Training to be a vet nurse

Vet Nurse plus runs an education program designed to produce high quality Veterinary nurses that will be much sought after by New Zealand Veterinary clinics. Vet Nurse plus students are taught for the industry, by the industry. A highly relevant course, delivered by very capable and experienced tutors, based in the environment of very professional veterinary clinics. A boutique course, in which a small group of carefully selected students, can learn and grow, in a personal, enriching and high quality environment, all the skills needed to graduate and add value to New Zealand Veterinary practices.

Why choose Vet Nurse plus?

In 2010 85% of our 2009 graduates gained employment as veterinary nurses and 65% of our 2010 class were employed before May 2011.

Why is this?

The one year course is a level 5 New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) approved and accredited and is taught by tutors who want their students to succeed by offering one on one support and encouragement. Practical application is a large part of the teaching programme (31%) with two days a week being spent in an independent veterinary clinic as part of the course. We offer;

  • Team and family environment.
  • Boutique size classes.
  • Strong emphasis on practical & life skills.
  • Have fun while you learn.
  • Level 5 NZQA approved and accredited course.

Vet Nurse plus was established in 2005 following the 2004 NZ Veterinary Nursing Human Resources Development Survey, sponsored by the Veterinary profession, which identified concerns with the relevance of current teaching for Veterinary practices. Vet Nurse plus addressed the concerns raised and when writing the course, focused on a strong practical approach, that has enabled us to train quality nurses who are sought by the veterinary profession.  

Large animal, including cattle and equine, practical experiences are all included in the course. An emphasis on practical experience outside the classroom in a variety of settings places this course at a level above all others available. Small animal, large animal and equine will be covered in the curriculum.

A unique mix of theory and practical will be offered to ensure the best grounding of experience is provided to our students. Veterinarians and Industry, suggested that they would like more involvement in the end result of vet nurse qualification.

Vet Nurse plus is an NZQA accredited Private Training Enterprise operating out of two education centres. One is based at 128 Great South Road in South Auckland while the other is on the North Shore at 38 Unit D, William Pickering Drive in Albany. The course is also approved by the New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA) which acknowledges Vet Nurse plus graduates as qualified to work in NZVA ‘Best Practice’ clinics.

Other business fields like marketing and computer skills are also taught throughout the year. A strong emphasis on using life skills to strengthen the applicants self confidence in the field of modern day vet nursing is also covered.

Contact us regarding student loans and fees.

Career Opportunities

Veterinary nursing graduates have found work in veterinary clinics in New Zealand, UK, Australia and Canada. They have also worked in conservation areas for example the bear rehabilitation compounds in Thailand and China. They have found work with guide dogs, customs and MAF. Some have gone on to be sales representatives for pharmaceutical, distribution and pet food companies.

Others now work at the zoo, the SPCA, dog control and similar places. Others are now furthering veterinary nursing by teaching and with representation on various animal related boards.

So if you love working with animals this programme could open up doors into a huge array of different career areas - both in New Zealand and overseas.

Vet Nurse plus Extra Activities FOR OUR STUDENTS AND GRADUATES

Continuing Education full-day seminars for veterinary nurses

Seminars are ran for qualified and unqualified veterinary nurse students currently in practice. Students attending the Vet Nurse plus course will have the opportunity to attend.

Further Training Options

Further training for qualified veterinary nurses is available. Please click on the button 'Already a veterinary nurse'.

