Level 2 Animal Care Apprentice (Veterinary Care Support role)

The apprentice will work as part of the veterinary team, supporting the day-to-day care and welfare of animals.

Duties may include:

• Feeding, grooming and caring for animals
• Safely handling and restraining patients
• Preparing and cleaning clinical and animal areas
• Following infection-control and biosecurity procedures
• Supporting pre- and post-operative care
• Assisting with inpatient care and monitoring
• Recognising and reporting changes in health, welfare or behaviour
• Supporting routine veterinary procedures
• Communicating professionally with clients and colleagues
• Maintaining accurate records
• Working safely and professionally within the veterinary environment
• The apprentice will gain practical experience while developing the skills and behaviours needed for a Veterinary Care Support role

Training will be delivered by Goddard Veterinary Nursing College (GVNC) through a blended learning programme combining workplace experience, structured online teaching, face-to-face college sessions and practical skills development.

Most of the apprentice’s time will be spent working in veterinary practice, where they will be supported by experienced colleagues and a Clinical Supervisor to develop practical skills and confidence. GVNC typically structures apprenticeship learning around approximately four days in practice and one day of lessons or study each week. 

College days may be delivered online, in person or through structured self-directed study, depending on the subject and practical requirements. The Level 2 college day normally runs from 9.30am to 4.00pm, with regular assessments and learning activities throughout the programme.

GNVC Apprentices will also complete practical assessments, written assignments, portfolio evidence and preparation for their end-point assessment. Practical skills are reinforced through face-to-face teaching and supervised experience within the veterinary workplace. 

GVNC also uses Microsoft Teams Education to support online learning, communication with tutors and access to digital resources. 

This approach allows apprentices to earn while they learn, combining a paid role with a recognised qualification and real experience in veterinary practice.

Successful completion of the Level 2 Veterinary Care Support qualification can lead to a role as a qualified Veterinary Care Support Assistant within veterinary practice. Learners may also progress into other animal-care roles, including kennels, catteries, animal charities and pet-care environments. 

For those who meet the relevant entry requirements and wish to continue their veterinary career, the Level 2 qualification and workplace experience can provide a pathway towards the Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing, with the aim of becoming a Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN). 

GVNC supports learners to build confidence, practical experience and professional skills throughout their training, helping them progress within veterinary practice and the wider animal-care sector.

We have a cash back benefits scheme, staff discounts and health care plan scheme.

Goddard Veterinary Group (GVG) is a long-established veterinary organisation providing high-quality care across London and the surrounding areas. The group has been caring for pets for more than 70 years and now includes 46 veterinary practices, three veterinary hospitals and its own veterinary nursing college. Goddard Veterinary Group

GVG places strong emphasis on teamwork, learning and colleague wellbeing. Apprentices are supported by experienced veterinary teams and dedicated apprenticeship tutors, gaining practical experience in a busy professional environment while developing the skills needed for a career in veterinary care. Goddard Veterinary Group

The organisation also offers a range of colleague benefits and supports ongoing professional development and progression within the veterinary sector