What can I do to strengthen my application?

Level 2 Diploma for Veterinary Care Assistants (VCA)

We are looking for students who have a passion for veterinary care and working within the veterinary team environment. You must be able to demonstrate your commitment to achieving the qualification and your desire to join a thriving profession where you can really make a difference.

Work experience

Any relevant animal related work experience over and above the minimum requirements will be looked on favourably and will demonstrate that you understand the profession you will be joining. Work experience can give you a real insight into the work of a veterinary care assistant.

Ensure you make the most of your opportunity whilst there, getting involved and asking questions. The practice/s where you are employed or completing your work experience will need to provide a reference to support your application so it is important that you show your willingness to learn and make a good impression.

Additional work experience that will enhance your application includes that, but is not limited to, undertaken in any small animal veterinary environment and any wider applicable work experience.

Qualifications and hobbies

You must ensure that you have achieved the entry requirements for this programme. In addition to these, any relevant additional training, qualifications or courses you can undertake will not only look good on your CV but may help you when you are on the programme. You may also have animal related hobbies/interests, ensure all these are mentioned on your application and how you think they will help you to be a good veterinary care assistant.

Placement (Full-time VCA only)

Unlike many colleges, we have our own practice liaison team who will make every effort to find you a placement in a veterinary practice. Although we are usually able to do this, it is never guaranteed. As a confirmed placement is one of the criteria of securing a place on the course, students are able to help by finding their own placement in a veterinary practice (does not have to be a training practice) and the practice must be able to offer you mentor support.

Prompt completion of paperwork

Please ensure all application paperwork is completed fully and promptly. Without some key pieces of information your application will not be able to progress in the system.

And finally…

Above are pieces of advice which can help your application but please do not be put off from applying if, for example, you have not completed extra studies in animal care or do not have years of work experience. Good veterinary care assistants come from all walks of life, with varying amounts of prior experience and we welcome each application on its own merit.

To start your application, please fill in our online application form.