"We aim to provide the veterinary industry with the best vet nurse that can add value to veterinary service"
Steve Merchant - Director

"We want to see our students be at the top end of scholars. We intend to have Vet employers coming to us for our students"
David Barrowman - Director

Testimonials

"This course is really good. It is full on and hard work, but it is worth it. Practical experience in the clinics is a real insight."
Svetlana

"This course will truly give you the skills and motivation to become a veterinary nurse!"
Ves

"I highly recommend Vet Nurse plus to anybody who wants a full understanding of veterinary nursing."
Catherine

"The practical side helped me understand the theory, but also know the role of a real veterinary nurse. The lecturers are very funny and relate well to their students."
Lucy

"The course is fantastic! The practical clinics make you able to apply your theoretical knowledge quickly - sometimes the next day!"
Lisa

"I'm so pleased I've done this! It's the best thing I've ever done! Working in a clinic helps me put theory to its use and I understand it way more! Oh, and the tutors are awesome! The best!"
Kerryn

"The course is awesome. Making learning easier, with 'hands on' experience, while working in different practices."
S.W.

"The hands-on approach with Vet Nurse plus is a wonderful way to learn. The tutors have so much knowledge to share with the students. It was the best decision I made training with Vet Nurse plus."
Pauline.

"Anyone wanting to train as a vet nurse, this course is a must.  The small class numbers, great lecturers ready to help at any time, the days out (especially the zoo) make the course well worth well and the hands on in clinics certainly helps make sense of the theory"

Raewyn 

"I completed the Vet Nurse Plus Veterinary Nursing course in 2008.  The course was well structured and professionally run.  My tutors were Krista and Rae and they were fantastic at teaching both the practical and theory aspects of the course and were both very approachable.  The amount of practical experience gained in the clinics was invaluable. I was regularly monitoring animals under anaesthetic, assisting in x-rays and I even got to assist the Veterinary surgeon in a pinnectomy (removal of a cat's ear).  Of course there was a lot to learn, many practical tasks to complete and four major case studies to research and write up so a lot of hard work was required but Rae, Krista and the clinic staff were all there to answer my questions and provide support along the way.  The small class size was great because you got to know everyone and it meant it was easier for the tutors to focus on the areas of the course that needed further explanation or reinforcement.  I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the Vet Nurse Plus course to anyone wanting to pursue a career as a Veterinary Nurse, it is the best start you could get."
Desiree 2008
 

"Since attending this level 5 Veterinary Nursing course, I have gained amazing knowledge both in class and attending my practical hands on work experience in various clinics.  The high standard of time and effort put into the running of classes has enabled me to go into clinics and feel that I "can do" this!!  Whilst attending the clinics I have found staff members to be so encourageable and willing to let me put my skills I have learnt in class into practice. The staff members work with you and ensure that you are able to achieve these. I would highly recommend this course to anyone.  It is a fun journey to take, making new friends and achieving personal satisfaction and taking care of animals especially when they are in need of caring Vet Nurses passionate about their wellbeing!!"

Jo 2009

"I would recommend to anyone wanting to work with animals but scared of the big uni classes.  With different clinics giving you hands on experience it gives you the ability to train with real animals.  The tutors are patient and helpful with great experience and help when required."

Carol 2009

 "Vet Nurse Plus is great, the practical component helps you with your confidence and gives you a greater understanding of the topics you are studying. To be able to put what you are learning into practice with such supporting and encouraging staff is just awesome! I loved the small classes because you get to have open discussions and one on one time with your lecturer. You make lots of great friends and go on many adventures, overcome fears and just have a great time! I’m glad I went through Vet Nurse Plus and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anyone else" 

Christina 2009

“I graduated from Vet Nurse plus in 2010. I’m so glad I choose Vet Nurse plus to complete my studies as a veterinary nurse. I found the theory aspect of the course was brilliant in that the tutors made it fun, interesting and easy to understand in what you were learning and to become as great vet nurse. The practical sessions and clinical rotations allowed you to put all that knowledge into practice. Not only has Vet Nurse plus helped me become a confident and knowledgeable nurse but I have taken away lifelong friendships and memories. I love my job and am so grateful for the help and support that Vet Nurse plus gave me to achieve my certificate.” 

Kellie 2010

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

©Vet Nurse Plus Ltd 2012 Refund Policy  |  Privacy  |  How to contact us Site by TinSoldier