U-Skills STAR Vet Nursing Taster

Love animals? Find out what it's like to be a vet nurse!


Quick Facts

Locations

UCOL Manawatū in Palmerston North, UCOL Horowhenua in Levin

Dates

Palmerston North

Term 2: 24 Jun 2026 & 01 Jul 2026

Term 3: 16 Sep 2026 & 23 Sep 2026

Levin

Term 2: 10 Jun 2026 & 17 Jun 2026

Delivery day:

Wednesdays


View Timetable
Duration

Delivered over 2 days from 9am - 3pm.


See Course Hours & Duration for details
Domestic Fees
Fees-free to learners. Fees apply to participating schools.
International Fees
Not applicable.

Application Forms

Overview

This STAR Taster gives you complete practical activities that are common in everyday vet practices.

If you are interested in participating in this STAR Taster, please talk to your Careers Advisor at school.

Course Hours

Delivered from 9am - 3pm.

Course Information

  • Basic animal care
  • Basic control and restraint
  • Basic grooming
  • Confidentiality and professional issues

Domestic Entry Requirements

For year 11 - 13 secondary school learners (NZ Citizens, permanent residents or learners with an applicable visa allowing them to be enrolled in a secondary school).

Applications are to be received from participating schools.

International Entry Requirements

Not applicable.

Career Opportunities

This STAR Taster is the first step in exploring this career pathway which can lead to further tertiary studies in:


To find out more about possible job prospects and salaries for Veterinarians and Veterinary Nurses, visit tahatu.govt.nz 

Advice And Guidance

This STAR Taster is offered by UCOL to secondary learners seeking to explore their career options while still in school.

If you are interested in participating in this STAR Taster, please talk to your Careers Advisor at school.

Costs

Fees-free for learners. Upon successful application, your school will pay UCOL a fee.

Additional Costs

There are no additional costs associated with this taster. Simply, bring a pen, paper and your lunch each week.