
When I was at school (a few years ago now :D ) you needed 4 GCSE's (grade C or above) one of which was a science subject and you would start working at a vets practice and usually do one day a week at college and do your training that way. Have you thought of going to an Agricultural College ?? I did the First Diploma and National Diploma in Animal Care (science) they were both really good courses and you got to do loads of hands on practical work with all different animals like farm animals, reptiles, dogs etc. The National Diploma is more science based but there is also a National Certificate which is more practical and I know some of the girls I went to college with are now Vet nurses. The best days of my life (so far :) ) were spent at college, its great because if you dont live near one you can always live there in hostels, the social life was fantastic :D . If you want any info let me know, the one I went to is in hampshire but they have them all over. One word of advice though, if you want to earn loads of cash dont even think about working with animals :( unfortunately it isnt where the money is, after 3 years at agricultural college im now qualified as a financial adviser because I couldnt afford to live in the south and work with animals :(
But dont let me put you off :)
Claire