Blended Learning helped Mia turn her passion from the stables into a career in the clinic
For Mia, becoming a veterinary nurse felt like a natural step. Growing up in a racing stable, she was surrounded by animals from the time she could walk, riding ponies as a toddler and competing from age 13. At just 16, she began work experience at an equine veterinary clinic, where she was later offered a role. Keen to broaden her skills, Mia went on to work with small animals at a mixed practice after high school, an experience that confirmed her dream of pursuing veterinary nursing.
“I’ve always had a deep love for animals and a strong desire to work in the animal health industry. Those early experiences really showed me how much I wanted to be involved in their care.”
We asked Mia to share her experience studying the ACM40418 Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing via AVT’s Blended Learning study mode. Here’s her story in her own words.
Choosing AVT’s blended learning study mode
When it came to choosing how to study Veterinary Nursing, Mia needed flexibility. She was working four days a week, riding horses before work, competing on weekends and living an hour away from our Ascot campus!
“Blended learning offered the best of both worlds. “I still had weekly and monthly virtual check-ins and quarterly on-campus workshops, which kept me connected and gave me hands-on practice, but I could also fit my studies around my busy schedule.”
Although she initially worried about staying on track without face-to-face classes, Mia found AVT’s support invaluable. The monthly virtual sessions and check-in calls kept her accountable, while the combination of textbooks, slideshows and live classes catered to her learning style.
Highlights of the course
Mia describes the course content as comprehensive and essential for building her knowledge. Units on anatomy, anaesthesia, clinical pathology and medications gave her a strong foundation for her role, while the practical workshops and placements cemented her learning.
One standout moment was the anatomy workshops:
“The dissections were incredibly beneficial. Being able to physically interact with structures like the heart and skeletal system deepened my understanding in a way textbooks couldn’t. It was an invaluable experience.”
The transition from theory to practice was made easier by her supportive workplace, where vets and nurses encouraged her to apply new skills and ask questions.
“Blended learning gave me the flexibility I needed while still providing the practical opportunities to develop my skills in the field.”
Award-winning achievement
Mia’s dedication and consistently high performance were recognised in 2024 when she received the AVT Certificate of Merit for Veterinary Nursing (Blended Learning).
This award is presented to a student who demonstrates genuine commitment and excellence throughout their studies.
Life after graduation
Since completing her course, Mia has been working as a veterinary nurse at the same clinic where she completed her placement, Greencross Vets Baldivis.
Her role covers everything from anaesthetic monitoring and surgical preparation to patient care and client support. She’s also pursuing further professional development to continue building her skills.
“The practical workshops at AVT really prepared me. From IV placements to clinical pathology and anaesthetic equipment set up, those skills are part of my daily work now.”
Advice for future students
For those considering veterinary nursing, Mia encourages exploring all study options to find the right fit, but she strongly recommends the blended learning mode to anyone juggling work, hobbies or family commitments.
“Blended learning worked so well for me because it gave me the flexibility I needed while still offering hands-on experience. If you’re motivated and willing to put the work in, it’s an excellent pathway into veterinary nursing.”
Mia’s top advice:
Stay organised with a clear study schedule
Connect with classmates for motivation and support
Never stop asking questions
“Blended learning worked so well for me because it gave me the flexibility I needed while still offering hands-on experience. If you’re motivated and willing to put the work in, it’s an excellent pathway into veterinary nursing.”
Find out more about Veterinary Nursing
Want to learn more? Read more posts about Veterinary Nursing here
Courses you may like
On-Site Intensive
ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care (Vet Nursing Pathway)
About Vet Nurse Pathway
Vet Nursing Pathway
Online & On-campus
ACM40418 Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing
About Vet Nursing
