Treating humans – not for Kayla, but teaching humans – absolutely

“I was not sure what I wanted to do when I finished school, so I initially started studying a Bachelor of Biomedical Science at the University of Southern Queensland, but I quickly found out that it wasn’t the right path for me,” Kayla began.

“I changed into allied health, hoping to become a physiotherapist, however again, I realised that humans weren’t for me, so I then tried my hands at veterinary nursing – something I had always been passionate about, but had considered ‘out of reach’.”

Kayla was working full-time in hospitality while she was studying, but before she had completed her course, she secured a role in the animal care industry.

“I started studying my Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing whilst working full-time as a barista and cook at a service station. I got offered a job at a mixed-practice clinic during my placement, and then in 2019, I obtained my first permanent vet nursing position at a small animal general practice – Gatton Vet Surgery,” shared Kayla.

Kayla moved quickly through the ‘ranks’ in her career, soon becoming head nurse, followed by Practice Manager.

Whilst in the clinic Kayla also discovered her passion for teaching (and veterinary anaesthesia), having been called upon to mentor work-experience students.

“I enjoyed showing students the right way to do things and explaining the reasons for doing the things we do. I also enjoyed showing them that vet nursing was within reach for them – just like it was for me,” Kayla said.

“As for my ‘anaesthesia’ niche – I had always felt compelled to learn more, beyond my certificate qualification, and so I focused on my own independent learning of anaesthesia.” 

“For me, anaesthesia is the most important job of a vet nurse – we are keeping people’s loved ones alive – so I wanted to understand how to do it right and to help other nurses understand also,” Kayla continued.

This eventually led Kayla to obtain a second role and casual position at the University of Queensland (UQ) Vets in anaesthesia where she still works one day per week, and in emergency occasionally, to maintain her industry currency.

It was during her time at Gatton Vet Surgery that Kayla worked closely with trainee vet nurses and the experience, in addition to some encouragement from a TAFE Queensland educator, inspired her to take that next step towards teaching.

“I had mentored a few TAFE Queensland vet nursing students during my time as Practice Manager and Nurse at Gatton Vet Surgery and from this I had developed a relationship with Leticia, who is a fellow TAFE Queensland animal studies teacher,” Kayla explained.

“When there was an opening for a role, Leticia informed me and recommended I apply, as I had already begun studying my Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40122) however, I just did not expect the opportunity so early on in my career,” she said.

“Now, At TAFE Queensland in Toowoomba, I teach Certificate II in Animal Care (ACM20121) and Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing (ACM40418) – each includes a range of theory and practical sessions, with the Certificate IV weighted towards being more practical – for example I teach catheter placements, fluid setups and CPR protocols,” Kayla shared.

For Kayla, her career with TAFE Queensland brings a greater sense of balance when compared with her role in animal care, which often involved long work days.

“TAFE Queensland has a great culture, and I have an amazing work/life balance,” explained Kayla.

“I also, because of the subject matter, get to bring my dogs to work!” she said.

“I find this really helps the students to get a better understanding of animal behaviour and helps them to get completely comfortable with dogs before entering a career filled with animals.”

“Also, because I have larger dog breeds – one being a German Shepherd – I love teaching the students about her, and try to remove any stigma around her breed,” Kayla said.

Kayla owns three dogs, including a German Sheperd, and often brings them to work with her.

Naturally, Kayla is encouraging of prospective animal carers or vet nurses who are considering pursuing a career in the industry.

Kayla offered: “I think it is important to students coming into the Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing (ACM40418) (in particular) to have an open mind as to what their career can look like – some may work in clinics, some may work in labs, there are just so many opportunities.” 

“For example, you might end up doing further studies in wildlife, zoo animals, exotics, or you might explore a niche and study animal dentistry or equine,” she continued. 

“This career can see you work in regional and remote areas of Australia, and potentially other countries.”

“I really feel a  Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing (ACM40418) can also be a great introduction to veterinary technology or veterinary science too, before committing to the degree,” Kayla finished.