University DiplomaVeterinary Technician Higher Apprenticeship

Course overview

The new Vet Technician (Livestock) Apprenticeship is a Level 5 programme of learning, which offers employees veterinary technical and professional education linked to work-based learning and personal development.

An apprenticeship is a job first, with specialist training to support professional development. Apprentices must be employed in the appropriate role on the first day of their apprenticeship and be supported by their employer to achieve training and assessment towards the required Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours (KSBs).

Entry requirements

There are no specific entry requirements but all apprentices must achieve Maths and English at Level 2 prior to achievement (see below). Vet Tech candidates are likely to have some husbandry skills and livestock knowledge, and may have worked in a vet practice at a more junior level. Individual employers will determine their own entry requirements at the recruitment stage; but due to the nature of the role requiring periods of physical exertion, and safe travel to and within places of work, it is expected that candidates will meet certain medical standards of physical health and it is highly likely they will hold a full standard driving licence. As part of the regulations, all apprentices undergo a detailed initial assessment of prior knowledge, skills and behaviours. The apprentice must be employed on the first day of apprenticeship, have the right to work in England for 50% or more of their time, and have been living in the UK/EEA for the past 3 years.

English and Maths

Apprentices cannot achieve an apprenticeship without GCSE English and Maths (A*-C or 9 - 4). Ideally, this will need to be completed prior to enrolment via the functional skills route. This can be funded separately and taken at a local college or provider. If apprentices cannot locate GCSE or equivalent certificates, they will need to sit Functional Skills Tests to complete the apprenticeship as a mandatory requirement.

Application process

Please express your interest by completing our enquiry form for further information. The apprenticeship team can offer guidance to employers who may not have accessed Government funding or co-investment previously and need help to reserve funding for apprentices.