It’s not just petting in Animal Studies

If caring for and training animals sounds like a dream subject to you while studying your SACE, then animal studies is right up your alley.

“At NASC we have Certificates I, II and III in Animal Studies and Certificate IV is Companion Animal Services so it’s slightly different.” says Laura Brady, Northern Adelaide Senior College’s Animal Studies teacher.

“With Cert I and II we’re really looking at your general animal care. Cert III is more about infection control and nutrition. Certificate IV is focusing on dog training.”

Laura warns that students need to be prepared that it’s not always animal petting when entering her class.

“There is some animal petting, but it’s not all animal petting. It’s probably 50% written, 50% practical, and everyone is expected to do some work experience as well,” says Laura.

“I’ve had students get employment in pet shops, vet clinics, dog groomers, dog trainers. I have people who have gone onto VET nursing work and study. Really up to you where it goes.”

Cindy M., who works at the Animal Welfare League, chose to study Animal Studies at NASC as part of her professional development

“I wanted to learn a bit more about grooming,” says Cindy.

“Where I work, I work with animals, so I know a lot about that. But all the laws and things I haven’t learned before. It’s been interesting.”

Bethanie Dibbin, a former NASC student and current Animal Studies Hourly-Paid-Instructor (HPI), reminisces about her decision to study here at NASC.

“I was really undecided about career pathways and I always had a passion for animals,” says Bethanie.

“So I did the Cert I to see what it was like and see where I wanted to go in the future. I really liked Cert I.

“Working with the animals and handling was a really big shock. I didn’t realize how many times you had to be careful not to pull on things or grab stuff.

“It’s been really good altogether. I’ve learnt so much, like a lot.”

Returning as a HPI at NASC has inspired Bethanie to pursue further studies.

“I wanted to get into teaching, I wanted to get my Bachelor of Education,” smiles Bethanie.

“I thought this would be a good step to dip my toes in and see how it would go. It’s been really good for that because I’ve decided to go on to do my Bachelor.”

Or if you’d like to enrol as a year 11-13 student at Northern Adelaide Senior College contact us on (08) 7285 1600 to book an appointment.