Page Purpose
To become an Animal Chaplain, a high school student can focus on acquiring a well-rounded education that includes both academic knowledge and practical skills. Here are some possible topics and areas of study that can help bridge the gap between high school and this career:
REMEMBER!
This list is not necessarily the exact path to follow, as there are many factors that can influence your exact path, such as country, type of tertiary institution, and regulations. Please use it as a general study guide to start preparing.
Preparation Path - Study Guide
Step 1: Attend Career Guidance Sessions
Study Topics:
- Career exploration, self-assessment, industry trends
Actions:
- Attend career fairs, participate in career workshops, and meet with guidance counsellors
Possible OZT Links: .
Step 2: Research All Possible Careers
Study Topics:
- Different career paths in the pet funeral industry, job responsibilities, and educational requirements
Actions:
- Conduct online research, read industry publications, and interview professionals in the field
Possible OZT Links: .
Step 3: Explore Educational Paths
Study Topics:
- Funeral service education, animal science, and business management
Actions:
- Research vocational training programmes, certificate courses, and degree programmes. visit colleges and universities, speak with admissions counsellors
Possible OZT Links: .
Step 4: Align High School Subjects with the Educational Path
Study Topics:
- Biology, psychology, business, and communication
Actions:
- Choose relevant elective courses, participate in clubs or activities related to chosen subjects, and seek guidance from teachers or counsellors
Possible OZT Links: .
Step 5: Obtain a High School Diploma or Equivalent
Study Topics:
- High school curriculum requirements, Standardised testing
Actions:
- Focus on academic achievement, meet with academic advisors for support, and seek tutoring or additional help if needed
Possible OZT Links: .
Step 6: Learn About Animals
Study Topics:
- Animal Behaviour, anatomy, and care needs
Actions:
- Volunteer at animal shelters or veterinary clinics, participate in 4-H clubs or similar programmes; read books and articles on animal care
Possible OZT Links: .
Step 7: Align Post-School Path
Study Topics:
- Career options, educational pathways, and entrepreneurship
Actions:
- Research different post-school paths, speak with professionals in the field, and consider internships or job shadowing opportunities
Possible OZT Links: .
Step 8: Gain Experience
Study Topics:
- Practical skills, industry knowledge, and professionalism
Actions:
- Volunteer at pet funeral homes or animal shelters, seek internships or part-time jobs in related fields, and participate in job shadowing or mentorship programmes
Possible OZT Links: .
Step 9: Pursue Extracurricular Activities
Study Topics:
- Leadership, teamwork, and communication
Actions:
- Join clubs or organisations related to animals, business, or community service, take on leadership roles, and participate in volunteer activities
Possible OZT Links: .
Step 10: Join Professional Associations
Study Topics:
- Industry standards, networking, and development
Actions:
- Research professional associations in the pet funeral industry, attend conferences or events, join student chapters or participate in youth programmes offered by associations
Possible OZT Links: .
Step 11: Gain Specialized Skills
Study Topics:
- Pet funeral services, grief Counselling, and business management
Actions:
- Take workshops or courses in pet funeral services or grief counselling; develop skills in customer service, time management, and organisation
Possible OZT Links: .
Step 12: Network with Professionals
Study Topics:
- Professional etiquette, networking strategies
Actions:
- Attend industry events or conferences, connect with professionals on LinkedIn, participate in informational interviews or take advantage of job shadowing opportunities
Possible OZT Links: .
Step 13: Enter the Job Market, Finish Tertiary Studies, or Launch a Business
Study Topics:
- Job search strategies, resume writing, and Interview Skills
Actions:
- Prepare a professional resume and cover letter, practice interviewing skills, research job openings or educational opportunities, and consider entrepreneurial ventures
Possible OZT Links: .
Step 14: Stay Updated and Pursue Continuing Education
Study Topics:
- Industry trends, advancements in pet funeral services
Actions:
- Subscribe to industry publications or newsletters, attend workshops or webinars, and pursue advanced certifications or specialised training programmes
Possible OZT Links: .
This curriculum provides a comprehensive guide for high school students interested in pursuing a career as a pet funeral director, covering key study topics and actions to help them gain the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to succeed in the field.
