GOTAFE veterinary students thrive with hands on training
Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing (ACM40418) students are getting more hands-on experience with animals, thanks to a continued partnership between GOTAFE and Dr Paws Veterinary Clinic in Wangaratta.
Students recently completed their surgical practical assessments at the local clinic, gaining hands-on insights into aspects of veterinary nursing including imaging, surgery preparation, medical and surgical nursing routines and clinical pathology.
Certificate IV Veterinary Nursing student Lauren Carney said the surgical practical assessments have given her a boost of confidence, ensuring she feels prepared for one day getting a job in a clinic.
“Completing work placement at Dr Paws gives me the chance to gain the skills and confidence to put into place when I get a job in a clinic,” she said.
“I love being able to help make a difference in the animals’ lives.”
During their studies, students undertake 240 hours of work placement to put their knowledge into practice.
Dr Paws has been offering placements for GOTAFE students for many years, supporting local students in their education journeys and helping address the skills shortage in the region.
GOTAFE Animal Science Trainer Amy Campion said learning in a vet clinic provides students opportunities to apply their skills in real-life situations.
“Dr Paws provides a much more realistic experience for the students as they are dealing with real clients, real patients and a real clinical setting,” she said.
“Our students will be more job-ready upon completion of their course, having the practical experience under their belt.”
GOTAFE works closely with local businesses and industries to ensure students graduate with skills which meets industry needs.
“Some of the main industry challenges include long hours, mental stress, staff shortages and grieving clients,” Amy explained.
"We cover these challenges with students and discuss appropriate methods to taking care of themselves. They will have the hands-on experience as well as the theory behind them, making them great candidates for potential employers."
Amy Campion, Animal Sciences Trainer - GOTAFE
Dr Paws Nurse Michelle Roche said there were important skills being learned by the students during their time at Dr Paws.
“The students are learning the basics of vet care while they are here along with teamwork, being able to work in a high-pressure environment and the ability to handle the different types of animals with confidence.”
“Currently, an issue within the animal care industry is staff shortages, so it is important to know that there are people out there that still want to enter this field.”
“It really is a rewarding industry.
“Seeing a sick animal come in and stay with it until it gets better is a great feeling.”
Got a passion for animals?
To address the significant skills shortages in the industry, the Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing (ACM40418) is available to eligible students under the Victorian Government’s free TAFE scheme.