ACM20121 Certificate II In

Animal Care Intensive (Health & Welfare)

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Perth's only Nationally Accredited Animal Health and Animal Welfare Focused Course - Start from just $668.20*

Have you ever dreamed of working with animals? Are you looking for an introduction to the animal care and animal welfare industry or a job seeker looking to improve your opportunities? Are you a volunteer and want to offer more help and assistance to an animal welfare or rescue centre, animal adoption, cattery or kennel facility? 

AVT’s ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care (Health and Welfare Course), previously ACM20117 Certificate II in Animal Studies, is a great place to get started if you are looking to enter the industry or meet the prerequisite for our Veterinary Nursing qualification. 

This intensive 14-week course includes weekly training at the Cat Haven in Shenton Park and at the Greyhounds as Pets (GAP) kennel facility in Southern River. It is one of the quickest ways to gain a Nationally Recognised Animal Care Qualification and obtain valuable experience in a local animal shelter and kennel facilities.

Government Funded Subsidised Discount fees for Animal Care and Vet Nursing

Are you unemployed or working less than 20 hours per week?

You maybe eligible for a funded Jobs & Skills WA position. Read More >>

Course snapshot

  • Duration: 14 weeks
  • Application Status: Apply Now
  • Next Intake:  Commences July 2023 
  • Practical Training:  1 day per week at the Cat Haven or GAP (Thurs/Fri)
  • Class Time: Wednesday on-campus in Ascot
  • Fees:  Subsidised fees start from just $668.20*
  • Prerequisite: none required
  • Best suited to: Students and Job Seekers who wish to start a career in the animal care industry or those who wish to go on to further studies such as Vet Nursing. This course meets the prerequisite for the national qualification.
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Animal Care and Welfare Course - Cat Haven Perth
Animal Health - GAP and Cat Haven course
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Course outline

This is a blended learning course including online eLearning and on-campus and on-site training. Your assessments will be completed face-to-face as well as online. 

During your Animal Health and Welfare course you will have 1 day per week of practical training, 1 day per week of classroom activities plus you will be required to undertake online eLearning from home.

The structure is as follows:-

  • A full day induction at AVT’s Campus in Ascot at the commencement of the course,
  • 1 day per week at the Cat Haven located in Shenton Park, WA OR at Greyhounds as Pets located in Southern River, WA. You will spend time at each of the facilities during the course 

PLUS

  • 1 day per week at AVT’s Campus in Ascot to receive intensive small group practical training and undertake assessments, 

PLUS

  • Home-based online eLearning to complete and submit assessments.

We will endeavour to meet your preference for practical training / on-site training days but this can not be guaranteed. Students are expected to participate in ALL practical training days.

To commence the Animal Health and Welfare Course, students must:

  • be available to participate in ALL training days (1.5 days per week)
  • be physically capable of restraining animals, handling animal feed e.g. large bags of food of up to 10 kg and standing for extended periods of time
  • have a reliable internet connection and access to a desktop computer or laptop. You will be required to write, submit and in some cases upload assessments and various types of multi-media files online in your own time, therefore we strongly recommend using a desktop or laptop computer for your studies
  • be proficient in speaking and writing in English
  • must be at least 18 years of age
  • due to the required workload and level of study, have a minimum level of schooling up to and including year 10, with a good understanding of science and maths.

You will be undertaking activities with cats. If you are pregnant or thinking about falling pregnant throughout the course, we suggest speaking with your doctor or medical professional before enrolment. If you would like to discuss your individual situation with us further, please feel free to get in touch with our student support team. 

This course is highly competitive and has limited places. Therefore, successful students are selected based on prior work experience, education, individual attitude and aptitude. Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed by an AVT team member.

Credit transfers

Students with eligible credit transfers may apply, however due to the course delivery format, 100% attendance is required for orientation/induction and practical placement days and therefore full course fees will apply.

For our Animal Health and Welfare Course you will be required to wear:

  • an AVT shirt (supplied by AVT)
  • steel capped shoes (supplied by student),
  • neatly presented, long comfortable work pants suitable for bending and manual work (supplied by student).

“Presentation is key to success”

What will you learn?

