New Zealand Certificate in Animal Technology (Level 5) with strands in Veterinary Nursing Assistant
Allied Health
A course by
Wintec
This one-year full-time certificate prepares students for work as a veterinary nursing assistant, developing skills in animal care, handling, and basic veterinary nursing under supervision.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Hamilton Rotokauri Campus, Hamilton
It will take a total of 1 year
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Provide veterinary nursing assistance
Assist veterinarians and veterinary nurses in a clinical setting, performing delegated tasks and supporting patient care.
Care for and handle companion animals
Safely manage, handle, and care for a range of commonly kept companion animals.
Work placement and clinical exposure
Complete 240 hours of practical work experience in veterinary clinics and related businesses, gaining real-world skills.
What You're Signing Up For
The New Zealand Certificate in Animal Technology (Level 5) with strands in Veterinary Nursing Assistant is designed for those with previous animal handling experience aiming to work in veterinary clinics or related animal care fields. The programme covers the care, management, and nursing of companion animals, includes 240 hours of work experience, and provides hands-on opportunities in a purpose-built teaching facility. Graduates will be equipped to support veterinarians and veterinary nurses and may progress to diploma-level studies.
Course Content
- Animal Anatomy and Physiology
- Animal Husbandry
- Introduction to Animal Behaviour and Handling
- Introduction to Professional Practice
- Applied Animal Behaviour and Handling
- Introduction to Patient Management
- Introduction to Anaesthesia and Theatre Practice
- Diagnostic Techniques
- 240 hours of supervised work experience
What you need to know first
60 credits at NCEA Level 2, including 12 literacy credits at NCEA level 2, 12 numeracy credits at NCEA level 1, and 12 credits in a science subject at NCEA level 1; or recognised equivalent.
Completed a relevant course at NZ qualification level 3; or recognised equivalent.
Demonstrated previous experience working with animals (e.g., three or more days observing in a veterinary clinic or equivalent).
Aptitude for working with the public, demonstrated by a reference from an employer or teacher.
Physically able to perform practical animal handling and nursing demonstrations.
Police check and health declaration required prior to starting.
IELTS 6.0 (no band lower than 5.5), or equivalent, for non-native English speakers.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Animal Care
Veterinary Services
Health Care
Future employment opportunities might be
Veterinary nursing assistant in veterinary clinics
Animal care assistant in animal health-related businesses
Laboratory animal assistant
Progression towards qualified veterinary nurse
Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer
Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details