College gains VetSkill centre status with launch of new apprenticeship

Hopwood Hall College and University Centre has been approved as a recognised VetSkill Centre – just as it launches an exciting new apprenticeship.

This important accreditation means that the college is approved to deliver the organisation’s growing portfolio of qualifications.

In the first instance, Hopwood will be offering a brand new veterinary nurse apprenticeship.

This Level 3 qualification begins in September, runs for 30 months and can be undertaken by people of any age who are eager to gain a skillset that will allow them to support the care and treatment of companion animals.

The apprenticeship training will see people gaining hands-on experience with animals at the college’s sprawling campus in Middleton.

The Blue Cross charity – one of the college’s many employer partners – has a cat rehoming centre located at the campus.

This means apprentices will have the opportunity to work closely with these felines during the course of their training.

In addition, Hopwood operates boarding kennels for dogs and also homes various breeds of homes rabbits at the campus – all of which apprentices will gain valuable experience with.

The college’s unique set-up will ensure the programme equips apprentices with the skills to provide a high standard of care and treatment for animals, including skilled supportive care, carrying out diagnostic tests and treatments under veterinary direction.

Hopwood’s dedicated team of expert tutors will support the apprentices every step of the way, ensuring that they thrive and develop the skills required to become truly excellent veterinary nurses.

The college’s record for success is evident across its other apprenticeships and vocational courses, including the popular Level 2 Certificate in animal nursing which offers the perfect pathway onto this new veterinary nurse apprenticeship.

Sarah Whitehurst, programme manager for animal care and equine at Hopwood Hall College and University Centre, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been confirmed as an approved centre for VetSkill and are thrilled to be welcoming our first cohort of veterinary nurse apprentices this September.

“We have a long history as a successful provider of animal care and animal management programmes which are completed by people of all ages from Further Education to Higher Education.

“The introduction of this new apprenticeship training route really complements our offer and is great news for all veterinary employers across the North West.”