It was a love for animals, rather than the growing demand for animal attendants and veterinary nurses, that encouraged TAFE NSW students to broaden their skills caring for all things great and small. 

The importance of a skilled animal care and management industry was highlighted by the 2019-2020 bushfires and COVID-19. It could not be a better time for the students to be considering a career in the animal care industry with Australia’s pet population, 29 million, is now higher than its human populationi. 

TAFE NSW Animal Care and Management Head Teacher, Sherryn Page said whether you’re looking to start your career or broaden your skills to get the job you want, TAFE NSW offers a variety of courses that will equip students with the job-ready skills to be able to work in a variety of animal care fields. 

“Students will gain knowledge and experience of what it is like to work as a nurse in a veterinary hospital or as an animal care attendant in a variety of facilities, such as boarding kennels and catteries, pet shops, grooming parlors, zoo’s, marine and wildlife parks” 

Self-confessed animal lover, 21-year-old Kayla McGilvery, was able to secure work at as a full-time vet nurse at the Maudsland Veterinary Surgery after completing a Certificate II in Animal Studies and a Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing at TAFE NSW Wollongbar. 

“I’ve always had a passion for animals and have learnt how to work with them and communicate better with clients by studying the courses,” Ms McGilvery said. 

“I really enjoyed the flexibility of the courses and only having to attend classes one or two days per week. The teachers were so supportive and really encouraged me to keep going with my studies.” 

Byron Bay resident, Hayley Carbery, is completing a Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing at TAFE NSW Wollongbar and has already secured employed at MyVet Byron Bay. 

“I’ve had a passion for animals for years and now I feel I’ve found my niche. On-the-job, practical training is a major part of my work and my TAFE NSW study meshes in well with that.” 

“I encourage anyone who is interested in the animal care industry to speak to someone at TAFE NSW about your goals. The only failure is not having a go or striving to do your best.” 

For more information on animal care and services course phone 13 16 01 or visit www.tafensw.edu.au. 

Media contact: Sarah Lievore, Communications Specialist, sarah.lievore1@tafensw.edu.au, 02 9217 4220.