Animal Care
BTEC Level 2 Technical Diploma in Animal Care
This course is designed for individuals who are interested in working in the animal industry and want to learn about the basic care and management of animals.
Is this course right for me?
You will spend time at the Withybush Animal Centre where you will learn how to care for a wide range of animals including companion and exotic species. You will learn using textbooks, reference books and the internet as well as undertaking practical tasks and attending lectures and demonstrations to gain a thorough understanding of the topics being studied.
This course is based on the main college campus, at the John Burns Centre for Learning, Withybush and at Willhome Farm Barn. Transport to and from the John Burns Centre for Learning is via shuttle bus from the main College campus. Learners will spend the whole day on a site. Visits to Willhome Farm Barn will take place at prearranged dates and learners will be transported there on college minibuses.
As part of the course you will be able to undertake two weeks commercial experience in a variety of work placements equipping you with valuable experience and insight into the industry.
To undertake this course you will need to be caring, responsible and be able to work individually and as part of a group.
What are the entry requirements?
- Three GCSEs at grade D or above (may include one relevant equivalent) to include English Language/First Language Welsh and Mathematics/Numeracy/Science
- Each application is considered on individual merit
- Entry is subject to attending a course information session or informal interview
Current student - what are the entry requirements?
- Successful completion of relevant Level 1 programme with a merit grade or above in addition to a successful decision from progression board meeting
What will I learn?
Units studied will include:
- Practical animal health
- Introduction to animal biology and health
- Animal care work placement
- Animal welfare
- Animal behaviour assessment and safe handling
- Feeding, accommodating and moving animals
In your practical sessions you will learn how to handle, health check and feed a range of animals, as well as clean and maintain their housing.
Your theory sessions will include topics such as learning about the biology of the animals, diseases, animal first aid, accommodation design and animal welfare.
In addition you will learn out about the landbased/animal care industry and undertake work placement.
You will also be expected to attend regular tutorials.
Will I need to study additional English & Maths skills?
- the course you are taking at College
- what grades you gained in your GCSE Maths and/or English Language
If you are studying a construction/trade course (brickwork, carpentry, electrical or plumbing):
- Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications
All other courses:
- Wales Essential Skills Toolkit (WEST) in upskilling / Lessons in Financial Education
- A one year GCSE resit course in required subject/s
- A one or two year pre-GCSE upskilling course
- A one year GCSE START upskilling course
Can I do this course in Welsh?
Learners have the option to complete course assessment/assignments or elements of the course through the medium of Welsh or bilingually. Visit our Welsh Language in the College page to find out what else is available to you.
How will I be assessed?
- Continuous assessment during the course
- Practical assessment during the course
- Portfolio of evidence
- Assignment work
- Written examination
What can I do next?
This course can lead to numerous career opportunities including: Kennel Worker, Dog Trainer, Pet Groomer, Dog Handler, Countryside Ranger, Animal Welfare Officer, Animal Care / Rescue Centre Worker, Pet Sitter, Pet Shop Assistant, Veterinary Receptionist.
This course will provide you with the relevant knowledge to progress towards employment in areas such as veterinary nursing, kennel/cattery work, zoo keeping, farm/park work and animal grooming etc.
On completion of the course students could progress to the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management.
Do I need to bring/buy any equipment?
- Stationery - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course
- Text books - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course, most text books are available to loan from the college library or online libraries
- It is recommended that your Tetanus vaccination and any other appropriate vaccinations are up to date before commencing work with animals or in the countryside
- Animal Care/Management clothing to include waterproof clothing (dark colours) and steel toe cap boots/wellies
- You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page
Any costs above are approximate and may change.
Are there any additional costs?
- No tuition fee
- We are waiving the Administration Fee for the academic year 2024/25
- You will need to pay a £35 animal workshop fee each year before you start the course
- You can rent a locker for £10 per year this will be refunded if the locker remains undamaged and keys are returned
- You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page
Any costs above are approximate and may change.
Additional information
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Online Learning Elements? | Yes |
Sports Academy: While on this course you may be able to join our Sports Academy, if you have a talent for sport, find out what we offer on our Sports Academy page.