Land-based Studies (Animal Care)
Land-based Studies (Animal Care)
BTEC Level 1 Diploma in Land-based Studies
This course is designed for individuals who want to develop their skills and knowledge to allow them to work with animals in the future.
Is this course right for me?
To undertake this course you will need a keen interest in working in the animal industry and learning the basics of caring for a variety of different animals.
This course is based on the main college campus and at the John Burns Centre for Learning, Withybush. 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.
To undertake this course you will need to be caring, responsible and able to work individually and as part of a group.
What are the entry requirements?
- One GCSE at grade D or above to include English Language/English Literature/First Language Welsh or Mathematics/Numeracy
- 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 programme (including skills) and decision from progression board meeting
What will I learn?
You will spend time learning about the health and well-being of animals as well as how to prepare and maintain animal accommodation. You will learn by undertaking practical tasks, attending lectures and demonstrations as well as using textbooks, reference books and the internet.
Units to be studies:
- Being organised
- Developing a personal progression plan
- Working with others
- Research a topic
- Developing estate maintenance skills
- Maintain the health of animals
- Finding out about the land-based sector
- Caring for and feeding animals
- Moving and accommodating animals
- Growing plants
- Aquatics
As part of the course you will also develop skills in problem solving, personal thinking, communication and working with others which are transferable to whichever course you decide to pursue in the future.
Learners also receive timetabled tutorials from their Course Tutor.
Will I need to study additional English & Maths skills?
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.
If you are studying a Workbased qualification:
- Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications, for Progression pathway programmes within the Built Environment Faculty only
All other courses:
- Upskilling Destination Programme – an hour and half session a week developing essential research skills, critical thinking, and academic writing techniques, supporting literacy, numeracy, digital literacy and employability skills
If you are studying a Workbased qualification:
- Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications, for Progression pathway programmes within the Built Environment Faculty only
All other courses and those who have progressed through the internal progression route:
- A one year GCSE Resit Programme in GCSE Mathematics Intermediate Tier (Welsh or English medium) / GCSE English Language
If you are studying a Workbased qualification:
- Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications, for Progression pathway programmes within the Built Environment Faculty only
All other courses and those who have progressed through the internal progression route:
- A one or two year pre-GCSE upskilling course in required subject/s – The priority of this programme (Foundation Maths for Mathematics pathway) is to build fundamental skill and knowledge, to prepare learners for progression onto the one-year, intermediate tier resit programme.
If you are studying a Workbased qualification:
- Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications, for Progression pathway programmes within the Built Environment Faculty only
All other courses:
- A one year pre-GCSE upskilling course in mathematics – The priority of this programme is to build fundamental skill and knowledge, to prepare learners for progression to the Foundation Maths programme.
If you are studying a Workbased qualification:
- Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications
All other courses:
- Upskilling Destination Programme – an hour and half session a week developing essential research skills, critical thinking, and academic writing techniques, supporting literacy, numeracy, digital literacy and employability skills
- A one year GCSE resit course in required subject/s
- Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications, for Progression pathway programmes within the Built Environment Faculty only
For English:
- A one or two year pre-GCSE upskilling course in required subject/s
- Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications, for Progression pathway programmes within the Built Environment Faculty only
For Maths:
- A one year GCSE resit course in required subject/s
- Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications, for Progression pathway programmes within the Built Environment Faculty only
- A two year pre-GCSE upskilling course in required subject/s
- Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications, for Progression pathway programmes within the Built Environment Faculty only
Learners studying on a Jobs Growth Wales (JGW+) programme will be timetabled into literacy and numeracy sessions. To discuss the opportunity of attending a GCSE resit programme, in addition to their JGW+ timetable, please contact skills@pembrokeshire.ac.uk
Can I do this course in Welsh?
How will I be assessed?
- Continuous assessment during the course
- Practical assessment during the course
- Portfolio of evidence
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, Horse Riding Instructor, Pet Shop Assistant, Veterinary Receptionist.
Do I need to bring/buy any equipment?
- Stationery - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course
- It would be beneficial, but not essential, to bring your own device/laptop to support your studies
- 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 for first year students - £20
- 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 2025/26
- 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
| Level: | |
|---|---|
| Mode: | |
| Duration: | 1 year |
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.