During our Animal Care and Animal Welfare course, you will become familiar with the fundamental principles of working in the animal care industry. In addition to the topics covered in the Certificate II in Animal Care course, you will be introduced to:-

  • The principles of working and volunteering in the animal care industry.
  • Understanding body language in animals and encouraging natural animal behaviours.
  • Low stress handling and minimising stress in the rescue or animal care environment.
  • Enrichment in an animal care environment including mental stimulation, exercise and feed planning and socialisation.
  • Increasing an animal’s potential for rehoming.
  • Animal health and well-being including first aid for animals.

All of the skills and knowledge you will learn in this animal care and animal welfare course can be applied in an animal adoption, shelter or rescue based organisation or across a broad range of animal care facilities in commercial organisations. For more information on careers working with animals read our article Top 6 Animal Care Careers.

Course in animal welfare and care

Course outcomes

Our graduates go on to a wide range of roles across the animal care industry. 

Job Outcomes

Students who have completed the Certificate II in Animal Care go on to careers as a:

  • Animal care attendant
  • Animal welfare shelter attendant
  • Kennel hand
  • Cattery attendant
  • Pet shop attendant
  • Assistant dog groomer
  • Stable hand
  • Vet assistant

Skills Outcomes

Some of the skills you will be able to apply once qualified include:

  • Follow and implement animal feeding plans
  • Carry out animal care hygiene routines
  • Assist with the assessing the health of animals
  • Administer basic animal first aid techniques
  • Safety and correctly handle and restrain animals
  • Identify and interpret animal behaviour
    Accurately complete animal care records

Animal Care and Welfare Course Content

All students must complete the following core units:

  • ACMWHS201 Participate in workplace health & safety processes
  • ACMGEN202 Complete animal care hygiene routines
  • BSBCMM211 Apply communication skills
  • ACMGEN203 Feed & water animals
  • ACMGEN204 Assist in healthcare of animals
  • ACMSUS201 Participate in environmentally sustainable work practices
  • ACMGEN201 Work in the animal care industry

Certificate II Intensive (Animal Health & Welfare) Students will also be required to study:

  • ACMINF201 Handle companion animals safely and follow infection control guidelines
  • ACMSPE322 Provide general care of rodents or rabbits
  • ACMGEN205 Source and provide information for animal care needs
  • ACMGEN102 Approach and handle a range of calm animals
  • ACMGEN309 Provide basic animal first aid

Why choose an intensive pathway for your Animal Care course?

  • Professionally managed and delivered course – with on-site supervision, complete with tutorials and lectures to help you understand and apply theory with ease.
  • Qualified lecturers delivering supervised practical training and assessment with a structured study time table to ensure you stay on track and are learning from the best.
  • This intensive pathway will allow you to meet the prerequisite for Veterinary Nursing – you can gain your qualification in 14 weeks and can then apply for ACM40418 Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing to become a qualified veterinary nurse. ** 
  • No stress! – This unique format course also means you do not have to worry about finding your own work placement normally required for this national qualification. Your essential practical training and classroom training will take place in a small group setting with other like-minded students.
  • This certificate increases your opportunities for employment in the animal care industry and gives recognition towards entry into further studies.

** Completion of this qualification meets the prerequisite for ACM40418 Cert IV in Veterinary Nursing. However, it does not guarantee you a place on one of our own courses. Due to high demand, our AVT selection criteria also apply. Please read full details on our Veterinary Nursing Course Entry page.

Nationally recognised animal care course in Australia NRT

What students are saying about this course

The study modules for the Certificate III were structured in a way that made them extremely interesting and easy to understand. Throughout the courses, I gained an insight into the day-to-day running of animal care facilities and was able to build-up my practical experience through my work placement at a native animal rehabilitation facility.
Hayley Wilson
Hayley WilsonCertificate III in Animal Studies Graduate
Having had no animal learning before, I find this course brilliant with clear concise notes, knowledgeable lecturers and RSPCA staff, and especially having the day at the RSPCA is extremely beneficial. Hands on learning and getting interaction with animals is a great help in learning handling behaviours.
Alison M
Alison MCertificate III in Animal Studies Graduate
This course has taught me the basic care of animals and about animal health in general. This course allows people to get hands on experience and lecturers to provide practical care to animals. Thus; others with an interest in animals will gain and have a positive outcome to the course, alike to me.
Abby G
Abby GCertificate III in Animal Studies Graduate
Everyone is super helpful if you need anything explained. Skye conducts classes in a relaxed and friendly environment so I feel comfortable joining in, and she is always willing to explain anything until everything is clarified.
Megan B
Megan BCertificate III in Animal Studies Graduate

