My Blog

ACM10121 Certificate I Animal Care Pathways

This course meets the Nationally Recognised Training standards. It is listed on the Australian Government’s National Register for Vocational Education and Training (VET). Studying this course leads to a qualification that’s recognised throughout Australia, and lets employers know that you have the right skills for the job.

2025 Practical Training Dates

Course Overview

ACM101212 Certificate I in Animal Care Industry Pathways is a great starting point for animal carers and young learners to develop basic animal care skills. This animal care course qualification prepares students for entry into sectors of the animal care and management industry, where workers provide care for animals in workplaces such as pet shops, animal shelters, kennels, catteries, groomers, and sanctuaries.

​This Animal Care Pathways Course will give you an introduction to the animal care industry and teach you how to conduct animal care work practices in an ethical and humane manner. Learn how to complete animal care hygiene routines, feed and water animals, provide basic first aid, and assist in the health care of animals. You’ll also gain workplace skills in effective workplace communication, workplace health and safety, and animal handling practices.

Animal Care Pathways Course
Course Delivery

This course is taught using a blended approach which includes online theory lessons and work placement.

Online

The theory components for the course are delivered online which means students are not required to attend classes or lectures. Students will receive access to our ‘Learning Portal’ where they will find the course materials, interactive learning materials, videos and assessments. In addition, students will also receive a hard copy of the Learner Resource.

​While studying online, students will have access to our teaching support team via email, online chat or phone. Our teaching team will help support and guide students every step on their journey.

​Work Placement

In order to acquire the necessary practical skills to successfully complete a Certificate I Animal Care Industry Pathways qualification, a workplace-based training program (known as a Work Placement) is mandatory. Work placement can be paid employment OR volunteering. Students are required to complete a minimum of 10 full days of work placement.

​It is the students responsibility to search and secure a work placement position that meets their location, schedule, and interests. If a student is currently working or volunteering in an animal- related business, they may be able to use their current employment or volunteering position for the workplace training.

​Students are also able to complete their practical training at the Academy (Gold Coast)

​In the animal and pet sectors, work placements are essential for students to acquire critical skills such as animal handling, animal care, effective communication with clients and customers, as well as teamwork.

Students have a choice of payment options that best suit their financial circumstances:

1. Direct Debit Options:
2. Instalment Option:

Pay in six (6) installments – 1st installment $1000 enrolment fee plus 5 x $1400 installments

Entry Requirements
Core Units

ACMGEN101 Explore job opportunities in animal care and related industries
ACMGEN102 Approach and handle a range of calm animals
ACMGEN103 Assist in the care of animals
ACMWHS201 Participate in workplace health and safety processes
FSKOCM002 Engage in short and simple spoken exchanges at work
ACMINF101 Take responsibility for the health and welfare of animals in own care
BSBCMM211 Apply communication skills

Contact Us - The Pet
Stylist Academy