Farm animals course aligned with the seasons to provide real-time learning for technicians

The ability to assist vets on farm is an essential skill in today's farming environment. Photo / NZME

Whanganui-based AGC Training has designed and developed an innovative new Rural Animal Technician Level 5 programme for delivery in 2021.

The innovation lies in the ability to deliver the course remotely to students already working with large rural animals daily. The programme is also designed to create authentic and real-life learning experiences with unit components designed to align with the seasons, allowing students to engage in real-time learning as it happens on the teaching farm, as well as in work placements.

AGC Training executive director Peter Macdonald said the Rural Animal Technician Level 5 course was delivered through the normal classroom with on-farm components system, but it was now also available remotely to those already working with large animals.

The 40-week course is fees free as part of the Government's Targeting Training and Apprenticeship Fund (TTAF).

"Those choosing to do the programme extramurally must already be employed in a job working with large animals," Macdonald said.

"There are six compulsory courses within the programme, all timed to align with the season and what is actually happening. This programme is ideal for those working on dairy farms, shepherds on sheep and beef farms, or people working with horses, deer and other large animals."

Graduates will have developed the skills and knowledge to work as rural animal technicians. Students are required to complete practical activities and a minimum number of hours in a veterinary practice or alongside a rural veterinarian.

Rural animal technicians assist veterinarians either in a large rural animal practice or in conjunction with veterinarians as a technician in a farm setting. Farm settings may also include specialised fields like artificial insemination, pregnancy scanning or stud farms and stables.