Animal Care Courses
NTA offers a comprehensive suite of Animal Care courses, designed to prepare students for rewarding careers in a variety of animal-related industries.
Animal Care involves studying animal behaviour, health, handling, feeding, and general welfare - equipping students with the skills to help animals thrive in both domestic and rural settings.
Students are immersed in caring for the animals on-site, learning about and handling many different animals most days.
These Animal Care courses are NZQA-approved and range from Levels 2 to 4. They are open to both domestic and international students. Students can start while still at school through Dual Enrolment options at Levels 2 and 3, or they can study full time. Full-time courses require ‘work experience’ hours, which helps lead the students into the workforce.
The full-time Level 2 course includes literacy and numeracy and is offered under the Youth Guarantee scheme, which makes it free for eligible students.
At Level 3, students can specialize in Companion Animals, Rural Animals, or both, preparing them for roles in environments such as pet stores, wildlife centres, and rescue organisations.
For those seeking more advanced training, the Level 4 qualification in Rural Animal Healthcare Assisting is ideal for individuals aiming to work alongside veterinarians in rural areas. NTA is also hoping to run the Equine Healthcare Assisting strand from 2026 onwards (subject to NZQA approval).
NTA’s practical, career-focused approach includes extensive hands-on experience at their 75-hectare Arion Farm Park, as well as visits to external facilities such as breeders, shelters, and welfare agencies. Small class sizes and expert tutors who are committed to student success, provide strong academic support, while the academy’s strong ties to the animal care industry boost students’ employment prospects. The wide range of animals ensures an immersive and engaging learning environment.
