​​​​​​​TAFE NSW Tamworth now boasts a replica veterinary clinic with state-of-the-art teaching tools to train a new generation of veterinary nurses and animal carers in an industry experiencing a surge in demand.

The $545,000 upgrade of the animal studies facilities provides a modern, innovative simulated work environment where students can hone their industry skills and graduate ready to walk into successful careers.

Head Teacher of Animal Care at TAFE NSW Tamworth, Christine McKinnon, said the upgraded facilities will help train vet nurses, pet groomers, and animal carers looking to work in veterinary clinics, animal care shelters or council pounds throughout the Northern Tablelands.

“Sophisticated, practical training environments like this ensure our regional students have access to the highest quality education and training,” Mrs McKinnon said.

“There is a huge increase in demand within the animal services sector following an explosion in pet ownership during COVID-19. These state-of-the-art facilities will help us produce graduates to meet the growing demand for skilled workers in the industry.”

The simulated veterinary clinic features digital dental X-ray and anaesthesia machines, dental equipment, a surgical suite, IV pumps, Resusci dogs and cats for CPR training, and blood machines and microscopes for clinical pathology training.

Mrs McKinnon said students will also benefit from modern teaching tools such as replica animal legs and necks for IV training, anatomy and physiology models, and dog skeletons.

“Students graduate from TAFE NSW with a nationally recognised qualification and the practical skills to walk into a vet clinic or animal shelter and begin work the Monday after they graduate,” she said.

“These facilities will help students gain invaluable real-world experience so they can walk into a new job and immediately be inserting catheters or getting IV drips ready. That kind of practical know-how is what helps deliver skilled workers who are confident and ready to step straight into employment.”

According to the Federal Government’s Job Outlook, strong growth is expected for veterinary nurses and animal carers, with 3,200 additional jobs predicted by 2024.

“There is no better time for students to consider a career in the animal care industry with Australia’s pet population of 29 million now higher than its human population,” Mrs McKinnon said.

“We are really proud to deliver such innovative facilities at TAFE NSW to train and grow the regional workforce our region needs into the future.”

Explore hundreds of courses and pursue your passion with life-changing training at TAFE NSW. For more information visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601.

Media contact: Terra Sword, Communications Specialist. Phone: 6623 0325. Email: terra.sword@tafensw.edu.au.