Fees & inclusions

Total course fees start from $668.20*

Our fee range depends on your eligibility for a Jobs & Skills WA based funded position and your concession status (see full details here). All fees are payable via our monthly payment plan. Our fees include:-

  • Dedicated student support
  • One-on-one mentoring by AVT Trainers 
  • Membership to a Private Facebook Group for your class
  • Access to the AVT interactive online eLearning Centre
  • Assessments and Certification
  • Practical training insurance
  • Work Placement Kit: Uniform, name badge and workbook and goodies. 
arrow-icon-size3 Fees and Payment

If you would like more information about our fees, the initial deposit and payment plan, including options, please contact our friendly Student Support Team OR Request a Call

* Funded places are subject to eligibility and availability. Student tuition fees are indicative only and are subject to change given individual circumstances at enrolment. Additional fees may apply such as student service and resource fees. If you decide to withdraw from study for any reason, refunds are not issued unless you are a Jobs & Skills WA funded student. Please see our policies page for full details.

Apply Now for our Next Animal Health and Welfare Course

Course Dates
Application Status
July 2023 Intake
Course runs 3 Jul - 6 Oct 2023
Applications Now Open
October 2023 Intake
Course commences October 2023

This course has limited places. We recommend submitting your application, as early as possible.  AVT reserves the right to cancel or make changes to the location and training days for this course (See cancellation policy). For full details of the application process please visit this link.

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FAQs

International – FAQ
b
I am a non-resident visa holder, can I study with AVT?

In some cases, registered training organisations (RTOs) may enrol non-resident students who are temporarily visiting or reside in Australia on certain visas, other than study visas. However, some visas include restrictions on training. Most visas and sub-class visas clearly outline what your study rights are in Australia. It is the responsibility of the individual to check their study and work rights according to their individual visa. 

Further information is also available from the Department of Home Affairs.

Visa information for Jobs & Skills WA Funding Jobs and Skills WA funded programs

Students wishing to be considered for funded places in the ACM40418 Certificate  IV in Veterinary Nursing should visit this page for more detailed information about eligibility. 

Students wishing to be considered for funded places in the ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care (Health & Welfare) course should visit this page for detailed information about eligibility.

Related FAQ’s:

 

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b
Can an RTO enrol an overseas visitor into a course and not be CRICOS registered?

In some cases, a registered training organisation (RTO) may enrol students who are temporarily visiting or reside in Australia on certain visas, other than study visas. However, some visas include restrictions on training. Most visas and sub-class visas clearly outline what your study rights are in Australia. It is the responsibility of the individual to check their study and work rights according to their individual visa* . Further information is also available from the Department of Home Affairs.

*Any course undertaken by a student visa holder must be registered on CRICOS and training must be provided by a CRICOS registered provider (The Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students). Applied Vocational Training is not a registered CRICOS provider and as such we are unable to accept applications from individuals wishing to study on a student visa.

Related FAQ’s:

I live overseas, can I still study your courses online?

I am a non-resident visa holder, can I study with AVT?

Is the Australian Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing recognised worldwide?

I currently live overseas, can I apply for your on-campus full-time course? Will I need an international student visa?

Is the Australian Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing recognised worldwide?

 

Tags: international, overseas, visa, CRICOS

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b
I wish to study in Australia on a student visa. Can I study with Applied Vocational Training?

This answer specifically addresses students who wish to study in Australia on a Student Visa.

Unfortunately, we are unable to assist individuals with studying as an international student as we do not hold the required CRICOS registration “The Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students.

The following link outlines the main steps to be taken to be able to study in Australia homeaffairs.gov.au. This will require applying for a student visa under the Vocational Education and Training Sector. However, you will need to have been accepted into a full-time study course by a CRICOS approved provider and then apply for the student visa. These normally take approximately 46 days to process.

