement should be gained from the Course Tutor).

    This is course is suitable if you are:
    • A school leaver with sufficient GCSEs to enrol as a Student Veterinary Nurse but not yet 17 years old
    • A school leaver of 16 years or above who does not have sufficient GCSEs to enter the Student Veterinary Nursing programme
    • A school leaver unsure of your chosen career
    • An adult learner looking for a career change
    • Lay or reception staff, working in a practice, and wishing to select modules of study relative to your position
    Back to Top ^

    Course Structure

    Attendance is on a day release basis (9am – 6pm on Thursdays) spanning 35 weeks from September to June. NCVCA exams will be undertaken in June. Full qualification can only be achieved on completion of 800 hours of work experience undertaken consecutively to the course.

    Back to Top ^

    What you will study

    • Anatomy, physiology and terminology
    • Animal husbandry and handling
    • Health, hygiene and disease control
    • Introduction to anaesthesia, surgery and radiography
    • Basic pharmacy management and medicine administration
    • Reception skills
    • Health and safety in the veterinary practice
    • Veterinary practice employment issues
    Plus:
    • Key skills (Level 1 / 2 communication and number)
    • Individual tutorial support scheduled throughout the programme
    Back to Top ^

    Assessment

    Successful completion is dependent upon passing on-line assessments (three multiple choice question papers), the achievement of assignments timetabled throughout the programme and fulfilling 800 hours of work experience within the veterinary industry.

    Back to Top ^

    Progression

    Successful candidates may progress to the Student Veterinary Nursing programme at Bicton College.

    Back to Top ^