U-Skills Academy 2 Day New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care

This programme will provide you with the qualification you’ll need to comply with all regulatory requirements and relevant industry codes of practice for animal care, including knowing how to respond to normal and abnormal health and behaviour in animals and being able to assist with the day-to-day care of animals.

Designed for people who want to care for animals in contexts such as pet stores, animal rescue centres, pet groomers, boarding and training facilities and animal recreation businesses, you’ll get a feel for what it’s like to study in the animal care environment, meet experienced tutors, and try out practical skills that real animal carers use every day.

From learning the basics of animal handling and behaviour to understanding how to keep animals healthy, safe, and comfortable, this programme gives you a real‑world peek into the industry.

How to apply

If you're interested in applying for this programme, talk to your careers advisor at school. Application is arranged in partnership with your parents/caregivers and your school. Once you've talked to everyone required, you can use the application form at the top of the page to apply.

Delivered from 9am - 3pm each day.

Tuesday and Thursday, or Tuesday and Friday.

This programme comprises 70 credits including 23 NCEA Credits.

Unit Standard 5180 (Version 7) (Level 3 (6 Credits)

Describe companion animal anatomy, cells, body tissues and systems

Unit Standard 5189 (Version 7) (Level 3) (4 Credits)

Apply health and safety and hazard control when working in an animal facility.

Unit Standard 31501 (Version 3) (Level 3) (5 Credits)

Describe cat feeding, health, and housing, and carry out routine health procedures.

Unit Standard 31502 (Version 3) (Level 3) (5 Credits)

Describe dog feeding, health, and housing, and carry out routine health procedures.

Unit Standard 31504 (Version 2) (Level 3) (3 Credits)

Describe and apply the Animal Welfare Act 1999 to a work role in an animal facility.

For year 12 - 13 secondary school learners (NZ Citizens, permanent residents or learners with an applicable visa allowing them to be enrolled in a secondary school), aged 16 years or over.

Applications are to be received from participating schools.

Successful completion of the UCOL Academy 2 Day New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care programme is the first step in a journey. Equipped with new skills and a taste for the industry, you will know what you need to do to pursue a career in Veterinary Science & Animal Technology.

If this is for you, you can undertake further tertiary studies in:

• New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing Level 6

Career Pathways

• Vet Nursing

• Animal Care

• Pet Boarding

• Agriculture

This programme is part of a suite of Academy 2 Day programmes offered by UCOL to secondary learners seeking to explore their career options while still in school. Gain practical experience and 27 NCEA Credits.

How to apply

If you're interested in applying for the UCOL Academy 2 Day New Zealand Certificate in Animal Care programme, talk to your careers advisor at school. Application is arranged in partnership with your parents/caregivers and your school.

Cost

Fees-free when criteria are met.

Transport

Transport assistance is available if you meet the criteria.

Attendance expectations

Learners must maintain appropriate attendance at both secondary school and Academy to remain enrolled in the Academy Programme.