VCS/ VCA Student placement
Veterinary Care Support/Assistant
This position requires the student to gain a place on the relevant level 2 course at Greenmount College, Antrim or North West Regional College, Limavady. These courses will equip students with the skills and knowledge required to support qualified veterinary staff and prepare students for careers as VCAs or VCSs in veterinary practices. It is also used as the main avenue into the level 3 Veterinary Nursing courses based in the same colleges.
The course is delivered at the Colleges on a day-release basis over one academic year. 20 hours a week is spent working voluntarily in City Vets. Successful candidates will normally have worked in City Vets for a trial period before being given a placement position.
This Course Covers:
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Basic practical management and reception skills
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Companion animal anatomy and physiology
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Control and restraint of animals
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Maintenance of animal accommodation
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Principles of infection control
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The care of ill and injured animals within a veterinary practice
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The husbandry and welfare of domestic animals
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Progression opportunities and career destinations
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Students who successfully complete the VCS / VCA course may progress onto the Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (VN) course at Greenmount or Limavady with City Vets.
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Important Note:
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Due to the limited availability of places on the VN course City Vets can not guarantee a VN placement. Students who have completed the VCA / VCS course with City Vets will be treated more favourably during the selection process for the VN course.
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Entry Requirements:
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Minimum requirements can be found on the relevant college websites. City Vets wish all VCA / VCSs who pass the course to progress on to the VN course but the VN course is much more demanding. This is why City Vets will be expecting applicants for the VCA / VCS courses to have GCSE Grade As and Bs or A-level passes. Experience working with animals is favourable so applicants are encouraged to find regular placements with animal shelters and animal charities. Applicants must be at least 16 years or over, and be prepared to work voluntarily for at least 20 hours/week in City Vets.