You may find CRICOS registered training institutions in Australia who can offer qualifications to international students. Some TAFE (Technical and Further Education) institutions hold CRICOS registration and offer courses in Animal Studies and Veterinary Nursing.

Related FAQ’s:

Can an RTO enrol an overseas visitor into a course and not be CRICOS registered?

I live overseas, can I still study your courses online?

Is the Australian Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing recognised worldwide?

I currently live overseas, can I apply for your on-campus full-time course? Will I need an international student visa?

I am a non-resident visa holder, can I study with AVT?

Tags: international, overseas, visa, CRICOS

Tags: cricos, international, overseas, visa
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b
I currently live overseas, can I apply for your on-campus courses? Will I need an international student visa?

This answer specifically addresses international students who wish to study in Australia on a Student Visa.

Unfortunately, we are unable to assist individuals with studying as an international student in Australia as we do not have the necessary registration with our government to enrol students in Australia on a Student Visa. The required registration for this is CRICOS ‘The Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students’.

To find out more about studying in Australia we recommend visiting the Australian Government website: homeaffairs.gov.au. This will require applying for a student visa under the Vocational Education and Training Sector. However, you will need to have been accepted into a full-time study course by a CRICOS approved provider and then apply for the student visa. These normally take approximately 46 days to process.

You may find CRICOS registered training institutions in Australia who can offer qualifications to international students. Some TAFE (Technical and Further Education) institutions hold CRICOS registration and offer courses in Animal Studies and Veterinary Nursing

Related FAQ’s:

Is the Australian Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing recognised worldwide?

Can an RTO enrol an overseas visitor into a course and not be CRICOS registered?

I wish to study in Australia on a student visa. Can I study with Applied Vocational Training?

I live overseas, can I still study your courses online?

I am a non-resident visa holder, can I study with AVT?

 

Tags: international, overseas, visa, CRICOS

Tags: cricos, international, overseas, visa
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b
I live overseas, can I still study your courses online?

All qualifications offered by Applied Vocational Training require students to learn and demonstrate knowledge and practical application of a significant amount of Australian local and state legislation, regulations and standards.

In other countries, legislation, regulations and standards are often different, making it difficult for us to assess and recognise competence in all areas.

As such, Applied Vocational Training no longer accepts applications from students living overseas*

Important note for students wishing to return or live in Australia

* Individuals who currently live overseas but are intending to return and or/live in Australia may be considered for enrolment. If such enrolment were to occur it would not be possible for any certification to be awarded until the student could be assessed as competent in Australia, regardless of the amount of course work completed overseas.

 

Related FAQ’s:

I currently live overseas, can I apply for your on-campus full-time course? Will I need an international student visa?

Can an RTO enrol an overseas visitor into a course and not be CRICOS registered?

I wish to study in Australia on a student visa. Can I study with Applied Vocational Training?

Is the Australian Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing recognised worldwide?

I am a non-resident visa holder, can I study with AVT?

 

Tags: cricos, international, overseas, visa
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Why choose AVT?

Dedicated Animal Care College

AVT has been delivering Vet Nursing and Animal Care related courses for over 20 years. It's safe to say there are no plumbing or hairdressing courses here!

Prerequisite course for veterinary nursing

Outstanding Track Record

A recent NCVER VET student outcomes report found 93% of AVT graduates were employed or enrolled in further study after training and 95% of graduates would recommend the training provided by AVT

Prerequisite course for veterinary nursing

Safe and Supported Learning

Our qualified teaching team have many years of experience as well as extensive backgrounds in the veterinary and animal care industry. They are approachable and dedicated to helping students succeed.

Download Course Guides

The leader in Vet Nursing qualifications, Animal Care (Animal Studies) and Animal Behaviour and Training Courses for students wishing to pursue a career working with animals. AVT is a nationally recognised training provider based in Perth, Western Australia providing on-campus and online courses to students studying throughout Australia. Learn More

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We acknowledge the traditional owners of the land where our campus is based, the Whadjuk people of the Noongar Nation. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging and we commit to walking alongside our indigenous brothers and sisters. We extend that respect to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in our community.

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