• Course Level:Level 2

    Course Duration:1 Year

    Programme Aims

    The course aims to provide you with a firm foundation in the broad range of skills required to meet the changing needs of the animal care industry. It also encourages you to develop skills and personal qualities which will equip you for working life or to continue training.
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    Entry Requirements

    It is essential that your Initial Assessment results show that you are working towards Level 1. You will also need to have achieved one of the following:

    •   4 GCSEs at grades A-D, including English, Maths and Science
    •   GNVQ Foundation
    •   NVQ Level 1 or equivalent

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    Course Structure

    You will learn through a programme of lectures, practical instruction, group discussion, individual or group assignments and work-based learning. There will also be study visits to local animal collections and welfare organisations. A variety of animal care related subjects are studied together with functional skills at an appropriate level. In addition, there will be a period of work-based learning and an opportunity to choose from optional units.

    Our specialist resources provide an ideal environment for study. These include the Animal Care Centre, which houses a wide range of animal species in a tropical house, a mammal house, an invertebrate house, an aquarium and an aviary, as well as a grooming parlour, science laboratories, college farm, stables and kennels.
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    What you will study

    Students will study a range of subjects which may include:
    • Animal biology
    • Animal behaviour and handling
    • Animal feeding and accommodation
    • Animal health and welfare
    • Animal nursing
    • Care of exotics
    • Horse care
    • Work experience
    In addition, you will study a range of additional qualifications such as the Certificate in Work-Based Animal Care and other essential functional skills (communication, numeracy and IT). These qualifications will help you to maximise your chances of a successful career in the animal care sector.
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    Assessment

    Your progress will be monitored by continuous assessment using a variety of methods. These include:
    • Case studies
    • Debates
    • Open/closed book tests
    • Practical sessions
    • Simulated work
    • Work-based learning provider reports
    • Written assignments
    Successful learners will be graded at Pass, Merit or Distinction.
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    Progression

    Successful learners may want to continue training - and providing theymeet the other netry requirements - may progress onto a suitable Level 3 qualification such as the Extended Diploma in Animal Management. Career opportunities are available in a wide range of animal care related industries such as zoos, kennels, catteries, pet shops, welfare organisations, sanctuaries and wildlife parks.
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