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Pembrokeshire College, Merlins Bridge, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, SA61 1SZ

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Animal Care

Animal Care

Rabbit being held in hands.

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.

LEARNERS:
ID: 1389

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 Folly Farm. Transport to and from the John Burns Centre for Learning and Folly Farm is via shuttle bus from the main College campus. Learners will spend the whole day on a site.

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.

  • 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
  • Successful completion of relevant Level 1 programme with a merit grade or above in addition to a successful decision from progression board meeting

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.

You may need to study an additional skills course depending on:
  • the course you are taking at College
  • what grades you gained in your GCSE Maths and/or English Language
Click below to find out what skills course you may be taking at College

Learners are able to complete either the full qualification or certain units or elements through the medium of Welsh/bilingually. Visit our Welsh Language in the College page to find out what else is available to you.

  • Continuous assessment during the course
  • Practical assessment during the course
  • Portfolio of evidence
  • Assignment work
  • Written examination

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.

  • 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
  • Ensure 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.

  • No tuition fee
  • We are waiving the Administration Fee for the academic year 2024/25
  • You will need to pay a £30 animal/countryside 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

Level:

Mode:

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.

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Last updated: 30/11/2023
Disclaimer:
The College takes all reasonable steps to provide the educational services and courses as described above. Details are correct at the time of editing but may be subject to change without prior notice. Courses will not run if student numbers are insufficient. The College has the right to refuse individuals entry to courses in certain circumstances. Prospective students may be advised of more suitable alternatives, if appropriate. The entry requirements stated are those that are normally required to undertake the programme of study.
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